After sifting through more than 10,000 applications during their extensive quest for a new guitarist, the Smashing Pumpkins revealed their latest addition to the band on Friday: the social media sensation guitarist, Kiki Wong.
Back in January, the Pumpkins launched an open audition to fill the void left by the departure of guitarist Jeff Schroeder, who had been part of Billy Corgan’s ensemble for a remarkable 16 years.
Merely two weeks later, the band announced the overwhelming influx of applications, necessitating “eight individuals working tirelessly to meticulously assess each submission.”
“Reviewing the work of these incredible musicians was a herculean, albeit worthy effort. First off, I really want to thank everyone who submitted materials for consideration,” Corgan said in a statement Friday.
“It wasn’t an easy decision with how much great guitar playing we were lucky enough to hear and see over the past few months. I was a fan of Kiki’s before she submitted her name to be considered — and it’s great that someone of her acumen will be part of our touring family.”
The Smashing Pumpkins didn’t stumble upon their latest recruit by chance. Formerly part of the Los Angeles-based band Vigil of War, Wong already boasted a substantial online presence with approximately 675,000 followers on Instagram and over 1.3 million fans on TikTok prior to joining the Pumpkins.
Wong added,
“It’s been an absolute wild ride, but I am beyond honored and humbled to be chosen to perform alongside some of rock’s greatest and most influential musicians of all time.
I never thought little ole 15-year-old me playing metal guitar in my bedroom would amount to this moment. It goes to show hard work and perseverance truly pays off if you’re willing to push through the tough stuff, so never lose hope out there.”
Wong is anticipated to make her inaugural appearance with the band this summer as the Pumpkins, featuring Corgan, Wong, founding members James Iha and Jimmy Chamberlin, keyboardist Katie Cole, and bassist Jack Bates, son of Joy Division/New Order’s Peter Hook, gear up for an extensive series of live performances.
Their schedule commences with a European tour alongside Weezer, commencing on June 7 in Birmingham, England.
Later in July, they’ll head back to North America for the Saviors stadium tour, sharing the stage with Green Day, Rancid, and the Linda Lindas.
