The Smashing Pumpkins’ new guitarist, Kiki Wong, has shared her excitement about playing her first shows with the band. The band announced Wong as their new guitarist in April after receiving over 10,000 public applications for the role. Wong came out on top after auditioning in person in Los Angeles in March. Longtime guitarist Jeff Schroeder had announced he was leaving the band last October.
The band kicked off their joint UK tour with Weezer in Birmingham on June 7, and Wong played her first full show with the band. The set included a cover of U2’s ‘Zoo Station.’ Wong shared her thoughts about the experience on Instagram, writing “What an absolute mind-blowing experience it was.” She added, “It was such an honor to play my first arena on guitar with such an incredible group of musicians.”
Wong is a veteran session musician and high-profile YouTuber. She played with Taylor Swift at the 2014 VMA’s, Usher at CBS’s Fashion Rocks Fall 2014, and was the lead guitarist for Bret Michaels in a commercial for Nissan. She has also performed with rock bands Nylon Pink, Hellfire Heart, and currently, Vigil of War.
The band’s frontman Billy Corgan has said, “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.” Wong added, “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 Smashing Pumpkins are currently touring the UK with Weezer, and will be playing many shows over the summer. Wong expressed her excitement for the opportunity to play alongside some of rock’s greatest and most influential musicians of all time. The band has been busy with touring in 2024 and are excited to see all their fans this summer
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