Array / shape key combo.

i wanted to know if there is a way to morph array objects sequentially with a shape key.

i created a spinal column and I’m not really happy with it.

i know i could apply the array and tweak the individual shape keys but i don’t want the new geometry.

Since you can access only the initial array object in edit mode i doubt you could use shape keys.
Lattice modifier works on all Array elements. Hooks can be assigned to the lattice points and these could be further animated or attached to the armature.