you know i think there are some singers who were not really sexy or attractive and because their music or the lyrics touched the people they became some "wanted men" i think it's the same for women.
Look at Michael Jackson, his fans find him attractive and in France we have a very good exemple, he's called Eddy Mitchel, he's a great singer - started in the 60's - a beautiful voice and he was dressed and all a la Elvis, we call him Mister Eddy All the women were mad when he was somewhere a real hysteria and believe me he's far from the good looking guy in general

so i guess, is the talent is here, i think the success will be the same.
I don't think Richie is a good looking man you know (sorry girls, just my opinion ), and i LOVE his music and his voice ..... on the other hand, i can't name even ONE band, singer or actor i like for his physical, honestly i can't listen to music or watch a film and pretend i like it if i don't find the artist talented.