Can't disagree with any of that, Jim. I used to be a 'reader', and I swore that I couldn't remember lyrics, but by spending a great deal of time and effort I found songs were 'sticking' and I began to experience and enjoy the freedom of singing/playing without needing to read the words.

I'm still not word-perfect with a few of my songs, but I lay my iPad on a stool alongside me and, if I get stuck for a line, I can glance down and get a prompt. For me, the indignity of having to peer at the iPad for a few seconds is preferable to completely 'drying' and having to stop mid-song. But I understand that not everyone sees it that way! ;-)

I do have to say that I really don't like the 'big black music-stand' phenomenon that's all-too-prevalent nowadays, where performers basically 'hide' behind the stand with only their eyes and the tops of their heads visible but, if it gives them sufficient confidence at least to sing/play, I can tolerate it in the hope that their confidence will grow and they will take the time and trouble eventually to do it 'au naturel'! :-)