March 2, 2009

China Cancels Oasis Gigs Over “Free Tibet” Show

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Wow, China never forgets, huh. Beatlesy British combo Oasis have had their first ever shows in the People’s Republic of China canceled after the Chinese government revoked their performance licenses. The band’s management issued a statement saying the decision “has left both Oasis and the promoters bewildered.” But, according to Billboard magazine, band member Noel Gallagher had a deep, dark secret:

According to the promoters, officials within the Chinese Ministry of Culture only recently discovered that Noel Gallagher appeared at a Free Tibet benefit concert on Randall’s Island in New York City in 1997. Consequently, Oasis is considered unsuitable to perform in the People’s Republic of China during its 60th anniversary year.

If only it was just their 59th, right?

After the jump, a video from the band’s most recent album, the underrated Dig Out Your Soul.

Oasis – “The Shock of the Lightning”

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You just sent an incredible message: that quality journalism doesn't have to answer to advertisers, billionaires, or hedge funds; that newsrooms can eke out an existence thanks primarily to the generosity of its readers. That's so powerful. Especially during what's been called a "media extinction event" when those looking to make a profit from the news pull back, the Mother Jones community steps in.

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