At the Getaway I frequently noticed that the (singing) audience muted their input until the lead singer's phrasing became clear. (I am in awe of FSGW and the Mudcatters in those audiences.)

With my singing partner, I frequently alter phrasing that strikes me as awkward or silly. I know a woman (Heavens forbid- NOT KT!) who sings 'comfort' in 'How Can I keep from Singing' as 'com FORT'. Now, tell me that ain't silly.

Same reasoning with 'Tennessee Waltz'. I sing 'beautiful' as one recognizable word by holding the space after it just a tad longer. I don't like the oft heard, plodding 'bee yew tee full'.