Billy Corgan, frontman of the Smashing Pumpkins, has voiced his frustration at being frequently overlooked in lists celebrating the greatest guitarists of all time, stating that he feels consistently underrated by critics.
As a founding member, lead vocalist, and principal songwriter for the Smashing Pumpkins, Corgan played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of the ’90s with his unique and often aggressive guitar style. His contributions helped popularize alternative rock during the decade, with iconic tracks like “Cherub Rock” and “Tonight, Tonight” propelling the band to critical acclaim.
Despite his instrumental role in the band’s success, Corgan expressed his dissatisfaction with being excluded from many of these “greatest guitarists” rankings. “I usually don’t even make those lists,” he remarked in a recent interview. “Or they’ll put me behind somebody who I could play circles around.”
Throughout the Smashing Pumpkins’ early years, Corgan’s guitar playing was characterized by a mix of heavy distortion, reverb-drenched tones, and melodic arpeggios. His approach often set him apart from fellow guitarist James Iha, who played rhythm, while Corgan took the lead. His sound became a defining element of the band’s identity and the alternative rock genre during that era.
Corgan acknowledged the legendary status of other guitarists but expressed frustration that his own contributions are often overlooked. “I sat for hours across from Eddie Van Halen at 5150 with my jaw open, watching Eddie play,” Corgan recalled, also noting that his father was a skilled guitarist. “I’ve got no problem acknowledging some of the greatest guitar players ever.”
While guitarists from earlier decades often dominate these lists, Corgan pointed out that his contemporaries, such as Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello and Radiohead’s Jonny Greenwood, have received the recognition he feels he deserves.
The Smashing Pumpkins frontman also discussed his role in the band’s creative process, explaining that his multifaceted contributions are often underappreciated by those who rank guitarists. “They don’t want to believe one person can do all those things,” he said, referring to his hands-on approach to the band’s songwriting, production, and guitar arrangements.
Following several lineup changes and hiatuses, the Smashing Pumpkins released their latest album, Aghori Mhori Mei, in 2024. Corgan will also embark on a solo tour in December 2024, performing six dates across Australia to cap off the year.
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