Noel Gallagher Stands Firm Against BRIT Award Critics, Promises Red Carpet Confrontation
Noel Gallagher has delivered a characteristically defiant response to critics questioning his upcoming BRIT Award, declaring he will "have it out" with detractors on the red carpet at this month's Manchester ceremony.
The 58-year-old Oasis songwriter will receive the prestigious Songwriter of the Year award at the February 28 ceremony, marking the first time the BRITs have left London in their history. The decision to honour Gallagher comes just months after the triumphant conclusion of Oasis's epic Live '25 reunion tour.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Gallagher acknowledged the unconventional nature of his win, admitting: "I haven't written a song for two years. I'm not sure how I've got away with that one but I'll take it." He suggested the organisers were "desperate to get someone from Oasis up there because it's Manchester," whilst confirming his brother Liam declined to attend.
Record Sales Justify Recognition
When challenged about critics questioning his eligibility, Gallagher pointed to commercial success as vindication. "We sold a million records last year. Didn't even get off the couch and I'm not sure there's a songwriter that can match that," he stated with typical Manchester swagger.
The musician issued a direct challenge to his detractors: "If anybody's got a problem with it, meet me there. We'll have it out on the red carpet." He particularly targeted modern songwriting collaboratives, dismissing "wet-wipe songwriting teams, all 11 of them" who "want to write a song between the lot of them."
Three Decades of British Musical Heritage
BRIT Awards Committee Chair Stacey Tang praised Gallagher's enduring contribution to British culture, stating: "For more than three decades, Noel has crafted songs that have become part of our collective story. His songs have soundtracked memories for multiple generations and defined the spirit of British music globally."
This recognition adds to Gallagher's impressive accolades, including the 2013 Ivor Novella Outstanding Song Collection Award. Previous BRIT Songwriter of the Year winners include Ed Sheeran, Kid Harpoon, Raye and Charli XCX.
The ceremony, hosted by Jack Whitehall at Manchester's Co-op Live, will feature trophies designed by acclaimed Manchester-born designer Matthew Williamson. Whilst Noel and Liam won't reunite at the BRITs, both brothers are expected at Wembley on March 22 when Manchester City face Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final.
The broadcast promises to celebrate British musical excellence whilst showcasing Manchester's cultural significance beyond the capital's traditional dominance.