After putting out an open audition call to replace outgoing guitarist Jeff Schroeder, The Smashing Pumpkins have named Kiki Wong as his replacement. Wong, who is currently in Vigil of War, previously played with Taylor Swift, Usher and Bret Michaels along with Nylon Pink and Hellfire Heart.
“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,” said Wong. “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!”
Schroeder announced he was leaving the band last October after 16 years. The guitarist appeared on five Pumpkins albums between 2007 and 2021. Subsequently, the Pumpkins announced an open audition where they encouraged players to submit applications for the role. More than 10,000 people sent in material in hopes of landing dream position with the Chicago alt-rock veterans.
“Reviewing the work of these incredible musicians was a herculean, albeit worthy effort,” frontman Billy Corgan said. “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!”
This summer, the Pumpkins are playing arena and headliner festival dates in Europe as well as North American stadium shows with Green Day. They’ll also do their own solo gig in between the latter tour.
