Jimmy Chamberlin of the Smashing Pumpkins

Smashing Pumpkins drummer Jimmy Chamberlin joins Scott Lipps for an in-depth conversation about the music, memories, and legendary drumming that helped define alternative rock. In this special drummer-to-drummer episode of SPIN Presents Lipps Service, Jimmy takes us inside the world of The Smashing Pumpkins, from the band's earliest days and the making of Gish to the groundbreaking albums Siamese Dream and Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness. Jimmy discusses working with producer Butch Vig, developing his signature sound, and the stories behind iconic Smashing Pumpkins songs including "Tonight, Tonight," "1979," "Bullet with Butterfly Wings," and "Geek U.S.A." He also reflects on his jazz influences, early experiences playing in polka bands, the impact of drummers like Stephen Perkins and Matt Cameron, and how the alternative rock explosion of the 1990s changed music forever. Scott and Jimmy get deep into the art of drumming, the evolution of the Smashing Pumpkins, and what it takes to create a musical legacy that continues to inspire generations. Whether you're a lifelong Pumpkins fan, a drummer, or simply love great rock and roll stories, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Subscribe to Lipps Service for more conversations with the biggest names in rock, alternative music, and beyond. Presented by SPIN Magazine. Sponsored by TIDAL. Visit https://tidal.com/LIPPS to create an account and start uploading your music for free. #ad Artist: Visit Tidal.com/LIPPS to create an account and start uploading your music for free. #ad Music Fan: Find your next favorite artist at Tidal.com/LIPPS. #ad #JimmyChamberlin #SmashingPumpkins #LippsService 00:00 Introduction 04:57 Jimmy Chamberlin on “Tonight, Tonight” 06:23 His influence on drumming 14:40 How The Smashing Pumpkins forged their own path 17:00 Jimmy's formative years 21:34 Early bands, Warrior and polka music 30:00 Making Gish 31:36 Working with Butch Vig 35:30 The drumming behind “Geek U.S.A.” 39:20 Big Star and Jody Stephens 42:13 Stephen Perkins and Matt Cameron 42:42 Soundgarden and Jane's Addiction 45:16 Making Siamese Dream 49:17 The story behind “1979” 54:11 “Bullet with Butterfly Wings” 56:45 Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness 1:02:10 Other Smashing Pumpkins drummers 1:07:13 Modern Drummer magazine 1:14:08 How Jimmy's drumming has evolved https://www.patreon.com/lippsservice666. Please join or Patreon!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices