frog, interesting point about instrumentalists studying or reciting lyrics. I never gave that much consideration before, but it makes sense. Simply playing the musical lines of a song can allow improvisation. But knowing the lyrics should allow more insight into the intent of the composer, and thus suggest more essence in the interpretation.
mahgister, I'd say you are more on a roll than on a rant. I agree that my most favored musicians are those who can "speak" with their instruments. Regardless of the type of music -- jazz, blues, classical, world music, etc. -- it is the performer's ability to express their emotion that really speaks to me.