In a recent interview with Rolling Stone , Billy Corgan , frontman of the Smashing Pumpkins , made a comment that is stirring up punk and alternative rock fans: in his opinion, Green Day has surpassed the Ramones in terms of influence, reach, and recognition.
The statement came as he reminisced about their 2024 tour together, highlighting the energy of the shows and the welcoming attitude of the band led by Billie Joe Armstrong backstage.
“It was one of the most incredible tours of my career,” Corgan stated. “The audience was wonderful, and Green Day was extremely generous… They were true representatives of rock. You can’t imagine a more perfect summer.”
The musician also recalled the bands' first encounters at Lollapalooza in 1994 and how their relationship strengthened over the years. Commenting on Green Day's recent tribute on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Corgan had an insight:
“When I was younger, the Ramones were the big reference. And, in a way, they always will be. But then I thought: 'Wow, Green Day really did it. They became bigger than the Ramones.'”
According to Corgan, Green Day achieved a level of worldwide fame that the Ramones never reached, even while acknowledging the historical importance of the New York band.
"His influence is broader, his reach is greater, and undoubtedly, his success is too," he concluded.
Billy Corgan's Controversies: Incendiary Statements and Controversial Opinions
Billy Corgan is no stranger to controversy . Besides the recent comparison between Green Day and the Ramones, the Smashing Pumpkins frontman has already caused a stir with his strong opinions on the music industry, politics, and pop culture.
In 2023, he publicly criticized the cancel culture , stating that it stifles artistic freedom. He has also faced resistance for his views on conspiracy theories and controversial statements about other artists, such as when he called certain musicians "manufactured by the industry."
His comments often divide opinions, but Corgan doesn't seem to mind. For him, frankness is an essential part of his art – even if it generates heated debates between fans and critics.
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