Writing for the Underdogs: A Musical Legacy

by Lisa, Queen of the Clearance Aisle and Commander of Catchy Tunes

Every song I write is like a yard sale treasure-maybe a little quirky, maybe a little dusty with truth-but once you hold it up to the light, you realize it’s got soul, sass, and a story worth singing.” ~ The Yard Sale Queen

Legacy. Big Word, eh? evokes images of enigmatic treasure maps concealed behind antique portraits, marble monuments, or gold records. Let’s face it, though: my legacy? Probably more like:

• A playlist full of real-talk
• A garage full of yard sale glory
• And maybe a few lipstick stains on coffee mugs

An idea, a phrase, or a sensation that is too obstinate to let go begins as a whisper. After that, it develops into something more: a message, a melody, or a mirror.

Lately, I’ve released four songs that feel like little pieces of my soul stitched together:

• Don’t You Know My Name?
• Retail Therapy
• A Man with a Plan
• My Man with a Plan

Each one is different, yet they all carry a part of the legacy I hope to leave behind

This one was profoundly rooted. For anybody who has ever felt invisible, unacknowledged, or rejected, it’s a shout into the winds of rejection. For the underdogs, the forgotten, the “background characters” of life who deserved their own spotlight, I wanted to create something unique.

If my legacy includes reminding someone that their voice matters—even when the world’s not listening—then I’ve done something right.

This one is cheeky, fun, and exudes “I-deserve-this” attitude. It’s more than just shopping; it’s about rediscovering small joys in the midst of chaos. This one is for the women who are running on empty but keep continuing to chuckle at the clearance rack.

I want my legacy to include laughter. To remind people that fun counts. Joy counts. And yes—sometimes that clearance-rack treasure is your emotional breakthrough.

This one was inspired by any passionate soul that refuses to give up. The blueprint might be a little crooked. The tools may be corroded. He has ideas and drive and strives to figure things out as he goes. Aren’t we all?

I hope my songs say, Don’t wait for perfect. Start now. You’re allowed to dream while building the staircase beneath your feet.

This follow-up tune is a personal tribute to the man who has been by my side for more than 30 years. Mr. Crazy Rummage Sale Man himself. This song combines affection, grin, and heart. It is about loving someone not because they are perfect, but because you have created a perfectly imperfect life together.

If I leave behind anything, I hope it’s the reminder that lasting love is worth singing about. Even when it includes dogs, old trucks, and mismatched yard sale treasures.

My Legacy? Songs with Soul.

I don’t need statues or bestselling albums (though hey, I won’t turn down a Grammy if it shows up 😉). What I want—really want—is for someone to stumble on one of my songs years from now, and feel seen. Or to laugh. Or cry. Or sing along like they’re not alone.

My legacy is a songbook filled with truth.
With stories.
With sass.
With sorrow.
With hope.

And maybe—just maybe—a little therapy in the form of lyrics. ~The Yard Sale Queen