Drummer Jimmy Chamberlin Returns to Smashing Pumpkins for 2015 Summer Tour
Smashing Pumpkins fans everywhere are likely rejoicing right now, as original drummer Jimmy Chamberlin has rejoined the band for the Pumpkins' 2015 North American tour with Marilyn Manson.
The Smashing Pumpkins' lineup has changed many times throughout the years, but for much of the band's career, Jimmy Chamberlin and frontman Billy Corgan were the Pumpkins' foundation. Chamberlin left the Smashing Pumpkins (for the third time) in 2009, choosing to focus on various side projects and his LiveOne company, but after an arrangement between Corgan and another drummer fell through for this upcoming trek, the frontman connected with Chamberlin.
"We suddenly found ourselves in the situation of not having anybody lined up," Corgan tells USA Today. "On the group's first acoustic tour, which will wrap Thursday in Minneapolis, the band's configuration does not include a drummer. "We knew we could do the acoustic tour with some backing tapes and drum machines, stuff like that, but we're also looking at the Manson tour in three weeks."
Chamberlin adds, "He asked if there was any way I'd consider coming back for the tour. It's a great opportunity not only to celebrate the music, but to celebrate the friendship and the legacy." However, Chamberlin has no plans to continue with the Smashing Pumpkins after the Manson tour, remaining committed to LiveOne has his main priority.
Corgan adds, "I want to run a business more like it's an open door. It's so great, because Jimmy and I are able to engage strictly on the road ahead – what songs are we playing, when do we start rehearsing."
For many young fans, this may be the first time they've seen the Smashing Pumpkins live with Jimmy Chamberlin, and as veteran fans can tell you, that's the best way possible. For the full list of Smashing Pumpkins / Marilyn Manson tour dates, click here.
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