Billy Corgan is seemingly upset that Smashing Pumpkins aren’t considered EMO. Corgan recently took to his Instagram story section, posting a photo of the book “Where Are Your Boys Tonight” by author Chris Payne, to express his feelings about his band never being acknowledged for their impact on the emo genre.
“Funny how these books keep writing SP out of history when the guy on the cover started his band because of SP,” he wrote. The “guy on the cover” that he is referring to is Gerard Way, the lead singer and co-founder of the band My Chemical Romance.
It is noted that Way has never been shy about his love of Billy Corgan and the Smashing Pumpkins, and has stated multiple times that they are one of his biggest musical influences. The two have also been friends for a number of years.
Few years back, speaking of his move to California, Way credited Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan for offering guidance and support.
“He’s so smart, and he’s said so much to me over the years in the times that I’ve hung out with him,” said Way. “He’s just been really good to me. And when I moved to LA, he would go to vintage rooms with me to try out amps, [because] I was looking for a heavier sound. He would go and try the stuff out with me. But he’s given me advice over the years. Some of it I wasn’t ready to hear, some of it I had to find out for myself.”
Billy Corgan in Smashing Pumpkins
The Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan has certainly cemented his legacy that defies the ordinary rock and roll narrative. He burst onto the alternative rock scene in the early 90s and his unique vision with unwavering dedication transformed the band into a powerhouse of the grunge era.
Right from the start, Billy Corgan’s distinctive voice and poetic lyrics made the band stand out. Their debut album, Gish, hinted at what was about to come. It was Siamese Dream that really put them on the map. Meanwhile, tracks like “Today” and “Disarm” became anthems, resonating the fans and critics.
Corgan’s relentless pursuit of artistic authenticity often led him to clash with the conventional music industry. He had a clear vision and his determination helped the band push boundaries.
Corgan’s journey with The Smashing Pumpkins hasn’t been smoth. Line-up changes, internal conflicts and the evolving music landscape posed massive challenges for him. However, his resilience kept the band going ahead. In recent years, the band’s revival with albums like Shiny and Oh So Bright and Cyr proved that Corgan’s creative fire is far from over.
In the history of rock music, Corgan and The Smashing Pumpkins remain a true example of showing perseverance and the enduring spirit of artistic innovation. It has been been a journey that continues to inspire fans across generations.