The Smashing Pumpkins are an influential alternative rock band that emerged in the late 1980s and gained widespread acclaim in the 1990s. The band was formed in 1988 in Chicago, Illinois, by lead vocalist and guitarist Billy Corgan, guitarist James Iha, bassist D'arcy Wretzky, and drummer Jimmy Chamberlin. The Smashing Pumpkins released their debut album, "Gish," in 1991. The album showcased the band's blend of alternative rock, shoegaze, and heavy guitar-driven sound.

“Siamese Dream" (1993) brought the band mainstream success. The album features hits like "Today" and "Disarm" and is regarded as a seminal work in the alternative rock genre. The double-album "Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness" (1995) is one of The Smashing Pumpkins' most acclaimed works. It includes hits such as "1979" and "Tonight, Tonight."

The band experienced line up changes over the years, with drummer Jimmy Chamberlin briefly leaving and later re-joining. D'arcy Wretzky left the band in 1999, and the line up continued to evolve. The Smashing Pumpkins are considered one of the most influential alternative rock bands of the 1990s. Their music often explores themes of melancholy, introspection, and emotional intensity.

Billy Corgan, the band's lead vocalist and primary songwriter, has been a central figure in The Smashing Pumpkins' journey. His distinctive voice and song writing style are key elements of the band's sound. The Smashing Pumpkins' legacy is marked by their contribution to the alternative rock movement and their ability to create music that resonates emotionally with listeners.