In early 2024, the Smashing Pumpkins held a global audition to find a replacement for guitarist Jeff Schroeder, drawing an impressive response of over 10,000 hopefuls. From this extensive group, Instagram guitarist Kiki Wong was selected, a choice that has stirred discussions about how social media popularity is becoming increasingly influential in traditional music roles.
Kiki Wong’s move from being a prominent social media figure with nearly 700,000 followers on Instagram and over one million on TikTok to joining the legendary alt-rock band Smashing Pumpkins is a testament to the changing landscape of music discovery. Her journey highlights how modern platforms like Instagram are not just spaces for sharing content but can also serve as launching pads for serious musical careers. Having already collaborated with major artists like Taylor Swift, Usher and Bret Michaels, Kiki is no stranger to the limelight, yet her step into a role with the Smashing Pumpkins marks a significant leap from digital screens to the stages of global tours.
Are these selections purely based on talent, or does the marketability of a social media heavyweight play a significant role?
The phenomenon of social media platforms elevating musicians to the status where they are considered for roles in world-renowned bands poses interesting questions for the music industry. Are these selections purely based on talent, or does the marketability of a social media heavyweight play a significant role? And are social media musicians undergoing the same vetting as those who follow more traditional paths, or does their online popularity influence their selection over potentially more skilled but less well-known musicians? Also, does the rise of social media musicians into roles traditionally filled by touring session musicians or those rising through live gig circuits signal a shift in the industry standards?
When it comes to musicians transitioning from social media fame to major band roles, Stevie T.‘s experience with Dragonforce offers a cautionary tale. Announced as the replacement for the band’s longtime bassist, Frédéric Leclercq, Stevie T. was later absent from the tour, attributing his withdrawal to severe anxiety about performing live. His revelation on YouTube (see above) about the pressures of touring underscores the unique challenges faced by digital stars as they navigate the expectations of live performances with established bands, which highlights the real-world complexities of integrating social media personalities into traditional music settings.
While Stevie T.’s attempt to transition from YouTube fame to live performances with Dragonforce was fraught with personal challenges, Alicia Vigil’s integration into the same band paints a contrasting picture. After joining Dragonforce as their new bassist, Vigil, who had prior experience with her own band, Vigil Of War, quickly adapted to the dynamics of the group, something that is exemplified by her contributions to songs like Doomsday Party, where she infused a distinct funky bass line that not only added a unique flair but also enhanced the band’s signature sound, proving that a seasoned player can indeed handle and thrive in the fast-paced environment of an established band like Dragonforce.
The integration of social media stars like Wong into touring line-ups is not just about their ability to perform but also about their potential to draw a large online following into the live music experience. Furthermore, it prompts an inquiry into whether social media fame provides an unfair advantage in these selections or if it simply unveils talents that might otherwise go unnoticed.
The debate may focus on the implications of such selections for band dynamics and musical integrity. While the technical prowess and stage compatibility are critical, the marketing appeal of a social media following cannot be overlooked in an era where bands are increasingly conscious of their digital presence.
This decision by the Smashing Pumpkins to integrate a social media figure into their touring lineup reflects a broader trend where digital presence intersects with mainstream music opportunities. However, the focus remains on the artist’s capability to perform live with the band, as highlighted by Wong’s in-person audition and selection among a pool of finalists.
Kiki Wong is set to make her debut with the Smashing Pumpkins at Birmingham Utilita Arena on June 7, during their co-headline tour with Weezer.
