Yungblud has officially announced a new darker collaboration version of his song “Zombie” with rock legends The Smashing Pumpkins, scheduled to arrive worldwide on January 2, 2026, with the accompanying music video set to debut shortly after.
The announcement came via Yungblud’s social media on New Year’s Day, where he shared images alongside Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan and members of the band, confirming that this reimagined rendition will be released at midnight in key global markets, with release times listed for cities including London, Los Angeles, New York, Paris, Mexico City and São Paulo.
In statements about the collaboration, Yungblud explained that the original version of “Zombie,” which appears on his 2025 album Idols, was inspired by The Smashing Pumpkins’ music and specifically channels the sound of their Siamese Dream era. He said he had long envisioned a heavier take on the track and reached out to Corgan to help bring that version to life.
The upcoming release positions this version of “Zombie” as distinct from the original, which has already earned a nomination for Best Rock Song at the 2026 Grammy Awards, and follows Yungblud’s recent acoustic reinterpretation of the track that debuted in December 2025.
Fans have reacted with high anticipation on social platforms, sharing excitement for the cross-generation pairing of Yungblud with The Smashing Pumpkins and the promise of a heavier, more aggressive iteration of the emotionally charged rock single.
