More, more, more!
So far solos (exaggerating for comic intent) - make songs that are too short longer - make songs that are too long seem shorter - keep the audience hooked (dramatic effect) - give the audience a mental time-out - give the egos/creative juices of the instrumentalists a workout - enhance/support the song - allow a period of musical wallpaper - give the singer a rest - allow for a senior moment
Why do we bother with songs at all? It seems the solo is the musician's most versatile tool.
Michael
P.S. Jeff, I would love to accomodate but the rest of my lifetime is devoted to getting everything to concert pitch at the same time.