A MILLION WATTS OF SOUND CAN'T COMPARE
First off, Smashing Pumpkins has always been one of my favorite bands. I first heard "Drown" on the Singles movie soundtrack back in 1992, and wondered what they were about. Then Siamese Dream came out, and I fell in love with their sound. Ok...and with Billy Corgan.
Like now, I listened to all kinds of music back in high school. Even liked some R&B/Hip Hop "a la Babyface". It wasn't until the last couple years at St. Mary's, when I really listened to the music that is more along the lines of what I like today. I got into Nirvana, Soundgarden, Stone Temple Pilots, Pearl Jam and Jane's Addiction.
But there was just something unexplainable in what Smashing Pumpkins did for me. Their sound was so unique and different, especially during the time. The lyrics, the melodies, the guitar solos, and Billy's hypnotic voice. Smashing Pumpkins rocked.
Over the years of different band members, I never made it to one of their shows. So, I was devastated when they broke up...kickin' myself that I never got to see them play.
Fast forward to 2007, when I learned that Billy & Jimmy, along with new members Jeff, Lisa, and Ginger, were bringing the Pumpkins back. AND that they'd be playing a 9 day residency only a few hours away. I was DEFINITELY not going to miss them this time, and was ecstatic to get tickets for the show. Even if it was a bit of a road trip and I was going with my ex, who is actually an amazing guitarist and shares my love for SP's music.
I was pretty much in the front row so I had a really good view. It was a great show even if James Iha and D'Arcy Wretzky were no longer in the band. At least Jimmy was still on drums and of course...my, Billy was front and center, rockin' out. He is the main reason I fell in love with their music to begin with. *sigh* I can't help but find his voice so captivating.
I actually had tickets to see them again on Oct. 30 in Atlanta, but the show got canceled last minute and I couldn't make the rescheduled date. I WILL see them play again someday...VERY SOON.
Ok, so that's the background on my love for Billy and SP.
Homage to a musical visionary.
**this entry is revised from my original posting on my music blog: aptly titled, A MILLION WATTS OF SOUND. Click HERE for the original read.