Legacy.

The people we bring close during our lives touch us in so many ways. Memories, words, habits, likes/dislikes, it's all some weird sort of contagious thing we pass along to those we encounter. Yet, we blindly move through life, most of us unaware of the moment, unaware that in a few months our catchy saying will be theirs.

The same is true musically. Despite the limited scope of my ex, the over six years we enjoyed together altered me musically. I was exposed to more pop, more strong, female singers, and so much of it seeped into my being. Though some I couldn't stand, and tolerated solely to maintain the peace, others I have become so enamored with that I consider them mine.

Artists like Dido, Fisher, Erasure, Madonna, and Everything but the Girl were just a few I became immersed in. Some songs, I can still hear that haunting voice of my ex as he sung the tune. In the past year, as I have moved on, some artists have remained in my collections, while others haven't.

Dido's new album was quickly acquired when it came out this fall. Darren Hayes is still in my playlist as well. Celine Dion quickly wore out her welcome, and others, I just have needed a break. The plunge into pop goodness isn't complete, and the field of players is crowded.

The legacy remains musically. The influences of another squarely mine, tastes altered, my ears tickled with dulcet tones that were unfamiliar. For that, I am grateful for the experience, and glad that I was open to the musical journey presented.

We Three Kings.

A tidbit for the holiday and a new album next year. 30 years plus and counting. Go Blondie.