Los Angeles based guitarist Kiki Wong has been announced as Jeff Shroeder‘s replacement in the Smashing Pumpkins as a touring guitarist, following an open audition process that began at the beginning of the year, prompting around 10,000 applications from around the world.
The guitarist with LA rockers Vigil Of War has a significant social media following with 674,000 followers on Instagram where she posts covers, collaborations and playing insights.
“SP is excited to officially welcome highly-skilled veteran guitarist Kiki Wong,” the band posted on Instagram.
“Kiki joins the band’s touring lineup of Billy Corgan, Jimmy Chamberlin, and James Iha, along with mainstays Jack Bates and Katie Cole. Please join us in welcoming Kiki to the SP family.”
“It’s been an absolute wild ride, but I am beyond honoured and humbled to be chosen to play alongside some of rock’s greatest and most influential musicians of all time,” said Wong in a statement.
“I never thought little ole 15-year-old me playing metal guitar in my bedroom would amount to this moment,” she added.
“It goes to show hard work and perseverance truly pays off if you’re willing to push through the tough stuff, so never lose hope out there.
“I am so grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to share the stage with the legendary Smashing Pumpkins!”
