Classic! Long time Chef John’s subscriber here. I was there before his channel and “his brand” was partnered with Allrecipes.com
As to his lilting speech - you’re right, it used to be less pronounced, but over time it became part of his brand and it’s just so entertaining. I love the cadence, love the “you are after all the (rhyming word) of your (foodstuff)”. He has great recipes, perfect for every day meals, this chisaupepo, for example, is in heavy rotation in my household.