bapu
"I don't believe a record is ever sold or not sold because a hi-hat was slightly harsher or because it was 2db higher or lower." Ken Scott, Mix Magazine Interview, July 2012
Then again, he can afford to say that, right?
I think in context it isn't about the hi-hats at all particularly it's about the pre-occupation of needlessly skinning farts, and I agree with him if that is the point he's actually making.
I have a few vocal tracks culled from hit records and I'd say the major part of any commercial appeal is alredy right there in those performances.