Billy Corgan explains why he wants to win auction of Courtney Love ‘Violet’ lyrics

Billy Corgan, frontman of The Smashing Pumpkins, is looking to win a piece of rock history—a set of handwritten lyrics to Hole’s iconic song Violet—which is currently up for auction by his ex-girlfriend, Courtney Love. The auction, which is raising funds for the Ellis Park Wildlife Sanctuary, has caught the attention of many fans, especially those curious about the song’s connection to Corgan and Love’s turbulent relationship.

In a video posted recently, Corgan explained his interest in winning the auction. “Now, it’s made a lot of press this week that this auction’s going off, so I’ve actually bought my ticket because I’d like to win these lyrics,” he shared. “I think it’s about a guy I know a little bit, and I’d love to put that on my wall.” His lighthearted, almost nostalgic tone seemed to suggest that while the lyrics hold personal significance, the gesture isn’t just about ownership—it’s also about honoring a moment in his life that has since become part of rock lore.

Fans of Violet have long speculated that Corgan, who briefly dated Love in the early ‘90s, was the inspiration for the song. Released in 1994 as part of Hole’s Live Through This album, the track is a raw, emotional anthem of youthful rebellion and inner turmoil. Love has addressed these rumors in the past, explaining that while the song might have personal ties to her relationship with Corgan, it’s also about much more than that.

In an interview with NME, Love clarified, “It’s not just about Billy Corgan, as many might assume; it’s about sitting on the fire escape of his flat, sipping cheap wine and taking a Vicodin (oh, to be young!) while the Chicago sun sets, leaving behind a bejeweled amethyst sky.” Her words paint a picture of the intense, fleeting moments of their relationship, but also hint at the broader existential themes in the song.

However, in Corgan’s video, he jokingly offered a different perspective, adding text over the footage that read, “She forgot to mention that I wrote one of the heart-rending couplets contained therein. But I will always love this song. Love you, Court.” The playful jab, coupled with his heartfelt sentiment, shows that despite their past, Corgan has a deep appreciation for the track—whether or not it fully reflects his experience.

The song Violet is one of Hole’s defining tracks, and its history is closely intertwined with the early ’90s grunge scene. It represents a moment of emotional rawness and a snapshot of a turbulent time for both Love and Corgan. Their relationship, brief yet intense, has long been the subject of public fascination, with the song often viewed as a window into that period. The auction of these lyrics has sparked renewed interest in the story behind the song and its impact on both artists’ careers.

The proceeds from the auction will benefit the Ellis Park Wildlife Sanctuary, adding a layer of philanthropy to the rock-star drama. The auction is set to run until December 15, giving fans and collectors alike the opportunity to place their bids on this legendary piece of music history.

For Corgan, this auction is more than just a chance to win a physical artifact—it’s a way to close a chapter of his life. Whether or not he wins, the gesture signifies a reconciliation of sorts between the past and present. Corgan’s acknowledgment of the song’s significance, both personally and professionally, underscores the emotional weight that Violet still holds for him—even years after his relationship with Love ended.

As the auction continues, it will be interesting to see how much the lyrics go for and whether Corgan’s bid will be enough to claim the prize. Whatever the outcome, one thing is clear: Violet remains a song that resonates deeply with both its creators, and with fans who continue to dissect the layers of meaning behind its haunting lyrics.