Breaking News: Kiki Wong Joins The Smashing Pumpkins as New Touring Guitarist
Los Angeles-based guitarist Kiki Wong has been announced as the new touring guitarist for the iconic rock band Smashing Pumpkins. This appointment follows an open audition process that attracted an astounding 10,000 applications from around the world. Wong, known for her work with LA rockers Vigil Of War, brings her impressive skills to the band’s lineup, also joining the likes of Billy Corgan, Jimmy Chamberlin, and James Iha. The Smashing Pumpkins’ frontman, Billy Corgan, expressed his excitement, stating, “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”.
Key Points:
- Guitarist: Kiki Wong
- Background: Los Angeles-based, previously with Vigil Of War
- Audition Process: Over 10,000 applicants
- Band Lineup: Billy Corgan, Jimmy Chamberlin, James Iha, Jack Bates, Katie Cole
- Wong’s Reaction: “Beyond honored and humbled”
- Musical Journey: From playing metal guitar in her bedroom to sharing the stage with rock legends
Who Is Kiki Wong?
Kiki Wong, a Los Angeles-based guitarist, gained recognition as a member of the rock band Vigil Of War. Her impressive resume includes collaborations with artists like Taylor Swift and also Bret Michaels. Wong’s massive online following—674,000 followers on Instagram—speaks to her influence in the music world.
Billy Corgan’s Statement:
Frontman Billy Corgan expressed his excitement about Wong’s addition to the band: “Reviewing the work of these incredible musicians was a herculean, albeit worthy effort. I was a fan of Kiki’s before she submitted her name for consideration, 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!”.
Kiki Wong now joins the band’s touring lineup alongside Billy Corgan, Jimmy Chamberlin, and James Iha. Fans eagerly await the upcoming European tour. where they’ll witness Wong’s guitar prowess in action. As the band prepares to hit the stage. Wong’s journey from a 15-year-old metal guitarist in her bedroom to a member of The Smashing Pumpkins also serves as an inspiring testament to hard work and perseverance.
Wong’s journey from a 15-year-old metal guitarist to joining the legendary Smashing Pumpkins is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and also the power of dreams. As she steps into this new role, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing her electrifying performances on the upcoming stadium tour alongside Green Day and Rancid. Let the music roar!
