Ugly

Smashing Pumpkins · Aeroplane Flies High [1996]

I don't look in the mirror

I don't like what I see staring back at me

Everything is clearer

I'll never see what you see

It's not me

So beautiful and free

I'll never be what you need

Can't help at all

I was born so beautiful

But now I'm ugly

And I rot in my skin

As a piece of me dies everyday

I know I'm nothing

I know there's nothing I can say

To change

The judgment in their ways

I'll never be what you need

Can't help at all

My love was so beautiful

But now I'm ugly, yeah

I'm good enough but I don't care

I'm good enough but I'm not there

I'm good enough but I don't care

The sun is out, but I'm not there

I'm good enough but I don't care

The sun is out, but I'm not there

I'm good enough

I'm good enough

I don't look in the mirror

I don't like what I see staring back at me

Everything is clearer

I'll never see what you see

And I rot in my skin

As a piece of me dies everyday

I know I'm nothing

Because I'm ugly

Ugly

Ugly stands as a standout track from the Smashing Pumpkins' 1996 compilation, Aeroplane Flies High. Emerging during a period of intense creativity following the monumental success of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, the song captures the band's signature blend of heavy distortion and melodic introspection. Billy Corgan's songwriting on this recording reflects the darker, more experimental textures that defined the group's mid-nineties output. While often overshadowed by the double album's massive singles, Ugly remains a vital piece of the band's extensive catalogue, showcasing their ability to craft emotionally resonant rock anthems. The track exemplifies the alternative rock sound that propelled the Chicago quartet to international prominence, offering listeners a concise yet powerful glimpse into their evolving sonic landscape during this prolific era.