The Smashing Pumpkins traveled to Disney World to perform Christmas songs as part of a holiday-themed TV special. The Wonderful World of Disney: Magical Holiday Celebration included the group performing an unreleased original song called "Evergreen," as well as a cover of Bing Crosby's chestnut "Silver Bells."
Billy Corgan and the Smashing Pumpkins performed as part of a Disney holiday TV special that aired on Sunday night
As unlikely as the pairing might seem at first blush, it's no secret that frontman Billy Corgan is a Disney fanatic. A photo of the musician riding a rollercoaster at one of the company's theme parks went viral back in 2015; writers at Family Guy seized on the situation and worked the image into one of their jokes.
As he said in a promo for the special, Corgan was honored to be performing as part of the Disney production that aired on ABC on Sunday night.
"I work in the world of professional wrestling and when you’re a big fan of professional wrestling, they call you a mark. So I’m a Disney mark," he said in an interview filmed before the show. "I collect old Disneyland items. I have stuff from back on the opening day in 1955. So when they called me to come play Disney, I’m like, whatever you need." Corgan added that he and his family set up seven Christmas in their home every year.
Many social media users were shocked by the band's appearance on the program. "I still can’t believe I am seeing The Smashing Pumpkins on a Disney Holiday special. Just wild," one said. "What in the f**k of all f**ks is happening here?" asked another. "I love Disney history… and Christmas… but (I'm going to) need a drink."
Artists including DJ Khaled, Ariana DeBose and Michael Bolton also performed as part of the program. Sierra Swan filled in for the Smashing Pumpkins' bassist Jack Bates, Stereogum reported. Longtime guitarist Jeff Schroeder left the band last month.
The entire holiday special is currently available to stream on Hulu and Disney+. Those who don't have access to those streaming services can find clips on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.
