Billy Corgan Reconciles With D’arcy Wretzky, Fuels Reunion Hopes: Smashing Pumpkins frontman discusses opening line of communication with former bassist.
We reported recently that a long-hoped for reunion of the classic Smashing Pumpkins lineup, once thought unthinkable, is gaining traction.
And frontman/master contrarian Billy Corgan added more fuel to the reunion fire, as first reported by Alternative Nation.
Corgan discussed communicating with Wretzky in a video on the band’s Facebook page, saying:
“I don’t want people speculating about something that’s got nothing to do with what’s going on. First off, we’re back in contact again, the band. I’ve been in communication with D’arcy for the first time in 16 or 17 years, it’s awesome to have my friend back. So we’re all in communication, which as I said not too long ago, my primary interest in the old band was us having good relationships again…so maybe that’s fueling some of the rumors.”
Click here for Albums Revisited: Smashing Pumpkins ‘Gish’ Turns 25
“So of course when you get to the point where you’re in communication, and the relationships are good again, and it’s a good vibe, you, yourself, and people around you who know what’s going on, start saying: ‘Is the band going to get back together?’ We’re not at that point, and I think that’s a good thing. We’re not rushing to something, we have to repair some things between us, and see what’s out there for us, if those opportunities are even there.”
“We’re not interested, nor have we ever been interested, in just going out to play because there’s a big stack of money there. Of course the business is part of what goes on, but the band was never about that, and if the band should ever be again in that form, in some iteration, obviously because there’s other people involved, because it would be about the music. So speculate away, because that’s from me, not an anonymous source.”
Morgan wrapped up his thoughts adding, “There’s excitement there that surrounds the idea that maybe there’s the possibility that we will get back together, but until you here it coming from my mouth that the band is getting back together and we will play dates, my primary concern is the family relationships of the band that are ultimately so much more important. I can tell you without a doubt that if that band ever gets back on stage, it will be about music, it will be about playing music that fans love, and that we love.”
So while fan can still proceed with caution, everything looks pointed to a reunion: still don’t believe it? An industry insider has said Corgan is already looking to book a reunion tour. And just last month, Corgan hinted at something big on the horizon via another Facebook video, noting: “There’s some big stuff happening. We’re making plans. I can’t give that away, but it’s going to be interesting.”
The original Pumpkin lineup were always an easily combustible unit, easy to fracture and ultimately done in by all the classic miscommunication and ego driven issues that have destroyed many a rock band. But even a brief reunion, and a chance for new music, would be a bittersweet moment for fans and band alike. Given his recent on-stage reconciliation with James Iha and drummer Jimmy Chamberlain back in the fold, things are looking good. Well keep you posted on any updates.
You can watch the full Facebook video below: