Good answer, Frank. I believe the operative phrase you used is "understanding the music." To do that means listening, more listening (live as well as recorded, if you can), and really hearing those songs as sung by those who were born to them. Also agree that the idea is to osmose (is that a word?) the "feel" rather than try to pull off an imitation of someone else's style. Probably doesn't work, anyhow, and diminishes the source.

But traditional or honestly non-trad., I'm happy so many people are singing for the songs. Can't get into too much mischief while making music.

Joan Sprung