The Department of Homeland Security recently announced news of a new Disinformation Governance Board. When an old Tiktok video of the individual selected to oversee this board surfaced, the credibility of this Disinformation Board was immediately put into question. Meanwhile, a tweet by Jeff Bezos called out President Biden for his own disinformation about a false statement on Covid-19 vaccines.
I have no greater joy than this, to hear that my [spiritual] children are living their lives in the Truth, 3 John 1:4.
According to one of Jesus’ former disciples, the Bible has its own plan for dealing with disinformation. At the beginning of one of his last recorded letters, John’s greatest joy as a Christian is to see people, he spiritually mentored to live their lives in the truth of the Bible. Since the Bible contains supernatural power as a living document, Hebrews 4:12, disinformation is exposed by the light of God’s Word.
So Jesus said to those Jews who had believed in Him, If you abide in My word [hold fast to My teachings and live in accordance with them], you are truly My disciples. 32 And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free, John 8:31-32.
Years earlier, John was present when Jesus told his disciples that spiritual truth will set you free. While disinformation, gossip, and rumors continue today, Christians who shine the light and love of Jesus will convict the hearts of those trying to control your speech. Despite the algorithms designed by social media sites that favor progressive ideas, living your life in the Truth will expose disinformation as its espoused.
You don’t see many hit songs inspired by a graffiti message. Yet, when friend Kathleen Hanna of Bikini Kill wrote Kurt smells like teen spirit on a wall, a title for a new song was conceived. Since Kurt Cobain had never heard of the deodorant, he interpreted this slogan as connecting with teenagers like a squad of cheerleaders firing up a home crowd. As for the composition of Smells Like Teen Spirit, Kurt wanted to replicate a tune with pop sensibility similar to the Pixie’s. When these 2 ideas were merged together, an iconic song was created.
Biblical Application:
“I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. 13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. 14 He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. 15 All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you,” John 16:12-15.
Exegesis of Smells Like Teen Spirit:
Load up on guns, bring your friends It’s fun to lose and to pretend She’s over-bored and self-assured Oh no, I know a dirty word
Either Kurt is referring to Gaming or playing paint ball with friends. Depending upon how competitive people are, this can be a fun activity. Yet, in every crowd, someone present isn’t excited, loses focus and becomes self-absorbed. Kurt wants to use a curse word to address her.
Hello, hello, hello, how low Hello, hello, hello, how low Hello, hello, hello, how low Hello, hello, hello
Instead, Kurt introduces himself.
With the lights out, it’s less dangerous Here we are now, entertain us I feel stupid and contagious Here we are now, entertain us A mulatto, an albino A mosquito, my libido
Either Kurt is on stage performing for a live audience or he is thinking about individuals who have a short attention span, needing to be always entertained.
Yeah, hey, yay
I’m worse at what I do best And for this gift, I feel blessed Our little group has always been And always will until the end
Kurt appears to be singing about his life as a rock star. Despite being blessed as a skilled musician, there are certain aspects of being famous and or on tour that he detests. Maybe this was Kurt’s way of telling his fans that I’m not as happy as I look. In fact, I’m contemplating killing myself.
Hello, hello, hello, how low Hello, hello, hello, how low Hello, hello, hello, how low Hello, hello, hello
Hello, could be used as an introduction after the opening song of a concert.
With the lights out, it’s less dangerous Here we are now, entertain us I feel stupid and contagious Here we are now, entertain us A mulatto, an albino A mosquito, my libido
Trying to excite a crowd can get old. When high school cheerleaders are trying to get a student body revved up for a team that hasn’t won a game all season, fans can lose interest quickly.
Yeah, hey, yay
And I forget just why I taste Oh yeah, I guess it makes me smile I found it hard, it’s hard to find Oh well, whatever, never mind
I’m not sure if Kurt is singing about the thunder of applause or what he smells like om stage.
Hello, hello, hello, how low Hello, hello, hello, how low Hello, hello, hello, how low Hello, hello, hello
A superficial greeting.
With the lights out, it’s less dangerous Here we are now, entertain us I feel stupid and contagious Here we are now, entertain us A mulatto, an albino A mosquito, my libido
Seems like the life Kurt was living prior to his suicide in 1994 sucked the joy out of his soul. Apparently, Kurt didn’t have anyone to save him from himself.
A denial, a denial A denial, a denial A denial, a denial A denial, a denial A denial
This denial is either referring to people that can’t entertain themselves or that he wanted to live a more private and quieter life when Kurt wasn’t on stage.
Final Thoughts:
As I start my 15th year of writing Express Yourself 4Him on February 4th, I’ve learned that when you begin a new format like the Message Behind the Music, you’ll run into unforeseen problems. My initial goal for 2026 was to identify a theme within a former hit song, then add a passage from the Bible addressing this specific theme. However, as I have rushed to cover some of the top songs of all time from iconic artists and bands, lyrics can be bland, bizarre and or shallow. Subsequently, going forward starting in February and carrying on for the final 11 months of 2026, songs will be selected based upon the content, depth and quality of their lyrics.
As for Smells Like Teen Spirit and Kurt Cobain, I lost 2 friends to suicide in high school. One I grew up playing baseball with and the other was a swimming teammate. Both suicides caught me by surprise. Since musicians can hide behind their music, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings by reaching out to friends and individuals who don’t look like themselves. This simple intervention can be the difference between life and death. Smells Like Teen Spirit has an incredible beat, rhythm and sound, but the lyrics don’t do anything for me.
The composition of Bohemian Rhapsody is more like a journey to write a book. Freddie Mercury started putting fragments of this song together in the 1960’s as a student at Ealing Art School. The initial goal was to blend opera with rock. Freddie collected pages like sticky notes, enough to write 3 different songs. Finally, Queen spent weeks perfecting this in 1975, deciding to make one long song instead of 3 shorts ones.
Biblical Application:
And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. 4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, 2 Corinthians 4:3-4.
Exegesis of Bohemian Rhapsody:
Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy? Caught in a landslide, no escape from reality Open your eyes, look up to the skies and see I’m just a poor boy (ooh, poor boy), I need no sympathy Because I’m easy come, easy go, little high, little low Any way the wind blows doesn’t really matter to me, to me
Freddie doesn’t seem to be pleased with where he ended up in life. Perhaps, he expected to be much more successful and wealthier. However, don’t feel bad as his life is flexible, coming and going.
Mama, just killed a man Put a gun against his head, pulled my trigger, now he’s dead Mama, life had just begun But now I’ve gone and thrown it all away Mama, ooh, didn’t mean to make you cry If I’m not back again this time tomorrow Carry on, carry on as if nothing really matters
Either Freddie just watched his mother kill a man or it’s here for dramatic purposes. Freddie blames himself for this happening, throwing his life away. Freddie feels like he let his mother down. If he doesn’t return, Freddie wants his mom to carry on with her life.
Too late, my time has come Sends shivers down my spine, body’s aching all the time Goodbye everybody, I’ve got to go Gotta leave you all behind, and face the truth Mama, ooh (any way the wind blows) I don’t wanna die I sometimes wish I’d never been born at all
Freddie is overcome by depression. This stanza suggests Freddie is going to jail or simply has to leave his family behind. This stressful situation makes Freddie wish that he’d never been born.
I see a little silhouetto of a man Scaramouche, Scaramouche, will you do the Fandango? Thunderbolt and lightning, very, very frightening me (Galileo) Galileo (Galileo), Galileo, Galileo Figaro, magnifico I’m just a poor boy, nobody loves me (He’s just a poor boy from a poor family) (Spare him his life from this monstrosity)
Freddie is either singing about himself or somebody he knows well. A poor boy who nobody loves.
Easy come, easy go, will you let me go? Bismillah! No, we will not let you go (let him go) Bismillah! We will not let you go (let him go) Bismillah! We will not let you go (let me go) Will not let you go (let me go) Will not let you go, never, never, never (let me go) No, no, no, no, no, no, no
Freddie cries out to Allah when he can’t escape.
Oh, mamma mia, mamma mia Mamma mia, let me go Beelzebub has a devil put aside for me, for me, for me
Freddie blames his current spiritual condition on demonic forces placed upon him by the Devil.
So you think you can stone me and spit in my eye? So you think you can love me and leave me to die? Oh, baby, can’t do this to me, baby Just gotta get out, just gotta get right outta here
Freddie is questioning his accuser.
Ooh Ooh, yeah, ooh, yeah
Nothing really matters, anyone can see Nothing really matters Nothing really matters to me
Freddie has become apathetic due to his current situation.
Any way the wind blows
The lyrics end with an ode to Kansas, touching on dust in the wind.
Final Thoughts:
When you are trying to follow an Oprah for the first time, it’s hard to fully comprehend. This Bohemian Rhapsody is like a modern-day Greek tragedy. Compositions like this make me reach for a higher power to understand the meaning of life. Yet, as the words of the apostle Paul reveals in a letter to the Church of Corinth, the god of this age has blinded the minds of countless lost souls, unable to see the truth of Romans 10:9-11. May today’s blog lead you toward eternal life.
During a jam session at Guns N Roses’ home in Los Angeles, guitarist Slash began playing a circus melody. While this melody was initially dismissed, Axl Rose and his girlfriend at the time Erin, co-wrote the lyrics to Sweet Child of Mine. As these two reminisced about their childhood, Slash’s circus melody seemed to make a perfect match.
Biblical Application:
In the paths of the wicked are snares and pitfalls, but those who would preserve their life stay far from them. 6 Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it, Proverbs 22:5-6.
Exegesis of Sweet Child of Mine:
She’s got a smile that it seems to me Reminds me of childhood memories Where everything was as fresh As the bright blue sky
The newness of Axl’s relationship with Erin reminded him of simpler times living as a child.
Now and then when I see her face She takes me away to that special place And if I stared too long I’d probably break down and cry
Axl was in a great place in life after meeting Erin. He feels blessed and fortunate.
Whoa, oh-oh Sweet child o’ mine Whoa, oh-oh-oh Sweet love of mine
Either Erin is younger or pictures of her as a child who makes Axl feel special.
She’s got eyes of the bluest skies As if they thought of rain I’d hate to look into those eyes And see an ounce of pain
Axl is scared of hurting Erin, overwhelmed by the beauty of her eyes.
Her hair reminds me of a warm, safe place Where as a child I’d hide And pray for the thunder and the rain To quietly pass me by
Erin must be a beautiful woman. Being with her has become Axl’s happy place.
Whoa, oh-oh Sweet child of mine Whoa-whoa, oh-oh, oh-oh Sweet love of mine
The chorus reflects the happiness within Axl’s heart.
Whoa, oh-oh, yeah Whoa, oh-oh-oh, sweet child of mine Whoa-oh, whoa-oh, sweet love of mine Whoa, oh-oh-oh, sweet child of mine, ooh, yeah Ooh-ooh, sweet love of mine
This extended chorus reinforces Axl’s gratitude.
Where do we go? Where do we go now? Where do we go? Mm-mm, oh Where do we go? Where do we go now? Oh, where do we go now? Where do we go? (Sweet child) Mm-huh, where do we go now?
This stanza suggests uncertainty in their relationship. What’s the next step? Was Axl considering marriage? At some point, there is a desire to take this relationship deeper, to the next level.
(Where do we go?) Ah-yah-yah-yah-yah-yah-yah-yah-oh (Where do we go?) Ooh, where do we go now? (Where do we go?) Uh-uh-uh, uh-uh-uh-oh
There is uncertainty, a cause for concern.
Where do we go? Oh-oh, where do we go now? Oh, where do we go? Where do we go now?
The more you think about something, the more stressful it becomes.
Where do we go? Whoa-oh, where do we go now? No, no, no, no, no, no, no, sweet child Sweet child of mine
The conclusion opens the door for either a joint decision to move on or end this relationship.
Final Thoughts:
Depending upon your childhood, you either have fond memories or you’re glad to be an adult. Since life is full of distractions, there is always something or someone pulling you away from the people you love. Relationships can be exhausting. Yet, if you have the will to love and God is the center of your relationship, you have a better chance to stick with it for better or for worse.
I grew up in a time when conversative leaders began to correlate rock music with worshipping the Devil. While this genre of music does encourage a rebellious spirit, not every rock song is evil. Back in Black was conceived following the death of AC/DC’s lead singer Bon Scott. The lyrics reflect Scott’s reckless lifestyle, always living on the edge. Although Bon used up his nine lives, Back in Black served as a tribute to this singer, focusing on the positive aspects of his life.
Biblical Application:
Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness. 5 But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin. 6 No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him, 1 John 3:4-6.
Exegesis of Back in Black:
Back in black, I hit the sack I’ve been too long, I’m glad to be back Yes, I’m let loose from the noose That’s kept me hangin’ about I’m just a-lookin’ at the sky ’cause it’s gettin’ me high Forget the hearse, ’cause I’ll never die I got nine lives, cat’s eyes Abusin’ every one of them and runnin’ wild
Bon Scott possessed a dare devil spirit within him like Evil Knievel. Bon is not the first musician to lose control of his life, dying prematurely. Like a cat that keeps escaping death, Scott began to think he was indestructible.
‘Cause I’m back Yes, I’m back Well, I’m back Yes, I’m back Well, I’m back, back Well, I’m back in black Yes, I’m back in black
The chorus suggests that Bon is back with AC/DC in spirit.
Oh, back in the back of a Cadillac Number one with a bullet, I’m a power pack Yes, I’m in a band with a gang They’ve got to catch me if they want me to hang ‘Cause I’m back on the track, and I’m beatin’ the flack Nobody’s gonna get me on another rap So look at me now, I’m just a-makin’ my play Don’t try to push your luck, just get out of my way
This stanza uses rhymes to remember Bon. He was the life of the party, always pushing his luck and didn’t want anyone to tell him what to do.
‘Cause I’m back Yes, I’m back Well, I’m back Yes, I’m back Well, I’m back, back Well, I’m back in black Yes, I’m back in black
Well, I’m back Yes, I’m back Well, I’m back Yes, I’m back Well, I’m back, back Well, I’m back in black Yes, I’m back in black, ow!
Rock music isn’t always about the lyrics. Back in Black has stood the test of time due to the beat and sound.
Ah, yeah Oh, yeah Take my love Oh, yeah Yeah Ah, yeah-yeah Oh, yeah
Bon loved life, especially as a lead singer of a famous rock band.
Well, I’m back (I’m back) Back, well I’m (I’m back) Back (I’m back) Back (I’m back) Back (I’m back) Back, back in black Yes, I’m back in black
While this song may bring back the memory of their friend, dying in his prime.
Outta the sack
This final line is either referring to a body bag or Bon never slept, staying out late until the party was over.
Final Thoughts:
AC/DC songs were a staple at the local roller-skating rink that I went to every Friday night in Junior High. When I wasn’t in the arcade playing Pac Man, songs like Back in Black moved me to get back on the roller rink floor. Most people know at least one friend whose life resembles a young Bon Scott. May this blog inspire you to intervene in some manner before it’s too late.
Bob Seger was a member of his high school cross country and track team. As Seger reflects upon days when he was literary running against the wind, he reflects upon past experiences in life. The lyrics of the Against the Wind chorus are a metaphor for the challenges, obstacles and struggles that human beings endure throughout life. The theme of resilience is highlighted by the montage of Against the Wind in the iconic film Forrest Gump.
Biblical Application:
He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he causes me to stand on the heights.34 He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze.35 You make your saving help my shield, and your right hand sustains me; your help has made me great. 36 You provide a broad path for my feet, so that my ankles do not give way, Psalm 18:33-36.
Exegesis Against the Wind:
Seems like yesterday But it was long ago Janey was lovely, she was the queen of my nights There in the darkness with the radio playin’ low
Bob Seger is having a flashback to his days in high school. Janey is likely Bob’s high school sweetheart. Spending time together listening to music.
And the secrets that we shared Mountains that we moved Caught like a wildfire out of control ‘Til there was nothin’ left to burn and nothin’ left to prove
Bob reflects upon meaningful conversations where he was vulnerable. These special moments removed barriers that separated him from Janey and or other friends. The wildfire analogy appears to refer to a relationship built on honesty where nothing was withheld.
And I remember what she said to me How she swore that it never would end I remember how she held me, oh, so tight Wish I didn’t know now what I didn’t know then
Bob developed a special bond with Janey as he relives fond memories from his past.
Against the wind We were runnin’ against the wind We were young and strong We were runnin’ against the wind
The wind slows down your momentum when it’s in your face. Yet, when you are young, you don’t know any better, clinging to a relationship.
And the years rolled slowly past And I found myself alone Surrounded by strangers I thought were my friends Found myself further and further from my home
This stanza suggests that Bob’s relationship with Jany ended. This loneliness was not healed by people that Bob thought were his friends. Bob left home, moving away to start a new life.
And I guess I lost my way There were, oh, so many roads I was livin’ to run and runnin’ to live Never worried about payin’, or even how much I owed
Failed relationships have a lasting impact on human beings. While Bob lost his way momentary, this pain resulted in going into debt.
Movin’ eight miles a minute for months at a time Breakin’ all of the rules that would bend Began to find myself searchin’ Searchin’ for shelter again and again
Running an 8-minute mile is a slow pace where your mind tends to wander. This portion of Bob’s life went off the rails as he began to challenge authority. Bob was looking for shelter, a safe place to recover.
Against the wind Little somethin’ against the wind I found myself seekin’ shelter against the wind
Storms usually bring high winds. Bob wanted his current trial to end.
Well, those drifter’s days are past me now I’ve got so much more to think about Deadlines and commitments What to leave in, what to leave out
Bob is full of thoughts as he reflects upon his past. There is too much to say, struggling to figure out what is essential and what can be left out.
Against the wind I’m still runnin’ against the wind I’m older now, but still runnin’ against the wind
While Bob is now older and wiser, he is still facing difficult issues in life.
Well, I’m older now and still runnin’ against the wind Against the wind, against the wind Still runnin’ (against the wind) I’m still runnin’ against the wind (against the wind) I’m still runnin’ (against the wind) I’m still runnin’ against the wind (against the wind) Still runnin’ (against the wind) Runnin’ against the wind, runnin’ against the wind (against the wind)
This extended chorus points to the fact that trials never stop like trade winds which never cease.
See the young man run (against the wind) Watch the young man run (against the wind) Watch the young man runnin’ (against the wind) He’ll be runnin’ against the wind (against the wind) Let the cowboys ride (against the wind) Ooh (against the wind) Let the cowboys ride (against the wind) They’ll be ridin’ against the wind (against the wind)
Bob sees himself back in high school and now as an adult running against the winds of life. This song concludes with an image of the fronter with cowboys riding as the wind blows around them.
Final Thoughts:
As a former runner, I am reminded of David’s prayer as a shepherd. Herding his sheep upon all kinds of terrains, David trusted God with every aspect of his life, including not twisting or turning his ankle. Following reconstruction surgery on my left ankle, I made David’s words into a prayer each time I went running. Although life is full of hidden holes, potholes and ruts, God can protect you when you go running against the wind.
After his Packard was towed, Pete Townsend reflected upon his life experiences growing up in Great Britain. The lyrics were inspired by the Queen Mother of England and by the Moses Allison song Young Man’s Blues. At the time My Generation was composed, Townsend was lost, struggling to find his place in this world. These are the emotions that spawned My Generation.
Biblical Application:
I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. 10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand, Isaiah 41:9-10.
Exegesis of My Generation:
People try to put us d-down (Talkin’ ’bout my generation) Just because we g-get around (Talkin’ ’bout my generation) Things they do look awful c-c-c-cold (Talkin’ ’bout my generation) I hope I die before I get old (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
Pete is frustrated by the oppression he is experiencing. He doesn’t like the direction society is heading. Wishing to die before he grows old.
This is my generation This is my generation, baby
This is a microscopic depiction of Pete’s generation.
Why don’t you all fade away (Talkin’ ’bout my generation) And don’t try to dig what we all s-s-say (Talkin’ ’bout my generation) I’m not trying to cause a big s-sensation (Talkin’ ’bout my generation) I’m just talkin’ ’bout my g-g-g-generation (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
Questioning what’s going on in society is taboo. Authority figures see this as a sign of pessimism and rebellion. Don’t make such a fuss about current events. This is a glimpse of Pete’s generation.
This is my generation This is my generation, baby
This is how Pete sees his generation.
Why don’t you all fade away (Talkin’ ’bout my generation) And don’t try to dig what we all s-s-s-say (Talkin’ ’bout my generation) I’m not trying to cause a big sensation (Talkin’ ’bout my generation) I’m just talkin’ ’bout my g-g-g-generation (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
Pete feels like society is trying to silence him. Perhaps, Pete is referring to the mentality, lets just sweep things under the rug and hope everything goes away instead of dealing with it.
This is my generation This is my generation, baby My, my generation My, my, my, my generation
The repetitive chorus underscores Pete’s perspective of his generation.
People try to put us d-down (Talkin’ ’bout my generation) Just because we g-g-get around (Talkin’ ’bout my generation) Things they do look awful c-c-cold (Talkin’ ’bout my generation) Yeah, I hope I die before I get old (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
Pete feels like he is being held back, stopping cultural progress. This is how he sees things.
This is my generation This is my generation, baby My, my, my, my g-g-gen-generation
Talkin’ about my generation My generation This is my generation, baby My generation
This is my generation This is my generation This is my generation
The final 3 stanzas are an extended chorus. Pete is a voice singing about how other people his age see what is going on within his generation.
Final Thoughts:
As an individual part of Generation X, my thoughts on society are that work ethic is dying. Whether this is due to apathy, a lack of discipline or widespread egocentrism, most people would rather talk than work. Despite this current trend, I still believe that work ethic can be saved if individuals are held accountable and pushed to reach new heights.
Victor Willis attended a party at a YMCA in New York City. During this evening event, Victor was moved by the diversity and camaraderie shared by everyone in attendance. Willis sought to capture this spirit of acceptance and unity within song. The lyrics celebrate the YMCA as a safe place to go and hang out. This inclusive spirit has made YMCA stand the test of time.
Biblical Application:
But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. 9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11 Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all, Colossians 3:8-11.
Exegesis of YMCA:
Young man, there’s no need to feel down I said, young man, pick yourself off the ground I said, young man, ’cause you’re in a new town There’s no need to be unhappy
YMCA is short for Young Men’s Christian Association. Don’t live an isolated life. Stop being depressed because there is a new place in town to hangout.
Young man, there’s a place you can go I said, young man, when you’re short on your dough You can stay there, and I’m sure you will find Many ways to have a good time
This place doesn’t care if you’re skinny or fat. When you go, I’m sure you’ll find out the many opportunities there are available to have fun.
It’s fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A It’s fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A
They have everything for young men to enjoy You can hang out with all the boys
There are plenty of recreational activities available.
It’s fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A It’s fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A
While some larger facilities may have a homeless shelter, most are open morning til evening.
You can get yourself clean, you can have a good meal You can do whatever you feel
The one in New York City where Willis attended provided food and a place to shower.
Young man, are you listening to me? I said, young man, what do you want to be? I said, young man, you can make real your dreams But you got to know this one thing
Willis wants other young men to experience what he did. If you are young, this is a great place to stay out of trouble and provide a space safe to start following your dreams as an athlete.
No man does it all by himself I said, young man, put your pride on the shelf And just go there, to the Y.M.C.A I’m sure they can help you today
The YMCA provides a place for like-minded people to hang out, push one another and help shape you in a positive manner.
It’s fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A It’s fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A
Don’t take my word; try it for yourself. Go to your local YMCA.
They have everything for young men to enjoy You can hang out with all the boys
This is a great place to hang out, have fun, and make new friends.
It’s fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A It’s fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A
If you’re looking for a good time, go to your local YMCA.
You can get yourself clean, you can have a good meal You can do whatever you feel
Freshen up and get a hot meal.
Young man, I was once in your shoes I said, I was down and out with the blues I felt no man cared if I were alive I felt the whole world was so jive
Going to the YMCA gave direction and hope to Willis.
That’s when someone came up to me And said, young man, take a walk up the street It’s a place there called the Y.M.C.A They can start you back on your way
The biblical values which founded the YMCA can help you get back in the right direction by drawing close to God.
It’s fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A It’s fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A
Willis has fond memories of his time there.
They have everything for young men to enjoy You can hang out with all the boys Y.M.C.A., it’s fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A Young man, young man, there’s no need to feel down Young man, young man, get yourself off the ground
Don’t waste the resources and opportunities open to the public.
Y.M.C.A., it’s fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A Young man, young man, are you listening to me? Young man, young man, what do you wanna be?
Willis has become an advocate for the YMCA.
Y.M.C.A., you’ll find it at the Y.M.C.A No man, young man, does it all by himself Young man, young man, put your pride on the shelf
Put your pride on hold and embrace the opportunity to be pushed by other people your own age to reach your full potential in life.
Y.M.C.A and just go to the Y.M.C.A Young man, young man, I was once in your shoes Young man, young man, I was down and blue
The YMCA mad a difference in Willis’ life.
Final Thoughts:
I selected YMCA for January as this is the number one month for gym membership across the United States. When you find a friend to go with you to work out, the more likely you’ll continue to use your gym membership. However, if you don’t find or have someone to hold you accountable, you’ll stop going. I was a Summer Camp counselor at a YMCA day camp and it was one of my most memorable summers in college. Subsequently, the YMCA was always hold a special place in my heart.
This song was conceived out of a desire to acknowledge and celebrate all of the diverse contributions made by various individuals throughout society. Let the Day Begin is a secular version of the Christian song Thank You by Ray Boltz. Let the Day Begin is similar to keeping a gratitude journal, but you are expressing these thanks verbally to occupations who are usually overlooked in our culture. This song serves as an anthem for new beginning as well as aspirations for achieving personal dreams in life.
Biblical Application:
We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your[a] faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,[b] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully, Romans 12:6-8.
Exegesis of Let the Day Begin:
Here’s to the babies of a brand new world Here’s to the beauty of the stars Here’s to the travellers on the open road Here’s to the dreamers in the bars Here’s to the teachers in the crowded rooms Here’s to the workers in the fields Here’s to the preachers of the sacred word Here’s to the drivers at the wheel
The opening stanza provides a glimpse of the people working quietly behind the scenes. Hospital staff, astrologers, the retired living in RV’s, young dreamers, teachers, farmers, preachers,and truck drivers are recognized.
Here’s to you my little love With blessings from above Now let the day begin Here’s to you my little love With blessings from above Now let the day begin Let the day begin
This opening chorus acknowledges family men and women praying for their children.
Here’s to the winners of the human race Here’s to the losers in the game Here’s to the soldiers of the bitter war Here’s to the wall that bears their name
The second group of individuals mentioned involve current events. Instead of focusing solely on the winners, the losers are thought of as if referring to the Little League motto spoken out loud by players before each game. The military are given a shout out despite the outcome of a war.
Here’s to you my little love With blessings from above Now let the day begin Here’s to you my little love With blessings from above Now let the day begin Let the day begin Let the day begin Let the day… start
After living in South Carolina for 3 years, some people didn’t like to plan, flying by the seat of their pants, making things up as they go. Yet, as I have learned over the years, “if you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Therefore, before you day begins, shower it with prayer.
Here’s to the doctors and their healing work Here’s to the loved ones in their care Here’s to the strangers on the streets tonight Here’s to the lonely everywhere Here’s to the wisdom from the mouths of babes Here’s to the lions in the cage Here’s to the strugglers of the silent war Here’s to the closing of the age
Doctors, nurses, retirement home employees, the homeless, lonely, wise young children, zookeepers, the struggling and the elderly are all reflected upon. If you don’t slow down enough to be aware of your surroundings, you’ll miss the opportunity to help someone in need.
Here’s to you my little love With blessings from above Now let the day begin Oh! Here’s to you my little loves With blessings from above Now let the day begin Here’s to you my little loves With blessings from above Now let the day begin Here’s to you my little loves With blessings from above Now let the day begin Let the day begin Let the day… start
As 2026 starts to speed up, take time every morning and night to reflect upon your own life. Thank God for all that you have been blessed with and continue to pray for your children. When this time of prayer and reflection is complete, a new day can begin.
Final Thoughts:
There were other more up-tempo rock songs that I could have highlighted from the Call, but the message of Let the Day Begin fit into this calendar slot. Don’t allow yourself to become consumed with the hustle and bustle of work. Rather, take time to thank the people who have impacted your life today, this week and throughout the year.
Rob Hyman and Eric Bazilian were working on a new sound by combining genres. When a vision for All You Zombies came to Rob and Eric, they immediately wrote this in a small studio in Philadelphia. The Zombies in this song are symbolic of people wearing masks, moving without awareness, swayed by invisible forces to conform. Biblical imagery is used to compare the Israelites to Zombies who made irrational decisions by following human nature instead of God. The line “you don’t have to hide anyone” is a call to action for anyone living in shame, fear or silence.
Biblical Application:
When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. 7 Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves. 8 Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. 9 But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” 10 He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” 11 And he said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?” – Genesis 3:6-11.
Exegesis of All You Zombies:
Holy Moses met the Pharaoh Yeah, he tried to set him straight Looked him in the eye “Let my people go”
Moses was called by God to confront King Pharaoh, seeking freedom for Israel after living as slaves in Egypt for 400 years.
Holy Moses on the mountain High above the golden calf Went to get the Ten Commandments Yeah, he’s just gonna break ’em in half
After God unleashed 10 plagues upon Egypt, Israel was given their freedom. While living in the wilderness, Moses went up to Mount Sinai to receive the Ten Commandments. The longer that Moses was gone, the Israelites began to think that he was dead. Israel then pressured Aaron to create a god that they could see. When Moses received news about the creation of this golden calf, Moses was so angry that he broke the tablet that the Ten Commandments was written on.
All you zombies hide your faces All you people in the street All you sittin’ in high places The pieces gonna fall on you
The chorus speaks to a middle class oppressed by government officials sitting in high places. The proud will eventually be humbled.
No one ever spoke to Noah They all laughed at him instead Workin’ on his ark Workin’ all by himself
According to Genesis 2:5-6, the earth’s initial atmosphere did not include rain. Rather, a system of springs around the world, just underneath the ground sprung up to water the earth. Subsequently, concept of rain was foreign, not invented yet. This is why residents of the earth laughed at Noah.
Only Noah saw it comin’ 40 days and 40 nights Took his sons and daughters with him Yeah, they were the Israelites
Once the ark was completed, only Noah saw the approaching storm. Noah boarded the ark with his family once all the animals were safely onboard.
All you zombies hide your faces All you people in the street All you sittin’ in high places The rain’s gonna fall on you
This chorus speaks to the masses who are oppressed by the leaders in charge. However, if these officials live by the motto “do as I say, not as I do” will be humbled by God.
Holy Father, what’s the matter? Where have all your children gone? Sittin’ in the dark Livin’ all by themselves You don’t have to hide anymore
The lyrics fast forward to modern-day, when All You Zombies was written. When faith is lost, people stop going to church, staying home to find a substitute for God. A call to action is sent out to those hiding their beliefs and faith.
All you zombies show your faces All you people in the street All you sittin’ in high places The pieces gonna fall on you
The Bible contains a consistent theme that God humbles the proud and uplifts the meek.
All you zombies show your faces (I saw you out there) All you people in the street (let’s see you) All you sittin’ in high places It’s all gonna fall on you
The time has come to face your fears by leaving this Zombie like malaise.
Final Thoughts:
The Hooters took a chance by creating a song centered around biblical themes. This one hit song vaulted a local band in Philadelphia to become famous internationally. Whenever a person of faith takes a stand spiritually, blessings often follow. May this be your goal for 2026.
Falco went to see the film Amadeus in 1984. After this movie, Falco became fascinated with Amadeus. Falco set out to compose a song that would celebrate of genius of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Reflecting upon the rivalry between Mozart and Antonio Salieri, Falco’s creative juices flowed to mix synth-pop with rap. Once complete, Rock Me Amadeus became a worldwide hit.
Biblical Application:
For I do not want you to be ignorant of the fact, brothers and sisters, that our ancestors were all under the cloud and that they all passed through the sea. 2 They were all baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. 3 They all ate the same spiritual food 4 and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ. 5 Nevertheless, God was not pleased with most of them; their bodies were scattered in the wilderness. 6 Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did, 1 Corinthians 10:1-6.
Exegesis of Rock Me Amadeus:
Rock me, rock me, rock me, rock me, rock me, Amadeus
Rock me all the time to the top
If you were inspired by a classical musician, this is not the way you would begin a tribute song. Yet, Falco appears to wonder, “what if Mozart was a rock star?”
Er war ein Punker und er lebte in der großen Stadt Es war in Wien, war Vienna, wo er alles tat Er hatte Schulden, denn er trank, doch ihn liebten alle Frauen Und jede rief: “Yeah, Come on and rock me, Amadeus”
Falco transitions from his native German back to English. Falco refers to Amadeus as the punk rock star of his day. While his weakness for alcohol made his poor, the woman of his day loved him. Sometimes lyrics are secondary to a beat and melody which likely explains why Rock Me Amadeus became a global hit.
Er war Superstar, er war populär Er war so exaltiert, because er hatte Flair Er war ein Virtuose, war ‘n Rockidol Und alles rief: “Yeah, come and rock me, Amadeus”
Falco uses German to celebrate. the greatness of Mozart.
Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus Amadeus, Amadeus Oh, oh, oh, Amadeus Come and rock me, Amadeus
The bland repetitive song writing didn’t make this song a hit. It was the rhythm and style that moved listeners.
Falco was surely obsessed with Amadeus. Perhaps’ Falco’s English was limited at the time of this recording which led to repeating Amadeus over and over again.
Es war um siebzehn-hundert-achtzig und es war in Wien No plastic money anymore, die Banken gegen ihn Woher die Schulden kamen, war wohl jedermann bekannt Er war ein Mann der Frauen, Frauen liebten seinen Punk
Falco provides the historical context of what Amadeus had to overcome. Amadeus rose above these circumstances to be an elite classical musician.
Er war Superstar, er war so populär Er war zu exaltiert, genau das war sein Flair Er war ein Virtuose, war ‘n Rockidol Und alles ruft noch heute: “Come and rock me, Amadeus”
Amadeus was a superstar of his day with flair.
Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus Amadeus, Amadeus Oh, oh, oh, Amadeus Oh, come and rock me, Amadeus
Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus Amadeus, Amadeus Oh, oh, oh, Amadeus Come and rock me, Amadeus
Oh, come and rock me, Amadeus
Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus Amadeus, Amadeus Oh, oh, oh, Amadeus (come and rock me, Amadeus)
In the entertainment industry, sex appeal sells average and mediocre products. In the case of Rock Me Amadeus, the lyrics are underwhelming at best. Yet, the sound, beat and unique style made Falco a giant one hit wonder that is still aired on radio stations today.
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