Times like today, I think of another high level talent from that era: Natalie Cole. She was a fine entertainer, but got wound up with substance abuse and flamed out after just a few years. Natalie started out studying law and was well into her 20s before even trying to hone her natural music skills.
Yes, Natalie had a beautiful voice. I love the "duet" she did with her father, Nat "King" Cole, of "Unforgettable."