July 8, 2009 9:24

'Oasis beat Blur in long-term Britpop war', claims music industry stats

PRS For Music figures claim more people listen to Noel than Damon

Photo Gallery: Oasis

Oasis have won the long-term Britpop battle with Blur, PRS For Music has claimed.

The organisation that collects royalties for songwriters, say their figures suggest despite Damon Albarn and co beating the Gallaghers to the UK Number One single spot in August 1995 – when 'Country House' outsold 'Roll With It' after they were released on the same day – it's the northern band who have enjoyed the most exposure since.

Based on PRS' research, Oasis have been listened to more than Blur over the last 14 years when both band's total listens are compared head-to-head.

As a percentage of both groups' combined total plays, the following songs have proved the most popular:

Oasis – 'Wonderwall', 68%
Oasis – 'Roll With It', 12%
Blur – 'Country House', 10%
Oasis – 'Some Might Say', 7%
Blur – 'Beetlebum', 3%

“With Blur performing some storming gigs and Oasis' back on tour it’s like the heyday of Britpop once again," explained Steve Porter, Chief Executive PRS For Music. "These new figures showing that despite Blur winning the original battle, Oasis wins long-term by number of plays. However with both bands still working and their music being widely played the battle continues.”