Who is Oasis guitarist Gem Archer and where is he now?
GEM Archer held a pivotal role in Oasis, and his career has left an indelible mark on the music world.
Who is Oasis guitarist Gem Archer?
Gem Archer, born Colin Murray “Gem” Archer on December 7, 1966, is an English guitarist and singer.
He started his musical career with bands like The Edge and The Contenders in the early 1980s.
In the early 1990s, he formed Whirlpool, which eventually led to the creation of Heavy Stereo in 1995.
Despite Heavy Stereo’s debut album, Déjà Voodoo, not achieving major commercial success, the band garnered attention for their contribution to a Jam tribute album.
They also gained notable exposure by opening on a Paul Weller tour.
In November 1999, Gem joined Oasis as a rhythm guitarist, stepping in after the departure of Bonehead.
His role in Oasis was multifaceted; he played rhythm guitar, handled lead guitar on acoustic tracks, and contributed to songwriting.
His notable contributions included co-writing songs like Hung in a Bad Place and Love Like a Bomb.
He also played various instruments on the band’s albums.
Gem’s arrival brought a new dynamic to the band, which was reflected in the evolving sound of Oasis during his tenure.
After Oasis broke up in August 2009, Gem joined Liam Gallagher, Andy Bell, and Chris Sharrock in forming Beady Eye.
The band released two albums, Different Gear, Still Speeding and BE, before they split in October 2014.
In 2017, he rejoined Noel Gallagher, this time as the lead guitarist for Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.
Gem has also collaborated with other artists, including Paul Weller, and David Holmes.
He also has contributed to projects by Andy Bell and Noel Gallagher.
Gem played a significant role in Paul’s albums Illumination and 22 Dreams, and worked with David Holmes on the album Let’s Get Killed.
In August 2013, Gem experienced a serious accident, resulting in head trauma and a fractured skull, but recovered after medical treatment.
He was previously married to Lou and has two children, Joel and Libby.
In November 2022, he married Christine Mary Biller.
Where is Gem Archer now?
As of 2024, Gem Archer is actively involved with Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.
He joined the band as a lead guitarist in 2017 and continues to perform and contribute to their music.
Is Oasis reuniting?
Oasis might be reuniting.
Reports suggest that the Britpop legends are planning a major comeback, with a series of UK concerts slated for next summer.
The band teased their upcoming announcement on social media on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at 8 a.m.
Speculation about the venues includes high-profile locations such as Heaton Park in Manchester and Wembley Stadium in London.
The reunion marks a significant development given the longstanding feud between brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher, which had kept the band apart since their split in 2009.
As for specifics, official announcements are expected to confirm the dates and details of the tour, along with potential festival appearances like Glastonbury, which could be part of the reunion tour.