Billy Corgan Says the Smashing Pumpkins Could Deliver an Impressive Las Vegas Sphere Residency, Though He Questions Whether the Band Is Big Enough to Make It Happen.
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Discussing the possibility of performing at Las Vegas’ Sphere, Corgan said he believes the Smashing Pumpkins are among the few bands capable of delivering a production on that scale, even though he acknowledged the group may not have the level of commercial draw needed to secure a residency.
Billy Corgan has expressed interest in the possibility of the Smashing Pumpkins headlining a residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas, though he recognizes the challenges such a production would present.
In a recent interview with Consequence, the Smashing Pumpkins frontman praised the artists who have already performed at the state-of-the-art venue, saying he has tremendous respect for those who have successfully mounted Sphere residencies.
Corgan noted that producing a show at the venue requires an enormous amount of planning, resources and audience demand. He highlighted acts such as U2, the Eagles and No Doubt as examples of performers capable of filling the venue while delivering the large-scale productions it demands.
Despite his enthusiasm, the Grammy-winning musician questioned whether the Smashing Pumpkins currently have a large enough fan base to sustain a multi-night engagement in Las Vegas. Still, he believes the band’s distinctive style could make for an unforgettable experience if given the opportunity.
According to Corgan, the theatrical nature of the group’s music and live performances would allow them to create a production unlike anything audiences have seen at the Sphere. He envisioned the concert taking on a dark, gothic atmosphere, adding that few bands could execute that kind of immersive concept on such a grand scale.
Corgan also revealed that the Sphere has not approached the Smashing Pumpkins about a residency. He explained that success at the 20,000-seat venue depends on having a dedicated audience willing to travel to Las Vegas for multiple performances.
Looking ahead, he suggested that the planned expansion of the Sphere brand could create new opportunities for more artists. After Sphere Entertainment and Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism announced plans in 2024 to build a second venue in Abu Dhabi, Corgan said additional locations could broaden the range of acts capable of hosting residencies.
For now, however, he believes only artists with massive fan followings can consistently fill the venue across multiple dates. Even so, Corgan said he has immense admiration for the musicians who have already accomplished that feat, including Phish.