The Smashing Pumpkins and YUNGBLUD Collaborate on a New Version of "Zombie"

Introduction to the Collaboration

In an exciting musical partnership, The Smashing Pumpkins have teamed up with YUNGBLUD to reimagine the powerful anthem "Zombie." Originally featured on YUNGBLUD’s acclaimed Idols album, the track is nominated for Best Rock Song at the upcoming GRAMMYs on February 1. This collaboration brings a fresh perspective to a deeply personal song that reflects YUNGBLUD’s experiences with his grandmother’s struggles.

The Inspiration Behind "Zombie"

YUNGBLUD’s emotional connection to "Zombie" is rooted in his family’s challenges. The song serves as a heartfelt tribute to his grandmother, who faced significant injuries and trauma. The collaboration with The Smashing Pumpkins adds a new layer of depth to the already poignant track.

A Meeting of Icons

The spark for this collaboration ignited last summer when YUNGBLUD met Billy Corgan, the iconic frontman of The Smashing Pumpkins, at the memorable Back To The Beginning show at Villa Park. Inspired by Corgan’s influence on his music, YUNGBLUD reached out to him for the opportunity to collaborate on "Zombie," a song that he acknowledges was indirectly inspired by The Smashing Pumpkins’ work.

YUNGBLUD’s Reflection on the Collaboration

In expressing his admiration, YUNGBLUD shared:

“Siamese Dream was an album that was there for me more than I could ever explain when I was growing up, so to be making music with the band that created it is really quite hard to comprehend. Billy has always been such a massive inspiration to me but more recently a huge mentor of mine. His outlook on the importance of truth in art is something that I’ve always held close to my heart.”

The Transformation of "Zombie"

YUNGBLUD emphasizes that "Zombie" holds a special place in his heart. He elaborates on the song’s evolution:

“Zombie is the most important song of Idols to me. It’s deeply personal and it was heavily influenced by The Smashing Pumpkins’ ability to mix emotion, cinema and heavy guitars. I sent Billy an email, asking if he would re-imagine this song with me and when he agreed to it, it was a dream come true. To watch one of my idols work on something that I had written was one of the greatest honours of my life. I love that this new version of Zombie is heavier, it has Billy Corgan’s iconic guitar sound, it has more urgency and it rips my heart out. I’m so proud of it.”

Billy Corgan’s Thoughts on the Collaboration

Billy Corgan shared his enthusiasm for working with YUNGBLUD:

“YUNGBLUD’s star shines bright, so it’s been great fun to lend our zig-zag voice to his Zombie, which he’s said was inspired by one of our own. Hence the encouragement that we make this rendition as personal as possible and I’m proud to say we’ve done that; if only to honour him in return.”

Conclusion

The collaboration between The Smashing Pumpkins and YUNGBLUD on "Zombie" is a testament to the power of music to connect generations of artists. By blending YUNGBLUD’s raw emotional storytelling with The Smashing Pumpkins’ iconic sound, this new rendition promises to resonate with fans old and new, highlighting the enduring legacy of both artists.

FAQs

What inspired YUNGBLUD to write "Zombie"?

YUNGBLUD wrote "Zombie" in response to his grandmother’s serious injuries and trauma, making it a deeply personal anthem.

How did the collaboration with The Smashing Pumpkins come about?

YUNGBLUD met Billy Corgan during the Back To The Beginning show at Villa Park and later invited him to collaborate on "Zombie," a song inspired by The Smashing Pumpkins’ music.

What are YUNGBLUD’s thoughts on working with Billy Corgan?

YUNGBLUD considers Billy Corgan a massive influence and mentor, expressing that collaborating with him was a dream come true.

When is the new version of "Zombie" being released?

The new version of "Zombie" is set to be featured on YUNGBLUD’s Idols album, which is nominated for Best Rock Song at the GRAMMYs on February 1.