Billy Corgan to Tour Smashing Pumpkins Songs with New Band, The Machines of God

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The Origins of The Machines of God
4. A Return to Zero: The Tour Details
5. Reimagining the Past
6. Historical Context of the Smashing Pumpkins
7. Fan Reactions and Anticipation
8. The Future of Corgan and the Machines of God
9. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Billy Corgan, frontman of the Smashing Pumpkins, announces a North American tour titled A Return to Zero set for June 2025.
• The tour celebrates the 30th anniversary of the iconic album Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness and the 25th anniversary of the Machina albums.
• Corgan will perform with his new backing group, The Machines of God, featuring members with notable connections to his musical legacy.

Introduction

In the world of rock music, nostalgia often coexists with innovation. For Billy Corgan, the frontman of the legendary Smashing Pumpkins, this coexistence is about to take center stage. On April 1, 2025, Corgan announced an upcoming North American tour aptly named "A Return to Zero." This venture not only serves as a celebration of his long-lasting impact on the music scene but also offers a retrospective on his most celebrated works, including the 30th anniversary of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness—an album that defined the soundscape of the 1990s.

What makes this tour particularly intriguing is the formation of a new band, The Machines of God, which consists of musicians who carry the legacy of the Smashing Pumpkins while also bringing fresh talent to the stage. As Corgan embarks on this new chapter of his musical journey, he continues to reshape his artistic narrative, bridging past and future in a way that promises to engage fans old and new.

The Origins of The Machines of God

The Machines of God is comprised of emerging talents as well as established collaborators. Notable members include Kiki Wong, who has lent her guitar skills to the Smashing Pumpkins in recent years; drummer Jake Hayden, and bassist Kid Tigrrr, also known as Jenna Fournier of NIIGHTS fame. This diverse ensemble not only pays homage to Corgan's storied past but also revitalizes his musical vision with a contemporary touch.

Corgan’s Vision

In discussions surrounding the tour, Corgan has expressed an eagerness to revisit classics while introducing elements from his latest work, such as the 2024 album Aghori Mhori Mei. This balance of nostalgia and innovation reflects Corgan’s belief that music continuously evolves and that artists must adapt while honoring their roots. "This project is about harnessing the emotional weight of our past while pushing toward the future," he stated in a recent interview.

A Return to Zero: The Tour Details

Set to kick off in June, "A Return to Zero" will encompass a total of 16 dates across North America. The tour aims to engage fans with an eclectic mix of hits, deep cuts, and selections from Corgan's latest projects. The scheduled locations highlight a blend of large venues and intimate spaces, promising an accessible experience for diverse audiences.

Tour Dates

• June 7, 2025 - Baltimore Soundstage, Baltimore, MD
• June 9, 2025 - Paradise Rock Club, Boston, MA
• June 11, 2025 - Kee to Bala, Muskoka, ON
• June 12, 2025 - History, Toronto, ON
• June 13, 2025 - Beanfield Theatre, Montreal, QC
• June 15, 2025 - Irving Plaza, New York, NY
• June 16, 2025 - Theatre of Living Arts, Philadelphia, PA
• June 17, 2025 - Archer Music Hall, Allentown, PA
• June 19, 2025 - St. Andrew’s Hall, Detroit, MI
• June 20, 2025 - Taste of Joliet, Joliet, IL
• June 21, 2025 - Intersection, Grand Rapids, MI
• June 23, 2025 - Roxian Theatre, Pittsburgh, PA
• June 25, 2025 - House of Blues, Cleveland, OH
• June 26, 2025 - Bogart’s, Cincinnati, OH
• June 27, 2025 - Summerfest, Milwaukee, WI
• June 29, 2025 - Varsity Theater, Minneapolis, MN

Celebrating Milestones

This tour is more than just a promotional effort; it serves as a significant mark on Corgan's artistic timeline. Both Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness and Machina/The Machines of God are pivotal albums in the Smashing Pumpkins' discography. The acclaimed Mellon Collie debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 after its release in 1995 and received critical acclaim, including seven Grammy nominations. It featured hits like "Bullet with Butterfly Wings," a major anthem of the '90s.

Machina, released in 2000, represented a shift for the band and was their last studio album before internal conflicts led to a hiatus. Corgan's decision to honor this music reflects a desire to rekindle the emotional truths embedded in these works.

Reimagining the Past

Beyond this tour, Corgan is expanding his artistic horizons. In a unique collaboration with the Lyric Opera of Chicago, he plans to reimagine Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness in an operatic format later in the year, showcasing the genre crossover between rock and classical music. Corgan explained, “Opera and rock both tell stories of heightened emotions, and I am excited for both fans of my music and traditional opera fans to hear some truly inspired work."

This operatic rendition will provide a new lens to view the familiar melodies and lyrics, allowing both new audiences and longtime fans to experience the music in a radically different way. Such innovations serve as reminders of Corgan's commitment to pushing creative boundaries.

Historical Context of the Smashing Pumpkins

Founded in Chicago in 1988, the Smashing Pumpkins surged to fame in the 1990s, characterized by their distinct sound that combined elements of alternative rock, heavy metal, and psychedelic music. Marked by Corgan's distinctive voice and thoughtful lyrics, the band's music often explored themes of love, loss, and existentialism.

The Impact of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness

The album Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness is often cited as one of the most influential albums of its time, capturing the angst and complexities of that era. Its success solidified the band's place in rock history, influencing numerous artists across genres.

Fan Reactions and Anticipation

As news of the tour spreads, reactions from fans reflect a mixture of excitement and nostalgia. Social media platforms are buzzing with discussions about what songs followers hope to hear live. Many long-time fans express eagerness for a live rendition of Mellon Collie tracks, while newer supporters of the band's recent works are curious to see how Corgan and The Machines of God bring a new energy to classic hits.

The Future of Corgan and the Machines of God

As Corgan embarks on this new adventure, the question arises: what will this mean for the future of the Smashing Pumpkins and Corgan's artistic endeavors? While the band's lineup has changed significantly over the years, there seems to be a persistent evolution that Corgan embraces. The continued re-examination of his past works, be it through tour formats or cross-genre collaborations, indicates an artist who remains unafraid of change.

As Corgan and The Machines of God prepare to hit the road, fans eagerly await a series of performances that promise to honor a storied past while paving the way for future endeavors.

FAQ

What dates will Billy Corgan's tour take place?

The tour, titled "A Return to Zero," will take place throughout June 2025, starting from June 7 in Baltimore, MD, and concluding on June 29 in Minneapolis, MN.

Who is in the Machines of God band?

The Machines of God includes guitarist Kiki Wong, drummer Jake Hayden, and bassist Kid Tigrrr (Jenna Fournier). Each member brings their unique talents and experiences to the group.

What albums will be featured during the tour?

Corgan will perform songs from Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, Machina/The Machines of God, Machina II/The Friends & Enemies of Modern Music, and selections from his latest album, Aghori Mhori Mei.

Why is Billy Corgan reimagining Mellon Collie in an operatic form?

Corgan seeks to bridge the worlds of rock and opera, revealing the emotional depth of Mellon Collie through a new artistic lens. He aims to honor both musical traditions while presenting the material in a fresh context.

How can fans purchase tickets for the tour?

Ticket sales and additional tour information will typically be available via the official Smashing Pumpkins website and major ticketing platforms closer to the tour date. Fans are advised to stay updated through social media channels for announcements.

In closing, as Corgan gears up for this exhilarating tour, it stands not just as a reminder of his past successes but also as an affirmation of his undying commitment to creativity and musical exploration. The journey ahead appears promising, inviting both nostalgia and innovation to intertwine in a compelling narrative that resonates with generations of fans.