I Am One is the debut single by 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. The single was released in August 24, 1992 (Gish version). 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.
Tracklist:
- I Am One
- Not Worth Asking
The Smashing Pumpkins
Billy Corgan: vocals, guitar, production
James Iha (as “James” on Limited Potential) – guitar, photography (Gish version)
D’arcy Wretzky: bass guitar
Jimmy Chamberlin: drums
Technical personnel
Kerry Brown: production, CD single b-sides
Butch Vig: production, Gish version
Lynne Fischer: design, photography (Limited Potential)
