Happy Birthday, William

William Shatner. He's an icon for his portrayal of the fearless leader of the Starship Enterprise, Captain James T. Kirk. Who doesn't love hearing him say "Beam me up, Scotty," or watching him covered in Tribbles, or see him draped with a constantly revolving bevy of intergalactic ladies? I know I sure do, and I'm not even a Trekkie!

Shatner also gave voice to some, er, interesting music. I can still remember the first time I heard his take on "Lucy In the Sky with Diamonds." It was a late English evening and there had been heavy drinking, but not quite enough to prepare me for the Shatnerian experience. I find his music to be an acquired taste.

Lately, I've fallen back in love with the divine Shatner courtesy of his fantastic turn as the Priceline Negotiator, that long-running Priceline ad campaign. His deadpan delivery and expressive features get me everytime. I tend to use Priceline quite a bit, so perhaps the subliminal affection for Shatner is making me choose them over those other travel sites after all. And so, friends, if you will, let's wish a very happy birthday to Mr. Shatner.

mp3: The Transformed Man (William Shatner from The Transformed Man)