The Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan shared his admiration for Olivia Rodrigo during an appearance on The New York Times' Popcast, according to Billboard. Speaking with hosts Jon Caramanica and Joe Coscarelli on the episode released Thursday, Oct. 22, the veteran musician explained why he continues to publicly champion the young pop star.
Corgan joins a growing list of celebrated rock artists who have shown support for Rodrigo, including Robert Smith, Jack White, Mick Jagger, Alanis Morissette, Sheryl Crow, and Stevie Nicks. During the interview, Caramanica and Coscarelli asked Corgan about his support for newer musicians, noting that he has also championed acts like YUNGBLUD and sombr.
The hosts observed that Rodrigo presents a unique case because songs such as "The Cure" and "Pretty Isn't Pretty" have drawn musical comparisons to The Smashing Pumpkins' tracks "Disarm" and "1979." Corgan indicated that he welcomes those parallels, finding the similarities flattering rather than problematic.
"She's so smart," Corgan remarked, calling Rodrigo "super savvy." He noted that she understands that breaking free means allowing herself to be free and welcoming diverse influences. Corgan emphasized that she is not afraid to make an imperfect song or leave a vocal slightly out of tune, adding that pop stars should be as authentic in their craft as rock musicians are in theirs.
Corgan previously joined Rodrigo on stage to perform a duet of The Smashing Pumpkins' track "33" at Lollapalooza this past summer. He also noted that connecting with younger artists has felt freeing, as they were not around when his band faced harsh critical reviews on previous albums.