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.
Gessle wanted to convey a message within a song with Roxette that love may be lost, but it is never forgotten. It Must Have Been Love was a perfect fit for the film Pretty Woman starring Richard Gere and Julia Roberts. This song addresses the theme of love and loss, especially when human beings become vulnerable by opening up about past failures in life. This timeless classic resonates with individuals who have endured the painful reality of lost love.
Biblical Connection:
If I speak in the tongues[a] of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast,[b] but do not have love, I gain nothing, 1 Corinthians 13:1-3.
Exegesis of It Must Have Been Love:
It must have been love But it’s over now Lay a whisper On my pillow Leave the winter On the ground I wake up lonely There’s air of silence In the bedroom And all around Touch me now I close my eyes And dream away
Whenever a relationship ends, there is a noticeable difference. You grow so accustomed to being together and having someone in your life that you forget what it’s like to be alone. The lyrics in the opening stanza illustrate this eerie silence.
It must have been love But it’s over now It must have been good But I lost it somehow
The feeling of love vanished when this significant other left ia brought up. This relationship seemed like true love, but was lost for some unknown reason.
It must have been love But it’s over now From the moment we touched Till the time had run out
The love this song is referring to is based upon emotions, focused too much on the physical aspect of a relationship.
Make believing We’re together That I’m sheltered By your heart But in and outside I turned to water Like a teardrop In your palm
Sometime a relationship can begin like a Hollywood movie, too good to be true. When the honeymoon period is over, you have to work at a relationship to keep it going. If you don’t, everything you dreamed of can fall apart.
And it’s a hard Winter’s day I dream away
Dreaming is getting her through his absence.
It must have been love But it’s over now It was all that I wanted Now, I’m living without It must have been love But it’s over now It’s where the water flows It’s where the wind blows
Love requires action. Anyone can say, “I love you,” but true love is lived out like the analogy shared by the apostle Pail in 1 Corinthians 13.
It must have been love But it’s over now It must have been good But I lost it somehow It must have been love But it’s over now From the moment we touched Till the time had run out Yeah, it must have been love But it’s over now It was all that I wanted Now, I’m living without It must have been love But it’s over now It’s where the water flows It’s where the wind blows It must have been love But it’s over now
This extended chorus is searching for answers to why this relationship ended.
It must have been love But it’s over now
Perhaps, watching Pretty Woman will provide further insight into the complexities of love.
Final Thoughts:
I had to write a research paper for a Philosophy class in college on Pretty Woman. I had to use philosophical terms to explain why a woman would turn to prostitution. While I don’t recall my final conclusion, I do see a lack of genuine love lived out by members of society. Instead of being doers of the Word of God by emulating the love of Jesus, too many people are all talk and no action. May today’s blog inspire you to demonstrate acts of love daily to give hope to others who have given up on love.
The initial plan for Love Bites was designed to be a country ballad. Def Leppard took what was presented by their producer and added elements of rock mixed with rhythm and blues. The lyrics explore a fear of falling in love. Perhaps, band members were thinking about a good friend who they had thoughts of becoming emotionally involved with but didn’t want to ruin what they already had.
Biblical Connection:
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.
Exegesis of Love Bites:
If you’ve got love in your sights Watch out, love bites
The expression love bites can be explained by co-authors Chester and Betsy Kylstra in their book Restoring the Foundations. Chester refers to emotional wounds to your heart as soul ties. This encapsulates any brokenness, depression and pain from a previous relationship. This is the warning for anyone thinking about falling in love.
When you make love, do you look in your mirror? Who do you think of, does he look like me? Do you tell lies and say that it’s forever? Do you think twice or just touch and see?
Who are you thinking about when you have sex? Are you stuck in the past, using your current relationships as some sort of an emotional rebound? Or have you moved on, focused on the present person in your life? The final 2 lines point to pain from the past, empty promises of love that were never fulfilled. The second warning about love is think before you act.
Ooh, babe Oh, yeah
When you’re alone, do you let go? Are you wild and willin’ or is it just for show? Ooh, come on
The man behind the lyrics wants to know if his current relationship is more than just sex.
I don’t want to touch you too much, baby ‘Cause makin’ love to you might drive me crazy I know you think that love is the way you make it So I don’t wanna be there when you decide to break it, no
There is a fear of getting their heart broken again. Subsequently, it would be better to remain friends rather than having sex as this act changes everything as well as expectations.
Love bites, love bleeds It’s bringin’ me to my knees
From the bands learned experiences in life, love has been more painful than pleasant. These past relationships have scarred members of the band, becoming hesitant about jumping into future relationships. This is why in their opinion love bites.
Final Thoughts:
Failed relationships have taken a toll on me over the first 20 years of my life. One led to a nervous breakdown, others left a trail of heart break and one in college left me scarred for several years. Yet, when God is the center of your relationship, love can be beautiful. Despite the positives of love, it still requires work like the words of the apostle Paul, learning to love others like Jesus taught.
James Ingram was searching for a perfect moment in a relationship where love lasts. Based upon the lyrics of Just Once, James never found what he was looking for. James was longing for an emotional connection that endured the test of time, hoping that his love for one woman would move beyond just a feeling. Finally, James conveys the sadness of love where two individuals can’t get on the same page, eventually going their separate ways.
Week 1 Theme:
Although Valentine’s Day is celebrated throughout the world, many people struggle to overcome the heartbreak of a failed relationship. The next 7 days will highlight the barriers, obstacles, and pain associated with falling in and out of love.
Biblical Application:
We love because He first loved us. 20 Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. 21 And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister, 1 John 4:19-21.
Exegesis of Just Once:
I did my best But I guess my best wasn’t good enough ‘Cause here we are back where we were before Seems nothin’ ever changes We’re back to bein’ strangers Wonderin’ if we ought to stay Or head on out the door
Human effort only takes you so far in a relationship. No matter how hard you try to love someone, the other person must have a mutual interest. While the easy way out is to suggest, “if this was meant to be, we’d still be together.” Yet, love is much more complicated. As individuals change, they either grow closer or further apart. This is how the first stanza ends. When couples don’t share common goals, ideals, and interests, daily conversations become superficial and fade away.
Just once Can we figure out what we keep doin’ wrong? Why we never last for very long What are we doin’ wrong? Just once Can we find a way to finally make it right? To make the magic last for more than just one night? If we could just get to it I know we could break through it
James is referring to someone he is dated more than once. This on again off again relationship is taking an emotional toll on James. This connection appears to be built upon the physical. Subsequently, the magic of one date doesn’t last. Perhaps, due to a lack of vision for the future, this couple falls into the same unhealthy patterns that led to their initial break up.
Hmm-hmm
I gave my all But I think my all may have been too much ‘Cause Lord knows we’re not getting anywhere Seems we’re always blowin’ Whatever we’ve got goin’ And it seems at times with all we’ve got We haven’t got a prayer
When you want something so badly, you try to become the person whom you love wants you to be. Then when the true you is revealed, there is resistance. If you’re honest with yourself like James, you’ll realize that the two of you aren’t compatible. This may explain the comment “we haven’t got a prayer.”
Just once Can we figure out what we keep doin’ wrong? Why the good times never last for long Where are we goin’ wrong? Just once Can’t we find a way to finally make it right? To make the magic last for more than just one night? I know we could break through it If we could just get to it
James is doing everything in his power to save this relationship, hoping for some sort of spark to reignite love. The only question is do both sides want to fight and save this relationship?
Just once I want to understand Why it always comes back to goodbye Why can’t we get ourselves in hand And admit to one another We’re no good without each other? Take the best to make it better Find a way to stay together
When you are about to get dumped, these are the thoughts of someone who doesn’t want to let go of love. Common sense doesn’t work in relationships when the other person has already made up their mind.
Just once Can we find a way to finally make it right? (Whoa!) Make the magic last for more than just one night? I know we could break through it If we could just get to it Just once
Whoa-oh We can get through it Just once
This final portion of the lyrics is like saying a Hail Mary, hoping that God will somehow salvage and save your relationship.
Final Thoughts:
Just Once is part of one of the saddest movie endings. In the final scene of the 1982 film The Last American Virgin, a high school student finds his girlfriend making out with another boy. As he abruptly leaves this party in tears, Just Once plays as he drives home. Unless you’re a rock star or super model, this one scene demonstrates the pain of love that James sings about and most human beings have personally endured.
The inspiration behind Joan Jett’s song is an evolution of artists who sought to compose a rock song that would stand the test of time. This quest began with the Rolling Stones song “It’s Only Rock ‘N’ Roll (But I Like It). Upon hearing this, The Arrows lead singer Alan Merrill was inspired to create a modern equivalent. This spawned I Love Rock N’ Roll which Joan Jett made famous.
Biblical Application:
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. 18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Ephesians 5:15-20.
Exegesis of I Love Rock N’ Roll:
I saw him dancin’ there by the record machine I knew he must’ve been about 17 The beat was goin’ strong Playin’ my favorite song
The opening stanza takes listeners b ack to a time period when diners and restaurants either had a jukebox per booth or a large one where music could be played while you were waiting for your food to arrive. Joan observes a teenager dancing next to a jukebox. The selected song had a great beat and was Joan’s favorite song.
And I could tell it wouldn’t be long ‘Til he was with me, yeah, me And I could tell it wouldn’t be long ‘Til he was with me, yeah, me, singin’
Whether this was love at first sight or two fans coming together to celebrate their favorite song, Joan had a feeling that they would soon be together singing on the dance floor.
“I love rock ‘n roll So put another dime in the jukebox, baby I love rock ‘n roll So come and take your time and dance with me” Ow!
Before apps, computers, and music devices, teenagers gathered around a radio listening to their local station, waiting to hear their new favorite song. Back in the early 1980’s, the only way to hear an entire album was go to the mall to purchase a tape cassette or vinyl record. The less a song was played, the more excited you were to hear it once your radio station played it. The jukebox was the social center of an establishment. Hit songs were played over and over again.
He smiled, so I got up and asked for his name “That don’t matter”, he said, “‘Cause it’s all the same” Said, “Can I take you home where we can be alone?”
Normally, guys would wait for a slow song before asking a girl to dance. However, in this case, the bond for music created an instant connection between these two.
And next, we were movin’ on, he was with me, yeah, me Next, we were movin’ on, he was with me, yeah, me, singin’
Joan’s dream came true, now a couple thanks to a common interest in the same artist.
“I love rock ‘n roll So put another dime in the jukebox, baby I love rock ‘n roll So come and take your time and dance with me” Ow!
Music is a way to celebrate life.
Said, “Can I take you home where we can be alone?
Next, we were movin’ on, he was with me, yeah, me And we’ll be movin’ on and singin’ that same old song Yeah, with me, singin’
Love and relationships can happen fast when you share a common interest.
“I love rock ‘n roll So put another dime in the jukebox, baby I love rock ‘n roll So come and take your time and dance with me”
Music can unite people.
I love rock ‘n roll So put another dime in the jukebox, baby I love rock ‘n roll So come and take your time and dance with-
This repetitive chorus encourages listeners to dance.
I love rock ‘n roll So put another dime in the jukebox, baby I love rock ‘n roll So come and take your time and dance with-
I love rock ‘n roll So put another dime in the jukebox, baby I love rock ‘n roll So come and take your time and dance with-
There was a time when local high schools had a dance every month. These events were like scenes from Footloose as teenagers express their individuality through dancing. Dancing alone is awkward, but when you are with someone else it’s easier to stay on beat and get in a groove.
I love rock ‘n roll So put another dime in the jukebox, baby I love rock ‘n roll So come and take your time and dance with me
Joan sings about a time in America that doesn’t exist anymore as teenagers are too distracted by their phones and social media. Social interaction has been lost and stunted due to the lack of hangouts that exist centered around music.
Final Thoughts:
I was an extremely shy teenager until I went to my first high school dance as a sophomore. Although I didn’t know what I was doing, I tried to emulate my cross-country teammates. Once I learned how to dance by developing my own unique moves, I became confident like Joan, seeing myself with someone I liked, no longer afraid to ask a girl to dance during a ballad.
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.
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