I've tinkered around in the wmp settings, under the Library tab, I unchecked 'Maintain my star ratings as global ratings in files' option. Under the Player tab, I unchecked the 'Add media files to library when played' option, so far so good.
I'll post back if it starts acting up again.
This is a great site with great people. Thanks to you all
*edit - I also changed the name of my folder from Songs to Music.