Adam Kowalczyk, Member of the Band? Options

[lynn32701]

Okay, I really hate to admit this but I never knew who Adam Kowalczyk was until recently! I know, I know. I've been a fan of LIVE since 94 and I've always known the band LIVE as Ed, Pat and the Chads. I've been to concerts, I've seen Adam up on stage (and recent shows, right up front, alongside Chad). Ed nevers "introduces" the band while performing so I just thought he was some guy that toured w/the band. I've seen his name on the CD sleeves as "the band would like to thank ...". I think V, he's listed as a band member, if I remember correct?

I FINALLY made the connection when I saw Adam's MySpace page and realized who this guitarist/singer was all these years! So my question, whether it merits a long discussion, why isn't Adam listed as a true member of the band? He tours w/the guys, he's on the albums. Is he the equivalent of the "Fifth Beatle"? Does the band have a budget and can only name "so many" band members?! Adam is a wonderful singer, performer, guitarist ... and should be recognized as a true member of the band! Just my two cents ...

[FishOutaWater]

I think the guys will always honor the 4 members of the band from the beginning by not officially adding Adam, and I think they are probably all cool with that. As far as money goes, that probably makes the most sense too because the earnings from the performances are probably derived in large part by the success of the band's early work before Adam came along. They wouldn't make as much to perform if it wasn't for the franchise that was developed by Ed, Pat, Chad and Chad. I'm guessing, but Adam probably gets some kind of fee to perform but doesn't share as an equal member. I am personally happy with the way Adam's role has fit into the band. I like that the 4 guys are still Live. The philosophical reason why they haven't added Adam is probably congruent with the same philosophical reason for why they will probably never break up and don't do material solo projects. That something that makes Live the great thing that it is. Incidentally, Ed did introduce each person on stage at the Starland Ballroom and it was pretty cool. It was especially funny when he said the other guys would tour with Chris Daughtry on vocals, then acted like he flipped out when the crowd cheered.