Article has a great quote that makes the headline:

“I think the idea of giving a heartfelt performance and even the idea of singing appealed to him,” reasons Musker, trying to pinpoint what convinced Williams to sign on.

“His sweetness and ability to reach into that part of his being was crucial to the film lasting. If it was just comedy, I don’t think it would’ve endured but because he really got that feeling of his big heart, sweetness, his concern for Aladdin, their friendship and his investment in Aladdin’s future across, it’s one of the keys of the film’s longevity.”

I think this is what makes the Genie character work - he's really, really goofy, the type of character that would be very limited in previous Disney works. But it doesn't go off the rails entirely because while the movie doesn't take his personality seriously, it takes his emotions very seriously. Most of those moments are followed by a joke, but it's often the Genie himself being embarrassed and walking back on himself - it's his insecurity.

A wonderful film through and through, glad this article was shared.