As a reference I like to use:

Drums.... sure beats a metronome
Bass
Acoustic guitar or piano
Lead instrument for solo's so I know where they are. (sometimes not)

I want a simple reference to follow. I often mute everything else including other vocal tracks depending of course on what I'm in the process of recording.

It can vary from one song to the next. I have been known to use the full finished mix as a reference because I record the finished vocal tracks last. Up to that point I have a simple scratch vocal for a place holder.

You can find my music at:
www.herbhartley.com
Add nothing that adds nothing to the music.
You can make excuses or you can make progress but not both.

The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding.