Yungblud has opened 2026 with a headline-making collaboration: a reimagined version of his hit single “Zombie,” now featuring the legendary alternative rock band The Smashing Pumpkins. The release not only marks the musician’s first major drop of the year but also represents a milestone for The Smashing Pumpkins, as it’s the first time in their three-decade career they’ve appeared on another artist’s track.
Originally appearing on Yungblud’s fourth studio album Idols, “Zombie” quickly became one of his biggest streaming successes, surpassing 100 million plays worldwide. The single is currently nominated for Best Rock Song at the 2026 Grammy Awards, while Idols is also up for Best Rock Album — solidifying Yungblud’s reputation as one of the most innovative voices in modern rock.
The new version of “Zombie” preserves the emotional intensity of the original but dives deeper into a darker, heavier soundscape. The track opens with Yungblud’s signature vocals before Billy Corgan steps in on the second verse, creating a striking interplay between their distinct tones. The updated arrangement layers thick, distorted guitars and an ominous atmosphere that magnify the song’s exploration of trauma, grief, and emotional detachment.
In a conversation with Loudwire, Yungblud shared that Siamese Dream served as a creative touchstone while writing “Zombie.” “I was channeling the sadness and raw melancholy of that record, mixed with the ferocity of Billy’s guitars,” he explained. Interestingly, Yungblud revealed that the early demo of “Zombie” was even heavier but was toned down to avoid sounding too similar to The Smashing Pumpkins. Revisiting the track now with Corgan’s direct involvement allowed him to “finally bring that vision to life.”
After reaching out to Corgan personally, Yungblud flew to Chicago — the band’s hometown — to record the new version and film its accompanying music video. Directed by Charlie Sarsfield, the visual captures the song’s darker mood and features both artists performing side by side.
The collaboration caps off a landmark year for Yungblud. His album Idols debuted at No. 1 on the U.K. Albums Chart and climbed to No. 15 on Billboard’s Top Rock & Alternative Albums chart. He also achieved a Top 10 debut on the Billboard 200 with One More Time, his collaborative EP with Aerosmith. The EP’s lead single, “My Only Angel,” topped Billboard’s Hot Hard Rock Songs chart.
Looking ahead, Yungblud is gearing up for the next leg of his Idols world tour, which includes a run of Australian dates and a sold-out arena tour across the U.K. starting April 11. Additional international shows are expected to be announced soon.
