Looks like my job in this thread is to drop in Language Log links. Here's some information on vocal fry (another phenomenon perennially trotted out as coming back or expanding):

http://languagelog.ldc.upenn.edu/nll/?p=3626

Here's a good rant on vocal fry, exaggerated for effect: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UsE5mysfZsY

The sad thing is that I know someone who talks exactly like this.

Male example: VICE Correspondent Hamilton Morris - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fRTk9F9FGU#t=103