I always come back to this video when I think about all the stuff that happened, very strong video. Richie wasn't on tour when this was released was he ?

Yeah, I almost forgot how fitting that song (and especially the video) is. Makes me shiver...

I watched this a few months back and found it fitting too. It just goes to show how much has changed. They do a video like this back then but now they don't even speak by the sounds of it. Obviously, the whole situation is different with him walking out or whatever but it is mad.

That video had me thinking they were going to call it a day in 2008!

I always pictured that song as Jon talking to the fans that don't approve the new direction the band took.

It's a song about divorce and was written before Richie ever took a break from the band. The lyrics "I close my eyes and picture your hand in mine" take any Richie - Jon connotations away from the song for me.

The connection ist that jon wrote it for richie. He said this once.

I meant that there's no connection with Richie leaving the band or Jon & Richie falling out.

No it doesn't - but I still think he's drinking.

I never said Jon isn't surrounded by yes men. I'm sure he rarely, if ever, hears the word no. Sure, Richie has the right to be his own man and do his own thing. But that doesn't change the fact that he left in the middle of the tour and is generally just coming across as a dumbarse in interviews. Richie wasn't Jon's b*itch the past 30 years, he enjoyed all the success and fame just as much as Jon. I don't think that Richie was crying about being more artistic and Jon got out his whip and put him back in his place. He just has a different perspective on it now. He wants everyone to think he is this artistic, soulful artist. Bon Jovi is just as much Richie as it is Jon. Now, I want to make clear that I don't think Jon is an angel. As I mentioned, he really needs to reevaluate where the band is going and get back to basics.

As far as Richie drinking - its not such a far fetched thought. As far as him abusing other substances such as pills - again not far fetched since he has struggled with this in the past. As far as my comment about him having a mental disorder, its not like I'm suggesting he has schizophrena. However, extended alcohol abuse does affect your brain. Alcohol and substance abuse are in and off themselves classifies as mental disorders. He just seems wacky to me.

My ASSumption(very clever:rolleyes:) is based on his appearance, behavior and performance. But since Richie assured you he is NOT drinking, I am clearly wrong.

And now I'm done getting into arguments online with people I don't even know on a forum where we should "discuss" our favorite band.:(