What if.. Stevie had left the band instead of Christine?

[HejiraNYC]

Originally Posted by seekerj

If you really want to know what it would have sounded like, just listen to the "Tango In The Night" album.

Excellent point! And then there's also Christine's cover of "Can't Help Falling in Love" featuring everyone except Stevie. Indeed, Stevie is practically absent on Tango except for the 2.5 songs she offered, and from what I can tell, she can barely be heard on any background vocals except for "Little Lies." By contrast, Christine's voice is featured very prominently in Lindsey's songs, e.g., "Caroline," "Big Love," etc. "Seven Wonders" was one of the less successful singles from the album whereas Christine's singles and "Big Love" were Top Ten smashes all over the world.

So I think the verdict is that FM would have continued to sell tons of albums with Christine's catchy pop ditties and Lindsey's pristine/eccentric production. But I think it would have been problematic in the live setting. If you think Lindsey overshadows Stevie now, his stage presence would have blown Christine out of the arena. I love me some Christine, but she has never been known for her enigmatic stage presence; she knows how to rock out, but she always remained in the background in a decidedly non-theatrical, undramatic manner. If you wanted keyboards, Christine delivered. If you wanted great singing, Christine delivered. If you wanted drama and vulnerability, Christine would tell you to get stuffed. By contrast, Lindsey is all too willing to please. There is no pretense with him- what you see is what you get. And he delivers a lot of energy, a lot of flair and a lot of enthusiasm. But as much as he connects with the audience with his showmanship, he still maintains an emotional distance and a total lack of vulnerability. The result is that a show led by Lindsey and Christine alone would be solid musically and energetic, but it would be a bit like a Lindsey solo concert with special guests. And we all know how well Lindsey solo concerts were selling.