Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan recently addressed fans and critics on his social media. He said that he was grateful that the band is playing regularly and their new album, Aghori Mhori Mei has been well-received. He revealed how he had been criticized for making new music. He wrote:
“Firstly, I am grateful that on this beautiful and warm day that the band is a happy place to be, we are playing often, and our new album has been well-received For countless times I was told by many in the music business that my efforts towards making new music was a waste. Most particularly if that music was not ‘on brand’ (whatever the heck that means?)”
He also said that he is grateful to have been indulged in making new music for almost four decades. He wrote:
“So I guess we are ‘on brand’ now? Lol Our music is OUR music It’s like someone telling you your face is not your face And whether you have been there from the beginning or are a new fan we are grateful to have been thus indulged to make new music for 36 years”
Corgan feels that the opportunity he got to make new music is a blessing, and thanked the fans. He wrote:
“That opportunity is an absolute blessing so I want to thank you It is hard to convey simple humility on a forum where such a thing is in short supply but that’s the place I mean it from Thank you friends, thank you family, thank you God For every step has brought us ‘here’ and we know not where we go tomorrow (Besides of course, Cincinnati with Green Dav and Rancid)”
The Smashing Pumpkins have just dropped a surprise new album titled Aghori Mhori Mei, marking their 13th studio effort and the follow-up to last year’s Atum: A Rock Opera in Three Acts. The 10-track album, clocking in at around 45 minutes has delighted Smashing Pumpkins fans.
As the reviews start rolling in, Corgan has always been clear that his goal is to make art that resonates deeply with those who love all eras of The Smashing Pumpkins, not necessarily to chase chart success.
For Billy Corgan, success isn’t about striking gold with the pop world, though the band did that for a few years in the 90’s. However, it’s about staying true to the band’s core brand. This time around, Aghori Mhori Mei is an intriguing artistic statement, offering something rocking and gratifying for those who have stuck with the band through all its phases and just wanted to hear guitars again.
Fans have expressed frustration in the past when the band’s projects felt unfinished, or when new directions were abandoned too quickly. But with this latest release, there’s a sense of completion and satisfaction. The Smashing Pumpkins are still crushing it live, steadily putting out new music, and, most importantly, Corgan seems content. In a music scene where many of his peers have struggled to find their happy ending, it’s heartening to see Billy Corgan thriving and continuing to create on his terms.
