This is my first post on Shadow Music - hello to everyone
- despite having been a Shadows fan for six years or so. I was a late starter - but thankfully got to see them on the 50th Reunion Tour and shake hands with them at HMV Oxford Street, plus I was at Shadowmania in 2010 and 2011.
I wanted to post having read the previous posts regarding popular lead guitarist Phil Kelly. The thing is, I can't imagine many sectors where someone would be allowed to work if they were ill. 'Employers' have difficult decisions to make sometimes - but it could be seen as irresponsible to allow someone to work when ill, regardless of how much that person wants to work. There are insurance considerations too I'm sure. So, in our world of heightened health and safety awareness, I can understand any decision to play it extremely safe.
There are practical considersations too. Given 1,000 or so people will be journeying to see this last Shadowmania, the headline band needs a full set of musicians without the risk of someone pulling out last minute.
Perhaps though given the weight of demand to see Phil Kelly one last time, he could guest with one of the other bands for a few tunes in the same way Jet Harris and Licorice Locking have done in the past. That way he appears but can pull out too if he's not feeling well on the day.
One other thing - surely Shadowmania could continue with a different name with a whole host of tribute bands and perhaps the occasional appearance from the key members. Don't you think?