I remember being totally knocked out by a Dolly Parton version of 'Barbara Allan' which opened with an Irish Gaelic verse and moved into Dolly (with accompaniment) singing a long, full version with complete commitment.
I really felt I was with her in the original family singing of the ballad.... and it was entirely unexpected!
There may have been some breathiness in the performance, but it was infused with a real emotional involvement, so thanks, Dolly!