Which Songs Did Liam Write As You Were? A Deep Dive
Liam Gallagher’s debut solo album, As You Were, was a significant moment in his career. Freed from the constraints of Oasis and Beady Eye, Liam crafted an album that resonated deeply with fans, showcasing a vulnerability and renewed creative energy. But just how involved was he in the songwriting process? This article explores the songs Liam Gallagher wrote for As You Were, providing a detailed analysis and context for each track. This is more than just a listing; it’s an exploration into the heart and soul of Liam’s comeback.
The Genesis of As You Were: A New Beginning
The release of As You Were in 2017 marked a definitive point in Liam Gallagher’s solo journey. After the disbandment of Beady Eye, many wondered what direction his music would take. The album’s title itself, As You Were, served as a statement, a declaration of Liam staying true to himself and his musical roots. The songwriting process, therefore, was crucial in shaping this new identity. While Liam had always been a vocalist and a presence, his songwriting contributions were sometimes overshadowed by Noel’s dominant role in Oasis. As You Were provided an opportunity for Liam to step into the spotlight as a songwriter in his own right.
The Songwriting Collaborations: Who Helped Liam?
While As You Were is largely seen as a Liam Gallagher album, it’s important to acknowledge the collaborative effort that went into creating the music. Liam didn’t write all of the songs entirely on his own. He worked with several co-writers and producers who helped bring his ideas to life. This collaborative approach is common in the music industry, especially when artists are exploring new sounds or styles. Understanding who Liam worked with is key to fully appreciating the album.
Greg Kurstin: The Producer’s Touch
One of the most significant collaborators on As You Were was Greg Kurstin, a renowned producer known for his work with artists like Adele and Foo Fighters. Kurstin co-wrote and produced several tracks on the album, bringing a polished and modern sound to Liam’s rock-and-roll sensibilities. His influence is undeniable, helping Liam to navigate the transition into a solo career.
Andrew Wyatt: A Key Creative Partnership
Andrew Wyatt was another key collaborator, co-writing several tracks with Liam. Wyatt brought a sophisticated musicality to the project, contributing to the album’s diverse soundscape. The partnership with Wyatt proved to be crucial in shaping the album’s sonic identity.
Liam’s Songwriting Contributions: A Track-by-Track Breakdown
Now, let’s delve into the specific songs on As You Were and identify those where Liam Gallagher had a direct songwriting credit. This is where we get to the core of the article: the songs Liam wrote.
“Wall of Glass”: Setting the Tone
“Wall of Glass” was the lead single from As You Were and a powerful introduction to Liam’s solo work. Liam Gallagher is credited as a co-writer on this track, alongside Greg Kurstin and Andrew Wyatt. The song’s raw energy and anthemic chorus instantly grabbed the attention of fans and critics alike, showcasing a return to form. The writing process involved crafting the lyrics with a specific purpose.
“Paper Crown”: A Personal Reflection
“Paper Crown” is another song where Liam Gallagher is listed as a co-writer. It explores themes of vulnerability and personal reflection. The lyrics provide insight into Liam’s mindset during that time, and the songwriting team brought this emotion to life.
“Chinatown”: A Melodic Journey
“Chinatown” offers a more melodic and introspective side of the album. This track also lists Liam as a co-writer, working alongside Andrew Wyatt. It demonstrates Liam’s ability to explore different sonic textures and songwriting styles.
“For What It’s Worth”: A Deep Dive
“For What It’s Worth” is a standout track on the album and is a testament to Liam’s songwriting capabilities. Liam takes full credit as a co-writer on this track, alongside Dan Grech-Marguerat and Simon Aldred. The song is a poignant and reflective ballad, showcasing a more introspective side of Liam.
“You Better Run”: High-Energy Rock
“You Better Run” is a high-energy rock track. Liam is credited as a co-writer alongside Greg Kurstin and Andrew Wyatt. This track further highlights the collaborative effort that went into creating the album.
Beyond the Credits: The “Liam-ness” of the Songs
While knowing the songwriting credits is important, it’s equally crucial to understand how Liam’s personality and artistic vision shaped the album, regardless of the co-writer. The “Liam-ness” of the songs, the essence of his voice, his lyrical themes, and his overall musical style, are what make As You Were a distinctly Liam Gallagher album. This goes beyond just who wrote the words.
The Impact of As You Were: A Legacy Reborn
As You Were was a critical and commercial success, proving that Liam Gallagher could thrive as a solo artist. The album’s success was a testament to his enduring appeal and his ability to connect with audiences. It reignited his career and paved the way for further solo releases.
The Evolution of Liam’s Songwriting: Looking Forward
The songwriting process for As You Were marked an important step in Liam’s career. It showcased his willingness to collaborate and explore new creative avenues. Subsequent albums have further developed his songwriting skills, solidifying his position as a respected solo artist. The future looks bright for Liam Gallagher.
Frequently Asked Questions: Unveiling More Details
What inspired Liam’s songwriting on As You Were? Liam drew inspiration from a range of sources, including his personal experiences, his musical influences, and his desire to connect with his fans on a deeper level.
How did the collaboration with Greg Kurstin affect the album’s sound? Greg Kurstin’s production brought a modern and polished sound to the album, complementing Liam’s raw vocals and rock-and-roll sensibilities. His input was critical.
Did Noel Gallagher have any involvement in the creation of As You Were? No, Noel Gallagher was not involved in the creation of As You Were. The album was a purely solo project for Liam.
How did As You Were differ from Liam’s work with Oasis? As You Were allowed Liam to explore a more personal and vulnerable side of his songwriting. The album also features a more diverse range of musical styles compared to some of Oasis’s earlier work.
What is Liam Gallagher’s favorite song from As You Were? While it’s impossible to definitively know Liam’s favorite, he has spoken positively about several tracks, highlighting the importance of the album to him.
Conclusion: The Songs, the Man, and the Music
In conclusion, As You Were was a pivotal moment in Liam Gallagher’s career, showcasing his songwriting talents and his ability to connect with audiences. While the album was a collaborative effort, Liam’s contributions, both as a co-writer and as the driving force behind the album’s vision, are undeniable. The songs he wrote, along with his unique vocal style and lyrical content, solidified his place as a solo artist. As You Were is more than just an album; it’s a testament to Liam’s resilience, his artistic growth, and his enduring connection with his fans. It’s a journey into the heart of Liam Gallagher, and the music speaks volumes.