by Greg Kot, Chicago Tribune

On Friday, a post on the Smashing Pumpkins Web site announced the departure of drummer Jimmy Chamberlin, Billy Corgan’s primary collaborator in the band since 1988. On Tuesday, Chamberlin told his side of the story on his Web site, jimmychamberlincomplex.com:

“By now you have heard the news of my departure from the Smashing Pumpkins. I will say, without going into any unnecessary details that this represents a positive move forward for me. I can no longer commit all of my energy into something that I don’t fully possess. I won’t pretend I’m into something I’m not. I won’t do it to myself, you the fan, or my former partner. I can’t just, “Cash the check” so to speak. Music is my life. It is sacred. It deserves the highest commitment at every level and the Pumpkins are certainly no different. I’m sorry but it really IS that simple. There is no drama, bad blood, or anything else but a full commitment to music. My best goes out to Billy and I’m glad he has chosen to continue under the name. It is his right. I will continue to make music with the Jimmy Chamberlin Complex as well as pursuing other musical interests. I feel that I have a long way to go and a lot to give. Thanks to everyone for your kind words and support through all of this. I am constantly humbled by all of you! It is an honor and a privilege to play music for a living and I don’t take it for granted not even for a second.”

In the original post on smashingpumpkins.com, Corgan was said to be returning to the studio in the spring to begin recording new music as Smashing Pumpkins, even though he is the only remaining original member.