What I was thinking is that they might be choosing songs they like and their likes might lean to a particular preference, which might not always be the best choice. Kind of like the gals that all want to sing Whitney, even though they can't, but that doesn't stop them from trying! lol
I think I know what you mean about Johns' sound. Going back to Paula seeing them sing in colors. He would be monochromatic.
Yep. That's as good a way as any to put it. You're also right that many of the contestants choose songs that don't really suit their styles.