I Am One

Smashing Pumpkins

About I Am One

"I Am One" is the debut single by American alternative rock band The Smashing Pumpkins. It was the band's first ever release and remains the only single issued by the band with co-writing credits to both Billy Corgan and James Iha. It charted on the UK Singles Chart at a peak position of number 73. Two recordings of the song were released. One was recorded in 1990 and was the Pumpkins' first release and first on Limited Potential. This recording was financed with the money from Corgan's college tuition fund left by his grandmother. "I Am One" was re-recorded for Gish and a new single was released on Caroline Records and Hut Recordings. Corgan later stated his regret with not re-working the song for Gish, as the two versions are nearly identical. A video for the song was also filmed, but never released (until 2001) due to the band being unhappy with the result. Footage from the video was instead used on the long form video, Vieuphoria, the long version of the music video was released on the Greatest Hits Video Collection. With only 1500 copies pressed, the release is highly sought after by collectors. There are apparently three test pressings also in existence, two owned by Billy Corgan and one was formally owned by Limited Potential owner, Mike Potential."I Am One" features a doubled guitar solo – a technique later used on Pumpkins songs like "Ava Adore", "Tarantula", and "Bring the Light". The music video features a live performance by the band. 


Year:
1991
4:07
98 

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I am one as you are three
Try to find messiah in your trinity
Your city to burn
Your city to burn
Try to look for something
In your city to burn, you'll burn
Am I as I seem?
I'm down
Down, so down 

Time is right for a guiding light
Try to turn to reasons in your bitter life
Your city to burn
Your city to burn
Try to look for something
In your city to burn, you'll burn

See you, don't you just want to
See you, I am one
See you, don't you just want to
See you

See you, don't you just want to
See you, I am one
See you, don't you just want to
See you, I am one

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Smashing Pumpkins

The Smashing Pumpkins are an American alternative rock band from Chicago, Illinois, formed in 1988. Formed by frontman Billy Corgan (lead vocals, lead guitar) and James Iha (rhythm guitar), the band has included Jimmy Chamberlin (drums), D'arcy Wretzky (bass guitar), Melissa Auf der Maur (bass guitar), and currently includes Mike Byrne (drums), Nicole Fiorentino (bass guitar, backing vocals), and Jeff Schroeder (rhythm guitar) among its membership. more »

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Written by: WILLIAM PATRICK CORGAN, JAMES YOSHINOBU IHA

Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Creation & Early Success
"I Am One" was the debut single by Smashing Pumpkins. It was released in 1990 and immediately won critical acclaim and underground success, eventually attracting the attention of big record labels.
Record Label
The song was initially released on the band's own label, Limited Potential Records. It was subsequently re-recorded and included in their debut studio album, "Gish," which was released in 1991 under Caroline Records and Virgin Records.
Song Lyrics
The song's lyrics were written by Billy Corgan, the lead vocalist, guitarist, and main songwriter of Smashing Pumpkins. He is known for his evocative lyrics that often deal with personal issues and feelings.
Musical Style
"I Am One" is noted for its unique musical style that combines elements of alternative rock, heavy metal, and psychedelia. This distinctive sound would become a signature of the Smashing Pumpkins' music.
Production
The song was produced by Butch Vig, who is widely known for producing Nirvana's legendary album "Nevermind." Vig's production skills played a crucial role in shaping the Smashing Pumpkins' sound.
Song's Designation
"I Am One" is designated as the first track on the "Gish" album, which further signifies its importance in the band's discography.
Limited Edition Release
The song's initial 1990 release was a limited edition of 1,500 7" vinyl copies. Despite the limited quantity, it sold out quickly and became a collector's item.
Reissues
"I Am One" was reissued several times, including as a 12" single in 1992 in the U.K. Each version usually included different B-sides, making them collectible items among fans.
Band Members' Contributions
The rhythm guitar parts in "I Am One" were played by James Iha, and the bass was handled by D'arcy Wretzky. The pounding drums, which are a standout element of the song, were played by Jimmy Chamberlin.
Live Performances
“I Am One” is often used as an opening song during Smashing Pumpkins live concerts, setting the energetic tone for the rest of the show.

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