I like what the list does for joints that I want to make it, and that recognition can make a difference. Tyler's in Amarillo made Top 5 on one list or another in the past year, and I saw multiple folks in the past few months who were either visiting with Tyler about it( he likes to talk with folks in line, especially right at opening.) or talking about it at the tables. That part is good in the "smaller towns/" non-metro areas. See also Rejinos in Olton and Evie Mae's in Wolfforth.
That being said, being on that list can make the lines stupid long in the cities. It's just how it goes. If Franklin drops off the list, it will do zero to impact his reputation or that of his product. Y'all know it. He knows it. Everyone knows it, 'cept for the amateurs. I walked into Terry Blacks in Dallas last week at 11:30 AM with buddies and there were 3 people ahead of us. Everything about our meal was fantastic, but I very rarely hear them mentioned as "elite." Had Corkscrew in Spring about 2 months ago and waited about 15minutes in line. IDGAF if they ever make a list. I know it's gonna be world class brisket and excellent whatever else I order.