THE SMASHING PUMPKINS ANNOUNCE NEW GUITARIST KIKI WONG
The veteran guitarist was chosen after a public call out saw over 10,000 people apply for the gig.
Image via @itkikiwong (Facebook)
The Smashing Pumpkins have finally found their new touring guitarist. After an exhaustive search that saw over 10,000 people apply for the prestigious role, Kiki Wong got the green light from Billy Corgan and co.
Wong is a veteran shredder who plays with LA rock outfit Vigil of War but is best known for the incredible metal covers she posts on social media. She has a massive TikTok following, having garnered over 12.2 million likes from her 1.3 million followers.
In a statement about Wong’s selection as the new touring guitarist for the Pumpkins, Corgan had this to say:
“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.
“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.
“I can’t wait to hit the road with Kiki as part of our mad circus. It’s definitely an exciting moment for The Smashing Pumpkins to be this busy with touring in 2024. We’ll see you all this summer!”
Wong also released a statement about being chosen as the band’s touring guitarist.
“It’s been an absolute wild ride, but I am beyond honoured 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.
“I am so grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to share the stage with the legendary Smashing Pumpkins!”
The recruitment of Wong comes after guitarist Jeff Schroeder, who joined the band in 2006, parted ways with the Pumpkins last year. Wong will join bassist Jack Bates and multi-instrumentalist Katie Cole as part of the Pumpkins touring setup but will not be an official member of the group, which consists of originals Corgan, James Iha, and Jimmy Chamberlin.
Wong’s first taste as a Pumpkin will come this June when the band embarks on a 22-date tour of Europe, playing alongside Weezer, Interpol and Tom Morello. The band then heads back to the States for a monster 35-date tour that includes gigs with Green Day, The Glorious Sons and Pvris, along with several festivals.
You can find out all the details about The Smashing Pumpkins’ upcoming tours by visiting smashingpumpkins.com.
