" The old jazz singers or old blues singers, you always just saw them kind of sitting down and singing. They weren’t worried as much about their voice sounding perfect. They would make the song kind of fit their voice. "
- Lucinda Williams

In Lucinda Williams's observation, she notes how older jazz and blues singers often approached their performances with a more relaxed attitude. Instead of striving for vocal perfection or technical precision, these performers allowed their unique voices to shape the song rather than the other way around.

This quote highlights a profound shift in musical performance aesthetics over time. Older artists embodied a spirit of authenticity that placed greater value on emotional expression and individuality. They believed that making music was about conveying personal stories and emotions through their voice, even if it meant deviating from conventional singing techniques or pitch accuracy. This approach fostered a deeper connection between the artist and the audience by emphasizing the singer's unique voice and style over technical perfection.

Lucinda Williams is an acclaimed American country, folk, and rock musician known for her distinctive poetic lyrics and storytelling through song. Born in 1953 in Louisiana, she has been influential in blending various musical genres to create a sound that resonates with listeners seeking genuine emotional depth in music. Her insights into the art of singing reflect both her admiration for past traditions and her own approach to creating meaningful and authentic musical experiences.