I don't think the band could have done it without Richie. But they couldn't have made it if a lot of other factors didn't work out. What I mean to say is, without Richie, there would be no Wanted, Prayer, or Bad Name. At least, they wouldn't sound like the classics they are today. But Desmond Child co-wrote Prayer and Bad Name along with Jon and Richie. Without him, they might not have been number one hits. Then there are things like producers, the other band members, etc. (Just look at Becky's list and you'll see what I mean.)