Collectively, we could compile a long list of very challenged singers with top ten hits. At the same time we could compile a long list of absolutely gifted singers who went nowhere. Sometimes it's a matter of who they knew or didn't know, but a lot of times it's a matter of uniqueness, and the ability to emote. It's also a matter of great songwriting and being just good enough of a singer to let the song be great. Most import is being able to reach people.
I too wish I had a better voice to work with, and I work hard at it. The funny thing is, like my golf swing, if I think about it while I'm doing it it's no good. When I'm singing in front of an audience and I'm thinking about how I'm singing, not what I'm singing, I look out and see disinterest. When I get lost in the song instead, the audience knows it and goes on the trip with me. The same thing happens with recording, and you have to be careful not to erase a take that really nails it where it counts, because your listening too critically to the technical qualities of the take.
-RD
I too wish I had a better voice to work with, and I work hard at it. The funny thing is, like my golf swing, if I think about it while I'm doing it it's no good. When I'm singing in front of an audience and I'm thinking about how I'm singing, not what I'm singing, I look out and see disinterest. When I get lost in the song instead, the audience knows it and goes on the trip with me. The same thing happens with recording, and you have to be careful not to erase a take that really nails it where it counts, because your listening too critically to the technical qualities of the take.
-RD