That's all there is to say about this. Even if they decided to keep Phil ready for insurance somehow, I don't think they would have him travelling the world with them only to sleep in luxury hotels and take pictures while out and about. He would probably arrange it to be "a call away" and available to fly in at any time.

Unless they just keep him playing on stage too.

Actually the thought of Jon even feeling the need to have him on stand-by is a little disconcerting. You either feel Richie is reliable or you don't. (Yes I know this was just speculation on someone's part.)

So Obie lied?

True... I still think it would be awkward to have someone who's been your lead guitarist now playing rhythm or whatever in the back. You know, have the two "titans" on stage at the same time... But yeah, it would be a great way to have him available at all times.

Although...

...I think Jon's grown tired of playing this game, so my guess is it will probably be one way or the other, as you say. Whoever (Richie, Phil, my grandma) will be playing guitar on that stage in the years to come will have to be 100% reliable.

O-kaaayyyy.

First, I really was teasing and that IS why I included the icon. I didn't mean for it to be an insult because the way I read the statement I was responding to, I thought YOU were kidding about yourself not ever making any statements like that. Guess not. I'll keep that in mind the next time you post something like, "What? And not blame Evil Jon for it? No way." I guess that really WAS a dig at me, but I gave you the benefit of the doubt. Lesson learned.

Second, I haven't noticed that you've been especially protective of my feelings up to this point - so why start now? What "worthless derogatory shit" are you referring to, other than my first post for which you crawled all over my ass, then seemed to accept my apology. Or maybe THAT was you kidding? It's hard to tell.

Third, according to nrm123, I (and I guess my comments) don't count , so why should you care anyway?

Fourth, I guess your response answers my question about whether you were serious or just forgot the icon. If that then is the dare it seems to be, consider it accepted. While I'm following your instructions... why don't you see if you can locate any quotes of mine where I've made speculative comments without indicating that they are speculation (i.e., what I "think" or "my opinion") and share with class.

(And don't worry about being insulting on my account... I'm a big girl with thick skin. I can take it or I never would have posted the first time. I may have just joined 2 weeks ago, but I've lurked here for years and know how people can rip apart anyone who posts something they don't agree with.)

Although, could you blame Jon? Nothing against Richie but he hasn't been reliable on the last few tours. Jon needs backup.

Ya think?? Sheesh! But thanks anyway. ;)

Oh come on... Phil's a session musician. Nothing more. Richie's a legend.