What Kiki Wong, the guitarist for Smashing Pumpkins, has to say about being named one of the best guitarists of 2024
Kiki Wong, the guitarist for Smashing Pumpkins, posted a response on Instagram after being recognized as one of the best guitarists of 2024. When the musician shared the cover of Guitar World, he said, “I find it hard to believe that this is actually happening.” It is an honor and a source of great humility for me to be included on the cover of Guitar World Magazine, as well as to be recognized among the best guitarists of the year and the best news of 2024, alongside some of the most talented guitar players now active in the world.
She went on to say, “When I was just a teenager learning to play the guitar, many of these incredible mentions, such as Steve Vai, Slash, Joe Satriani, and Kerry King, were all huge inspirations for me.” To say that I am even on the same printed paper as them is an understatement. I can’t even fathom that I am regarded to be a peer.
It is with every ounce of my being and soul that I express my gratitude to Billy Corgan, Jimmy Chamberlain, James Iha, and Jack Bates for their unwavering support and acceptance of me as a member of the Smashing Pumpkins family. In addition, Wong added that the year 2024 has been nothing short of a dream come true due of this encounter.
At the end of her article, the rocker expressed her gratitude to her family, friends, and the amazing music firms that had sponsored her. She also thanked all of those individuals who had supported her during this quest. Without each and every one of you, I would not be here. The fact that I will be performing at the Forum tonight for the KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas event is beyond exciting. This is going to be an incredible time!
Wong was chosen from a pool of 10,000 applicants to become a member of the Smashing Pumpkins following the departure of Jeff Schroeder in the year 2023. During the month of January 2024, the band shared an open call for applications, and Wong submitted his application. A Zoom conversation with the band resulted in Kiki being selected as one of nine individuals to participate in an audition in Los Angeles in March of 2024. “Bullet With Butterfly Wings,” “Cherub Rock,” “Jellybelly,” and “Today” were the four songs that she was required to perform to the audience.
A recent performance by Smashing Pumpkins was given at the KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas event. It was also planned that Beck, 311, and Sublime would be performing during the event. Furthermore, Jimmy Eat World, Franz Ferdinand, Royel Otis, Awolnation, The Linda Lindas, and bby were among the artists who performed on stage during this year.