The Smashing Pumpkins

In late 1993, when The Smashing Pumpkins delivered a live performance of "Cherub Rock" at Rockefeller Center, they were riding high on the wave of their iconic album, *Siamese Dream*. Released earlier that summer, *Siamese Dream* was a critical and commercial triumph, showcasing the band's unique blend of grunge and alternative rock with lush, layered production. This album featured some of their biggest hits, propelling them into the forefront of the '90s music scene. Recording "Cherub Rock" live in such a notable venue during this peak moment captured the raw energy and dynamic sound that defined the band’s early era. Interestingly, *Siamese Dream* also came at a tumultuous time for frontman Billy Corgan, struggling with personal issues and the pressures of sudden fame. This performance not only highlights their popularity but also reflects the band's intricate balance of vulnerability and power, which resonated deeply with fans then—and still does today.

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