Billy was born to a middle-class Chicago family, and he experienced a trouble childhood. His parents, William Snr. (a travelling muscian) and Martha, divorced when Billy was two years of age. Billy was shifted from relative to relative and was referred to a psychiatrist when he was 14. He ended up living with his stepmother, Penelope Anderson, whom he grew very close to.

Billy felt ostracised by his own peers, which made him even more withdrawn. He says, 'My hair was always too long or too short...it's been that way throughout my life.' He was made to feel even more different by his large strawberry birthmark, which his peers never forgot to remind him of.

At 14, he saw his friend playing a Michael Schenker, black and white, flying V guitar. That decision would change his life. 'It was like a light bulb going on. He couldn't play, that was the thing. He was just making noise and that was it. At that moment, it all made sense: this is what I was supposed to do.'

Since then, he has endured a painful divorce from his long-time girlfriend, Chris Fabian; band turmoil; and his repeated clashes with the media. Billy's mother died in 1998 after a long battle with cancer. The song 'For Martha' on Adore, was written for her. Billy Corgan has proven himself to be one of the greatest rock maestros of our time, if not, the best.

Billy has plans to split up the band since their last album, Machina II has been completed. His plans include a solo career and more work on his new record label, Constantinople Records. Whatever he does, he will be a resounding success, for he is truly a rock god.
 
 

Billy's Stats

Height - 6'4" (6'3" most of the time due to slouching).

Marital Status - Was married to Chris Fabian, they divorced in 1996.
                        Now dating band photographer, Yelena Yemchuk.

Eyes- Blue

Hair - Billy's hair was brown then red and then black. He completely shaved it all off after 1995.

Facts - Billy only writes his music early in the morning.
          He lost his virginity at age 18.
          He has a large strawberry birthmark on his left hand.
          Had a Twinkies obsession.
          Is known for his unusual and unique sense of dress.
 

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