The man goes by two names, fans either know him as William Patrick Corgan or just simply Billy Corgan. Either way, the singer and songwriter who had a little known band called The Smashing Pumpkins is getting ready to release his new solo album, Ogilala next week on August 13th.
Recently, Corgan performed a show in Berlin, spiritual homeland of David Bowie during his 70s art rock period. Here is where the singer and songwriter made his opportunity to debut some of his new songs. He also used the venue to play tribute to the late David Bowie with performances of the tracks “Zowie” and “Processional.” The later song was co-written and features guitar work from his Smashing Pumpkins bandmate, James Iha which appears on the studio album. During the set, Corgan also debut several songs from Ogilala: “The Long Goodbye,” “Half-Life Of An Audodidact,” “Mandarynne,” “Antietam,” and the previously released singles “Aeronaut” and “The Spaniards.”
Like every track released so far, “Zowie” has Corgan with just himself and the piano. The song is rich in melody and was a great way to start the set.
The new record, Ogilala, was produced by Rick Rubin, the same producer who helped revitalize the career of Johnny Cash in the American series which reintroduced the country artist to the whole world. Corgan has already released his single “Aeronaut” last month from Ogilala and teasing fans via social media by playing a song a day from the record.
Speaking about the potential of a larger Smashing Pumpkins reunion featuring Iha, D’arcy Wretzky and Jimmy Chamberlin, Corgan said, “[A reunion tour] has been knocked about,” explained the singer. “There’s certainly gears that turn and things get waved around, but until it’s inked, I’m in the dark as much as anybody … But I’ll say this and I mean it: If we never play a note together again, that’s okay. I’m way, way more interested in the fact that we have peace with each other. I’ve reached the point in my life where I’m not in a hurry to get to anything. If it’s there, great. If it’s not, cool.”
What is known now is that both Corgan and the rest of the Smashing Pumpkins fans are happy that everyone is on speaking terms again. Fingers are crossed for a more elaborate reunion soon.
Watch the Bowie tribute below.
Photo Credit: Raymond Flotat
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