As someone who only really became a DT fan this year, I can say I was one of those who had trouble appreciating James at first. I kind of ignored the band for many years, not only because I had trouble connecting with the music (especially the overindulgence at times), but I also sort of (unfairly) lumped JLB in with other screeching "hair metal" singers that I was very tired of by the end of the 80s.
Fast forward to 2021 and as I finally warmed up to the catalog, I realized how wrong I was about James. Not only did I become able to accept him, I began to see just what a strength he is in the band's overall presentation. He has such a versatile voice and is really the perfect fit for DT and all the different moods their music taps into. Now I can't imagine, nor would I want, to hear anyone else behind the mic.