The Smashing Pumpkins’ Billy Corgan was recently interviewed by the Toronto Sun, initially about wrestling. Corgan shared several examples concerning the band and what he has been going through while discussing his passion in wrestling. He was upset: “Like a musician in popular culture, there’s always the sense that the thing can kind of end long before you’re ready to call it quits because of a disinterested public or somebody else with their hands on the lever of something.” He defines who controls the band, having been a member for almost 30 years. He stated:
“Just recently, I was talking about a previous Smashing Pumpkins record that we’re trying to re-release. Normally, I have complete control over everything that happens with the band, including our releases, scheduling, and everything.” Apparently, things don’t always go as planned for Corgan. He goes on to say: “Yet here I am, still negotiating with something from my past and with a stranger in an office who probably doesn’t care what the band has or hasn’t accomplished.” You know, you’re still dealing with circumstances beyond your control.”
While he appears to be fed up and tired of what has happened to him and the band, a March interview suggests that this may not be the case. Given the varying nature of the music and the listener, he observes: “[…] Most folks have no idea what the records are about. They’re preoccupied with their favorite song, drum solo, or whatever. It’s perfectly fine. The last 20 years of social media have taught me that everyone has their own level of engagement, and that any engagement is wonderful. So if someone enjoys a song, that’s fantastic. If someone wants to know every guitar pedal and what these lyrics signify, that’s OK. It makes no difference to me.[…]” The band has been making music since 1988 and released their 12th studio album, ‘Atum,’ on January 31st. You can hear the album here.