Originally Posted by JackieBlue

This captures my feelings perfectly, except for two relatively minor details. First, I would add Richie's harmonies and backing vocals because I think they were as critical as his guitar, if not more so. And second, I think Richie does cherish the band's legacy.

To my knowledge, Richie has never said anything to suggest that he wants to be remembered for his solo work, rather than the work he's done in Bon Jovi. It seems to me that he simply wants to be recognized as a musician in his own right as well, apart from the band. To be seen as something other than just Jon's wingman, if you will. I can't fault him for that.

I know a lot of people think some of Richie's comments have been disrespectful to the band and its legacy; and they have every right to that interpretion. I just don't see it the same way because he's made too many similar comments in the past - before there was ever any reason to think he might have something against the band.

But to answer the OP's question: last night I was looking for an article that I recalled someone citing in the No Richie On the Current Leg thread. In the middle of a discussion about the video contest Richie had for AOTL, I ran across an exchange that pretty much sums up how I would feel about Richie returning to the band.












I think it's sad that people have allowed "the last four [years]", or more specifically, the events of one night four years ago to somehow erase the commitment Richie showed for thirty years.

Granted, some of the anger towards him goes back even further, to the cancelled shows in 2012. I get that. I was caught up in those cancellations, too. So I understand the disappointment. I just can't understand still holding on to a grudge after all these years.

But maybe that's just me. As I've said before, I can't hold on to a grudge with Superglue. As far as I'm concerned, life's too short for that kind of nonsense; but to each his own.