"Kiki Wong discusses her transformative audition process with the Smashing Pumpkins, detailing her adjustment to their extensive pedal collection and insights gained from Billy Corgan and James Iha."
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with a dash of grit and charm, Kiki Wong rose from her humble "bedroom guitarist" beginnings to claiming a spot as a world-touring guitarist alongside Smashing Pumpkins legends. Yet the road wasn't always smooth – unruly music biz, dedication to family, and naysayers who didn't deem her enough.
"Friend failure," Wong says, "is like a BFF who's always there, sometimes pains you, but ultimately helps you grow." And grow she did, weathering the music industry's challenges and soaring beyond expectations when she locked the gig over 9,999 other hopefuls during the Pumpkins' 2024 audition.
Since signing with the band, Wong has toured the globe supporting their latest album, Aghori Mhori Mei, and captivated audiences with her energetic performances, despite some purists calling her "too metal." Such is the life of a Pumpkin – be it Billy Corgan, James Iha, or Wong herself.
"Joining the Smashing Pumpkins," Wong shares, "has made me a more well-rounded, versatile player, with a hint of alternative music added to my distinctive sound." And though initially apprehensive about her fit with the band, Wong praises their patience and welcoming demeanor, fostering an environment where she embraced her unique sound.
As for life without the gig, Wong says she'd likely be sharing more TikTok and Instagram videos from home and indulging in mom duties – not a bad life, she admits, but one she's deeply grateful to have escaped.
"Leading the Smashing Pumpkins life has been one of the best gifts I could ask for," Wong says. "It has allowed me to evolve as a musician, expanding my knowledge and growing in ways I never dreamt possible."
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From metal hopeful to social media sensation to rock star, Wong's journey is an inspiration to all aspiring musicians. Despite the pain, she sees the silver lining and encourages, "If you view failure as a catalyst for growth, the sky's the limit."
Q: How has being with the Pumpkins changed your life?
"It's been a total game-changer, honestly. I went from living in obscurity in the desert to touring the world with one of the most legendary alternative bands. It's been overwhelming at times, but I wouldn't trade it for anything."
Q: Does the Pumpkins gig mean you're a different player now than you were before?
"Absolutely. Playing with Billy, James, and the rest of the band has opened up new horizons for me, helping me cultivate a more well-rounded style."
Q: Do you still consider yourself a metal player?
"Metal brought me where I am today, but I've grown past that. I enjoy mixing things up, playing with multiple genres and techniques."
Q: How has your presence with the Smashing Pumpkins impacted the live show?
"Being new to the band took a bit of adjustment, but the Pumpkins were incredibly patient with me. I try to put my own spin on the shows, offering a fresh, energetic take on the music."
Q: What song was the most challenging to learn, and what songs still give you fits?
"Thru the Eyes of Ruby was an intense challenge, given all the effects and intricate harmonies. Truthfully, sometimes the simplest parts can make me nervous – a missed note here or there could throw off the whole song."
Q: What have you learned about Billy and James as guitar players that you didn't know before?
"Billy has a unique playing style that sets him apart. I've learned to use my thumb more, emulating his Hendrix vibe. James' understanding of music as a design adds a remarkable dynamic to the songs."
Q: What is the secret sauce to the Pumpkins guitar sound, and how do you fit into that?
"The strength of the Pumpkins' sound lies in its feel and vibe, its flow and pocket. I aim to blend seamlessly within that, offering my own energy and style."
Q: Did securing the gig in the way you did give hope to other players? Do you feel the impact and importance?
"My presence in the band might have given hope to others – especially young women. I strive to inspire others to follow their dreams and embrace the grind, just as I did."
Q: Can you elaborate on how your thoughts on gear have changed since getting the Pumpkins gig?
"Before joining the Pumpkins, I focused mostly on distortion. But they've taught me to explore pedals, dialing in my tone and finding mine within the ensemble."
Q: Are there any downsides to living life on larger stages? Would you trade it?
"There aren't many downsides, to be honest. I've faced challenges, like building a connection with audiences in stadiums, but I wouldn't swap it for anything."
Q: Beyond the Pumpkins, what does the future hold for you?
"I gave up touring with big acts after having my son, but the Smashing Pumpkins' family-oriented environment has allowed me to maintain both family life and music. It's been a dream come true, and I cherish it every day."
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- Kiki Wong's life has drastically changed since joining the Smashing Pumpkins, as she went from living anonymously in the desert to touring the world with a legendary alternative band.
- Being a part of the Smashing Pumpkins has served as a catalyst for Kiki Wong's growth as a musician, allowing her to cultivate a more diverse and well-rounded playing style.
- The Smashing Pumpkins' unique sound has been a remarkable influence on Kiki Wong's approach to gear, encouraging her to explore different pedals and tones to find her signature sound within the ensemble.
- Kiki Wong's tenure with the Smashing Pumpkins has given hope to aspiring musicians—particularly young women—by demonstrating that determination and perseverance can lead one to achieve their dreams, even in the face of adversity.
- Despite the challenges that come with performing on larger stages, Kiki Wong cherishes her life in the music industry, appreciating the unique blends of grit, charm, and entertainment that her lifestyle continues to provide.
