Joy Division: The Most Influential Rock Band of the 20th Century According to Billy Corgan
Billy Corgan, the lead singer of Smashing Pumpkins, recently shared his opinion on the most influential band of the 20th Century, aside from the Beatles. During an episode of the podcast Track Star*, Corgan expressed his admiration for Joy Division, stating that they were the most influential rock band of the century after the Beatles. He praised Joy Division for crystallizing post-punk and becoming a template for many bands that followed, despite having only one major hit, "Love Will Tear Us Apart." Corgan emphasized the band's unique sound and minimalist approach to music production, which has left a lasting impact on the music industry.
Joy Division, formed in Salford, England in 1976, released two albums, "Unknown Pleasures" in 1979 and "Closer" in 1980, before the tragic death of lead singer Ian Curtis. Following Curtis' passing, the remaining members formed New Order, another influential band in the alternative rock scene. Despite their short-lived career, Joy Division's legacy lives on through their influence on bands like U2, The Cure, OMD, Tears for Fears, Husker Du, Future Islands, and Soundgarden. The band's impact on the music industry is undeniable, as acknowledged by Corgan and other musicians who have drawn inspiration from Joy Division's unique sound and style.