I'd think that when he and Paul were conceiving this Meat was thinking in terms of being a part of the show, not singing but telling stories about working with Jim, touring etc (remember he also had in his mind to write a book of stories "One Hundred Moments") .. like Durante, he has a million of 'em
.. and he loves to interact with a live audience. The jumping-the-gun website referred to him being part of the show in that way, as do the recent press teasers.
What's thrown a spanner in the works is the extent of his back surgery, and lengthier and harder rehabilitation than I think he'd hoped for
I can see the appeal of a residency ... he could take an apartment, travel a short distance to and from the venue on show days, and cut out all the stress and strain of hauling ass from place to place. But I think if he was part of the show it would need to be a constant throughout the residency (or indeed any tour in the US). People need to know what they're buying tickets for after all.
He's doing this Comic Con thing in London at the end of this month because he made the commitment a long time ago, but that's an uncomfortable pond crossing and three days sitting and meeting fans. I really don't expect him to be touring in the UK this year .. they're announcing details around the time he's here, and at this stage in his recovery it would be really chancing things imo. Whether or not he'll be able at some point down the line to be an active part of the show is in the lap of the gods .. and so very disappointing and frustrating for him