I think missing Richie was a part of 2013 and finishing the tour - the energy lagged but with each show they seemed to be moving on bit by bit. If you've lived more than a couple of decades you know that emotional distress will effect the physical - so yes - in 2013 perhaps that was a part - but not anymore. Plus, Tico getting sick when it was maybe becoming the new normal threw another issue. They do seem to be having a good time now, at least Phil is- I don't sense any sadness or longing - I've not had time to watch the videos yet but after reading some of the reviews I hope I hear better than I am expecting, but it's imo physical now and has been since late 2013 and nothing to do with Richie. It could be confidence lagging - in his own ability however.


SweetMisery asks: --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The question is, do casuals(majority of concert goers) notice or even bothered? Or just us hardcores?


I wanted to say it depends on how many beers you've had before the show starts.... but seriously - I don't think casuals and even some hardcores notice. Most people, myself included go to enjoy the moment, I'm more prone to be critical watching a video than live because there is so much more to the moment than one voice. When you see a majority of negative, especially from casuals then you know it was a clusterF....... If people who pay good money walk out - you have a serious problem. So far, at least the general social media I read, that's not happening yet.

Anyone else remember when Steven Tyler was having vocal issues and he had vocal cord surgery? Made a big improvement for him - can't help but wonder if that may be in Jon's future because I don't think he wants or is ready to stop.