Influence, imo, generally informs ones style and approach. Yet many of the things I loved listening to did not necessarily inform my style (at least consciously).
 
	My listening "range" my not be very wide compared to Pedro or CraigB but for me it was somewhat diverse over the years.
 
	The Beatles (and much of the English Invasion)
 
	Genesis/Gentle Giant/Yes/Tull
 
	Joe Pass
 
	Return To Forever
 
	Ray Charles
 
	Hendrix
 
	Cream (and all of the spinoffs)
 
	Chicago/Blood Seat and Tears
 
	Stevie Wonder
 
	Elvis
 
	Zappa
 
	Edgar/Johnny Winter
 
	Primus
 
	ELO
 
	.... and so much more, that's a just a small sample.