On this day… The Smashing Pumpkins announce via Instagram that they are conducting an open audition for a new guitarist following the departure of Jeff Schroeder, after sixteen years with the Pumpkins. Applicants are told to submit a tape and resume.  Four months later, after receiving over 10,000 applications, The Pumpkins announced the selection of Kiki Wong (pictured) to join the group’s touring lineup of Billy Corgan, Jimmy Chamberlin, James Iha, Jack Bates and Katie Cole. Along with a pool of finalists, chosen by Corgan, Wong auditioned in-person in Los Angeles. One of Instagram’s foremost shredders with 674k followers, Wong has performed with Taylor Swift, Usher and Bret Michaels. “I never thought little ole 15-year-old me playing Metal guitar in my bedroom would amount to this moment,” Wong said in a statement. “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.” ### The post A Day In Rock: January 5th, 2024: Smashing Pumpkins Hold Open Audition appeared first on RockinTown.