Billy Corgan
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Alternative Rock Grunge Shoegaze

Billy Corgan

The Smashing Pumpkins

The architect of the wall of fuzz behind The Smashing Pumpkins. His obsessive layering of Big Muff-distorted guitars defined the symphonic sound of 90s alternative rock. Multi-tracking dozens of guitar parts into orchestral textures, blending shoegaze density with grunge aggression through meticulous studio craftsmanship.

3 Eras
16 Gear Items

SIGNATURE TONE

A massive, orchestral wall of fuzz. Characterized by the 'Op-Amp' Big Muff scoop, multiple tracked guitars, and a mix of creamy sustain and aggressive bite.

SIGNAL CHAINS BY ERA

Explore how the rig evolved over time

1

Siamese Dream Era (1991-1994)

1991-1994 5 items
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The 'Pumpkin' sound. A vintage Stratocaster loaded with Lace Sensors into an Op-Amp Big Muff and a modded Marshall.

2

Mellon Collie Era (1995-1997)

1995-1997 5 items
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Infinite sadness and infinite gain. A massive rack system featuring the Mesa Boogie Strategy 500 and Marshall JMP-1.

3

Zeitgeist / Modern Era (2007-Present)

2007-Present 6 items
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Modern heavy. Reverend signature guitars and Diezel amps for a tighter, more metal-influenced sound.