The Smashing Pumpkins have announced their new guitarist, after receiving more than 10,000 applications.
An application for the role was opened by frontman Billy Corgan, set up via the Smashing Pumpkins's social media pages, which generated plenty of interest.
Having narrowed down the applications, the band held an audition with a group of finalists in LA last month, before eventually settling on veteran session musician and YouTube sensation Kiki Wong as their new guitarist.
Wong will take up the role vacated by former guitarist Jeff Schroeder whose departure was confirmed last October after 16 years.
The news you have been waiting for has finally arrived!
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— The Smashing Pumpkins (@SmashingPumpkin) April 26, 2024
Reacting to her selection, Kiki Wong who boasts 210,000 subscribers on YouTube, 1.3 million TikTok followers, as well as 667K Instagram followers, had this to say.
“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", stated Wong.
She also added, “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!".
On choosing Wong for the role of Smashing Pumpkins' guitarist, Billy Corgan also paid homage to everyone who applied for the post.
“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", he said.
He continued, "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!”.
As well as being an internet star, Kiki Wong has also performed with Taylor Swift at the 2014 VMA's and alongside Usher at CBS's Fashion Rocks Fall that same year.
She was also the lead guitarist for Bret Michaels in a Nissan advert, as well as performing for rock bands Hellfire Heart, Nylon Pink, and her current band Vigil of War.
Kiki Wong will join the Smashing Pumpkins ahead of their UK and European Tour this Summer. See all tour dates here.
