The Smashing Pumpkins faced decline after 2000 album

The Smashing Pumpkins were a leading band in the 1990s but faced challenges as they entered the 2000s. Frontman Billy Corgan and the band released a last ambitious album, "Machina/The Machines of God," before their breakup at the end of 2000. By then, they had sold 25 million records, but their popularity began to decline after their 1998 album "Adore," which strayed into new musical directions. The original band members, including Corgan, guitarist James Iha, bassist D’Arcy Wretzky, and drummer Jimmy Chamberlin, started discussing the end of the band in 1998. Tensions grew among members, particularly due to personal issues and management dissatisfaction. Chamberlin had previously left the band after a tragic event but returned after rehabilitation, while Wretzky was dismissed due to her struggles. "Machina," released in 2000, was intended to be a rock opera but mixed various styles, which confused many fans. Corgan had a vision for a story about a rock star named Zero, but the concept was never fully realized. Despite a promotional campaign that included puzzles and online interactions, the album sold poorly, marking a turning point for the band. As their last tour began, fans expressed disappointment. Many booed the band for not playing enough hits and for the setlist choices. The final concert in Chicago was lengthy but did not feel like a true farewell. In 2007, the band returned with a new album but struggled to regain their former glory. Over the years, various lineup changes led to different album releases, but none matched their previous success. Corgan continues to defend their work from that era, believing it challenged conventional music paths. He has hinted at reissuing "Machina" and has plans to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their successful album "Mellon Collie And The Infinite Sadness" with special performances. Despite their rocky history, Corgan asserts that The Smashing Pumpkins paved new roads in rock music.