Austin, I agree with you, but only on a purely ideal, theoretical level. It would be wonderful to have all things equal, but that would only happen in a perfect world. I actually have to agree more with Freypower’s views that in the real world, equal democracy is not only impractical, but virtually non-existent. I could go on and on as to why this is, but I don’t want to get too philosophical or deep here. However, can anyone here think of a single social, economic, religious, or political philosophy or entity that is based on pure equality and has no hierarchical structure? I can’t - even our most basic socio-economic unit, the family, is not purely democratic. Heck, we even have line-leaders in kindergarten. No matter what the entity or what the original intentions may be, inevitably, a hierarchy forms in any organized unit with some members emerging as leaders. Sometimes, it’s peaceful and other times it’s a struggle – but, fair or not, it happens. It seems to be the natural order, so I guess Darwinism is alive and well in our imperfect world.Originally Posted by WalshFan88
Again I admire your idealistic views, but the reality is that the moment a band begins to earn money, it becomes a business. Or at least, it better be - if not, then members could likely go to jail for income tax evasion among many other things.Originally Posted by WalshFan88
I happen to believe they are equally important in most cases – it’s that darn democracy thing creeping back in me again, I guess. However, it obviously depends on the song and whether the vocals or instrumental are more prominent. But, again, while the music may move you more than lyrics or vocals, that is not the case for everyone. So, speaking in generalities, it seems more fair and objective to give them equal credit.Originally Posted by WalshFan88
So, bottom line for me, given that fact that you specified the lead singer as the frontman in your opening post, I voted for the lead singer in your poll. Although I understand what you are saying about the instrumentals, I honestly believe most people identify more with the “voice” in a band. I know I do and that’s why I have so much appreciation for bands that have multiple lead vocalists. But, the truth is, even though I would miss any prominent band member in a band, I would miss Steven more than Joe in Aerosmith or Jon more than Richie in Bon Jovi. I’m not saying that’s right, I saying that’s just the way it is.