I think that there are probably more songs than there are accents, Al, so your analogy about only using one colour is not really valid. And just who is making rules? I don't recall anyone on here doing so.

As for people who sing in their own accents not having any ability or imagination, are you seriously suggesting that to be a true artist you have to pretend that you are someone else? Surely those who are able to interpret any song in their own style deserve some credit.

FWIW I think your faux American accent on St Peter and John Dillinger works well but I have no idea if it is accurate. Or Why St. Peter needed it as well :-)

If it floats your boat, fine. But why suggest that people who don't indulge in playacting are somehow inferior?