In a new Instagram story Q&A, Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan confirmed a rumor that he and U2 singer Bono were the first to hear the Silverchair song “Love Your Life”.
Corgan once said about Silverchair, “In the beginning, I just viewed them as a cute teen band riding the grunge wave, then they seemed to ‘go away’ for awhile, so when I heard that they were ‘all grown up,’ I didn’t think much of it, but when I came across what they were doing, I was struck by the brilliance of it, and the honesty in it, and realized how wrong I’d been. Who wouldn’t, at such a young age, get caught up in what’s going on around you, because we all assume our influences. Daniel [Johns] had grown out of those influences and become his own man, a very special butterfly with so much to offer, and I’ve been a fan ever since.”
“Silverchair’s mature work evokes for me the best of highly melodic, emotional music with a true understanding of rock grandeur…those are rare forces, not very often put together.”
“There is only one Daniel [Johns]. He has a fragile perspective and sensitivity that he brings when he puts all the pieces together, and has the voice to evoke the sophistication of his feelings. He is a rare bird, to be treasured!”
Below are excerpts from Corgan’s recent Instagram story Q&A’s.
I read that you were one of the first (w/ Bono) to listen to Silverchair’s Love Your Life?
True story.
Should I spend $100 on a ticket to see your band at the Aragon Ballroom?
I’d stick to the prostitute. Better value return.
The Roxy (4.24.99) will forever be unbeatable in my mind. Memories from that show?
Just listened to the first 3 songs from that show yesterday. Blistering performance. Also last show of the OG lineup.
At what point did it become clear that the follow up to Adore would be a farewell?
I think it was the show at Dodger Stadium, Halloween of 98 that convinced me I needed to leave.
