I'm in love with that song.

About ten minutes ago, I learned that Alex Chilton died today. And while he might not be known and mourned by the same number of people as Heath Ledger or Brittany Murphy or Michael Jackson, he means just as much to the people who do know who he is.

From the Box Tops memorable hit "The Letter," to Big Star's underdog anthems "Thirteen," "The Ballad of El Goodo," and simple but gorgeous "I'm In Love With A Girl," Alex Chilton's indelible voice spanned generations and will continue to do so for those lucky enough to discover him. His influence can be heard in underground favorites The Replacements (who wrote a whole song about him), R.E.M., Pavement, Teenage Fanclub and anyone who tries to sound like those bands. He paved the way for the likes of Elliott Smith and even Bright Eyes, because he proved that pop songs can be sad and honest and still be enjoyable.

His music has played in the background during pivotal scenes in movies, has been covered by a great many musicians, and will continue to be a soundtrack to adolescents and sentimental grown ups for years to come.

And now, to close, a fitting verse from Big Star's "Take Care":

But if your eyes are wide
And all words aside
Take care, please, take care
This sounds a bit like goodbye
In a way it is I guess
As I leave your side
I've taken the air
Take care, please, take care.