I think Daryl has one of the best voices ever. Then, we used to do an arts festival in Baltimore. Three days of all kinds of music. African, Cajun, some local talent, and always a big name headliner. I ended up mixing Diana Ross, Etta James, and lots of others.
Nobody wants to work with a whiner.
A good technical base is also essential. Learn everything you can. Unfortunately, I'm learning that contacts and schmoozing are important too. Yeah, that's Catherine Russell. It's such a privlege to work with this band.