Smashing Pumpkins have announced that they have found their new guitarist.
After posting an ad on their socials back in January encouraging all guitarists to apply for the job, the band received more than 10,000 applications. Today they have revealed that Los Angeles native Kiki Wong has joined the band.
Original Pumpkins Billy Corgan, James Iha and Jimmy Chamberlain reviewed the submissions and held in-person auditions in L.A., eventually choosing Wong, who plays in rock band Vigil of War and has performed with Taylor Swift and Usher.
Wong will immediately be road-tested when the band head to Europe in June for a tour with Weezer, followed by a North American trek with Green Day in July for the pop-punk legends' Saviors Tour this summer.
In a statement, Smashing Pumpkins wrote, "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 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. I am so grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to share the stage with the legendary Smashing Pumpkins!"
See the post below.
The news you have been waiting for has finally arrived!
— The Smashing Pumpkins (@SmashingPumpkin) April 26, 2024
SP is excited to officially welcome highly-skilled veteran guitarist Kiki Wong. Kiki joins the band’s touring lineup of Billy Corgan, Jimmy Chamberlin, and James Iha, along with mainstays Jack Bates and Katie Cole. pic.twitter.com/kCh9cgPavD