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The Message Behind the Music-June 23

Posted on June 23, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Rick Springfield – Jessie’s Girl (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind Jessie’s Girl:

Rick Springfield was taking a stained-glass art class in Pasadena, California, when he developed a crush on one of the women in his class. Unfortunately, she was already in a romantic relationship with one of Rick’s friends. This unrelenting crush didn’t go away so Rick wrote the song Gary’s Girl after his friend. However, the name didn’t sit well with Rick. The search for a replacement name was discovered on a T-shirt as Jessie sounded better and felt right. The lyrics reflect the disappointment of being in love but overshadowed by someone more charismatic.

Biblical Application:

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice, James 3:13-16.

Exegesis of Jessie’s Girl:

Jessie is a friend
Yeah, I know, he’s been a good friend of mine
But lately something’s changed that ain’t hard to define
Jessie’s got himself a girl and I want to make her mine

This woman in his art class was growing on Rick. The more he spent time with her in class, the greater his crush on her grew. Unfortunately, his friend Gary was already dating her.

And she’s watching him with those eyes
And she’s loving him with that body, I just know it
Yeah, and he’s holding her in his arms late, late at night
You know, I wish that I had

Rick is starting to become envious of his friend, wishing he could feel what Gary is feeling when this couple is together.

Jessie’s girl
I wish that I had Jessie’s girl
Where can I find a woman like that?

No one that he has met compares to this woman.

I’ll play along with the charade
There doesn’t seem to be a reason to change
You know, I feel so dirty when they start talking cute
I wanna tell her that I love her, but the point is probably moot

Every time Rick thinks he has a chance, Gary is there to meet her after class. Rick is losing hope, thinking it’s not worth telling her how he feels.

‘Cause she’s watching him with those eyes
And she’s loving him with that body, I just know it
And he’s holding her in his arms late, late at night
You know, I wish that I had

He looks and their relationship is too much for Rick to handle.

Jessie’s girl
I wish that I had Jessie’s girl
Where can I find a woman like that?

He wishes that he could trade places with his friend.

Like Jessie’s girl
I wish that I had Jessie’s girl
Where can I find a woman-
Where can I find a woman like that?

No one compared to his friend’s girlfriend.

And I’m looking in the mirror all the time
Wonderin’ what she don’t see in me
I’ve been funny, I’ve been cool with the lines
Ain’t that the way love’s supposed to be?

Rick has tried to impress her, but her mind is on Gary.

Tell me, where can I find a woman like that?

You know, I wish that I had

Rick is now consumed with jealousy.

Jessie’s girl
I wish that I had Jessie’s girl
I want Jessie’s girl
Where can I find a woman like that?

Rick couldn’t move on until he found someone like her.

Like Jessie’s girl
I wish that I had Jessie’s girl
I want, I want Jessie’s girl

The frustrating part of becoming consumed by envy and jealousy.

Final Thoughts:

Jessie’s Girl reminds me of 2 situations from my own life. My best friend from high school, Carl, we decided early on that we would never date someone that the other liked. When one of the most attractive girls on the cross-country team asked me out, I declined as I was in love with one of her friends. I told her how Carl felt and they went out on a date before each moving on to another person. Meanwhile, in college, I was in a similar situation as Rick. I liked a girl who liked a close friend. When I finally revealed how I felt about her, she simply wanted to be friends. After this conversation, I walked away from this friendship as it was too painful to be with her and only be a friend. This is how I handled the situation in Jessie’s Girl.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-June 16

Posted on June 16, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Men At Work – Down Under (Official HD Video)

Inspiration Behind Down Under:

 Colin Hay and Ron Strykert started writing Down Under in 1980, finishing this a year later. What began as an attempt to promote Australia to the world, ended in a loss of country spirit due to overdevelopment and exploitation of their beloved land. These lyrics highlight Colin’s travel abroad, including Brussels. Men at Work’s upbeat, reggae-infused anthem celebrates Australian identity, but takes a swipe at globalization and cultural preservation.

Biblical Application:

For there are many rebellious people, full of meaningless talk and deception, especially those of the circumcision group. 11 They must be silenced, because they are disrupting whole households by teaching things they ought not to teach—and that for the sake of dishonest gain. 12 One of Crete’s own prophets has said it: “Cretans are always liars, evil brutes, lazy gluttons.”[c] 13 This saying is true. Therefore rebuke them sharply, so that they will be sound in the faith, Titus 1:10-13.

Exegesis of Down Under:

Traveling in a fried-out Kombi
On a hippie trail, head full of zombie
I met a strange lady, she made me nervous
She took me in and gave me breakfast
And she said

Colin provides a vivid description of his travels abroad. He either tries to reveal who he met or embellishes. Despite the backwardness, she was hospitable.

“Do you come from a land down under
Where women glow and men plunder?
Can’t you hear, can’t you hear the thunder?
You better run, you better take cover”

The chorus elevate woman of Australia and take a swipe at men. The thunder could be a storm or a herd of animals coming quickly in your direction.

Buying bread from a man in Brussels
He was six-foot-four and full of muscle
I said, “Do you speak-a my language?”
He just smiled and gave me a Vegemite sandwich
And he said

Colin reveals a specific story about trying to overcome the language barrier, getting more than he asked for.

“I come from a land down under
Where beer does flow and men chunder
Can’t you hear, can’t you hear the thunder?
You better run, you better take cover, yeah”

A brief background of Australia.

Lying in a den in Bombay
With a slack jaw and not much to say
I said to the man, “Are you trying to tempt me?
Because I come from the land of plenty”
And he said

Another odd encounter, seems slightly embellished.

Oh, do you come from a land down under? (Ooh, yeah-yeah)
Where women glow and men plunder?
Can’t you hear, can’t you hear the thunder?
You better run, you better take cover, ’cause we are

Every where Colin went, he tried to describe what it is like in Australia.

Living in a land down under
Where women glow and men plunder (yeah)
Can’t you hear, can’t you hear the thunder? (Thunder)
You better-better run, you better take cover

The first repeat chorus, back-to-back, suggesting the end is near.

Living in a land down under
Where women glow and men plunder
Can’t you hear, can’t you hear the thunder? Ooh, yeah
You better run, you better take cover

Winding down, without a new stanza in sight.

(We are) living in a land down under (ooh, yeah)
Where women glow and men plunder
Can’t you, can’t you hear the thunder? (Can’t you, can’t you hear the thunder?)
You better run, you better take cover

The we point to Colin and Ron, with most of the chorus left unchanged except for the second warning of thunder.

Living in a land down under (living in a land down under)
Where women glow and men plunder
Can’t you, can’t you hear the thunder?

This is Men at Work’s brief glimpse of Australia.

Final Thoughts:

Men at Work arrived in America when I was in Junior High. Something about their unique sound made me a fan early on. I bought their first 2 albums, playing them almost every night before going to sleep. While my favorite songs are on the Blue for You album, 1983, Down Under has that classic summer sound with lyrics full of travel.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-June 14

Posted on June 14, 2026 by expressyourself4him

John Mellencamp – Jack & Diane (Official Music Video)

Inspiration Behind Jack and Diane:

John Mellencamp’ blended personal experiences with a combination of creative changes and cultural observations to craft the lyrics of Jack and Diane. Mellencamp was influenced by the number of blended couples that enjoyed his concerts together. Meanwhile, the idea for this song came after watching Tennessee Williams’ 1962 play Sweet Bird of Youth. When you put everything together, Jack and Diane have become a classic summer song.

Biblical Application:

On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. 14 One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message. 15 When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. “If you consider me a believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my house.” And she persuaded us. Acts 16:13-15.

Exegesis of Jack and Diane:

Little ditty about Jack and Diane
Two American kids growin’ up in the heartland
Jacky’s gonna be a football star
Diane debutante backseat of Jacky’s car

An embellished tale of 2 teenagers growing up in the middle of America.


Suckin’ on a chili dog outside the Tastee Freeze
Diane’s sittin’ on Jacky’s lap
He’s got his hand between her knees
Jacky say “Hey Diane lets run off
Behind a shady tree”
Dribble off those Bobby Brooks slacks
Let me do what I please.
And Jacky say

This couple is enjoying the summer together at their local hangout. Jack wants to run away together and get married to avoid all the cultural tension of their relationship.


Oh yeah life goes on
Long after the thrill of livin’ is gone
Oh yeah say life goes on
Long after the thrill of livin’ is gone, they walk on

Jack doesn’t want to lose the passion that he has for Diane. Unfortunately, time has a way of changing human beings.


Jacky sits back collects his thoughts for the moment
Scratches his head and does his best James Dean.
Well then there Diane, we oughtta run of the city
Diane says “Baby, you ain’t missing’ no-thing”
Jacky say a

Jack is trying to impersonate his favorite actor, trying to convince Diane to run off with him.


Oh yeah life goes on
Long after the thrill of livin’ is gone
Oh yeah say life goes on
Long after the thrill of livin’ is gone,

The emotions that Jack is feeling will eventually wear off.


Gonna let it rock
Let it roll
Let the Bible belt come down
And save my soul
Hold on to sixteen as long as you can
Changes come around real soon
Make us women and men

Jack and Diane are going against what local churches believed at the time this song was written. Subsequently, they asked God for forgiveness. As teenagers, both are seeking to seize these moments together.


Oh yeah life goes on
Long after the thrill of livin’ is gone
Oh yeah say life goes on
Long after the thrill of livin’ is gone,
Little ditty about Jack and Diane
Two American kids doing the best they can

This is a quick story about 2 teenagers trying to do the best that they can. As time goes by, emotions and feelings change.

Final Thoughts:

Most teenagers have a special person that they grew up with. This could be a neighbor, a friend or someone that you dated. While Diana was my high school sweetheart, Jeanette was a lifelong friend, the younger sister that I never had. Growing up with these special people leave fond memories expressed in Jack and Diane. These are the moments, the Glory Days that make you feel young again. This is the impact that Jack and Diane has had on my life.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-June 6

Posted on June 6, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Jimmy Buffett – Margaritaville (Audio)

Inspiration Behind Margaritaville:

Jimmy Buffet was drinking a margarita at a Mexican Restaurant in Austin, Texas when the idea for Margaritaville popped into his head. While staying at a friend’s house later that night, margaritas began to flow as the lyrics to Margaritaville were conceived. Margaritaville became such a popular song that Wyndham Resorts started creating Margaritaville’s inside their exclusive resorts a decade ago.

Biblical Application:

Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch, Acts 11:25-26.

Exegesis of Margaritaville:

Nibblin’ on sponge cake
Watchin’ the sun bake
All of those tourists covered with oil
Strummin’ my six-string
On my front porch swing
Smell those shrimp, they’re beginnin’ to boil

Jimmy envisioned Margaritaville as a place near the beach, filled with tourists tanning in the sun. However, Margaritaville isn’t limited to one location, this atmosphere can also be created at home while cooking.

Wastin’ away again in Margaritaville
Searchin’ for my lost shaker of salt
Some people claim that there’s a woman to blame
But I know, it’s nobody’s fault

Margaritaville is the anti-big city, a place where you chill, shooting the breeze with a friend. No one is to blame for losing something that you misplace.

Don’t know the reason
Stayed here all season
Nothing to show but this brand-new tattoo
But it’s a real beauty
A Mexican cutie
How it got here, I haven’t a clue

Sometimes Margaritaville gets out of hand, doing things that you forget and regret.

Wastin’ away again in Margaritaville
Searchin’ for my lost shaker of salt
Some people claim that there’s a woman to blame But I know, it’s nobody’s fault

Repeating the chorus for the first time as Jimmy doesn’t want to get into an argument.

I blew out my flip-flop
Stepped on a pop top
Cut my heel, had to cruise on back home
But there’s booze in the blender
And soon it will render
That frozen concoction that helps me hang on

This stanza begins with a vision of a hangover. Sometimes alcohol is used to numb the pain in your life.

Wastin’ away again in Margaritaville
Searchin’ for my lost shaker of salt
Some people claim that there’s a woman to blame
But I know, it’s my own damn fault

When you are tired and drunk, you don’t function well.as minds struggle to focus. This likely led Jimmy to forget where he placed his saltshaker.

Yes, and some people claim
That there’s a woman to blame
And I know, it’s my own damn fault

Jimmy changes the chorus to take responsibility for his own actions.

Final Thoughts:

When my parents moved to Ohio while I was in college, I met several Parrot heads, fans of Jimmy Buffet. Several of the students that I went to the Cleveland Flats with, a riverfront area with nightclubs, filled the dance floor when a Jimmy Buffet song was played. Although I don’t drink anymore, I appreciate the relaxing melody and sound of Margaritaville.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-June 5

Posted on June 5, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Van Morrison – Brown Eyed Girl (Official Audio)

Inspiration Behind Brown Eyed Girl:

The concept of Brown Eyed Girl was inspired by a mix of a personal experience, Irish musical influences and Van Morrison’s creative juices early in his career. Growing up in East Belfast, Van Morrison never disclosed the girl from this song, but it is assumed that she was a boyhood love that captured his attention. This special girl led to a classic summer song that still remains relative today.

Biblical Application:

[b]A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.11 Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. 12 She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life, Proverbs 31:10-12.

Exegesis of Brown Eyed Girl:

Hey, where did we go?
Days when the rains came
Down in the hollow
Playin’ a new game

This girl only came out to play when the weather was good. Van Morrison recalls seeing her while playing games with neighborhood kids.

Laughin’ and a-runnin’, hey-hey
Skippin’ and a-jumpin’
In the misty morning fog with
Our, our hearts a-thumping and you

The energy and joy within this girl got his attention.

My brown-eyed girl
And you, my brown-eyed girl

Since the weather was never great in Ireland, these brown eyes stuck out as the morning fog faded away.

And whatever happened
To Tuesday and so slow?
Going down the old mine with a
Transistor radio

The timeline skips forward now, either to teenage years or slightly older.

Standing in the sunlight laughing
Hiding ‘hind a rainbow’s wall
Slippin’ and slidin’
All along the waterfall with you

Playing and growing up with this girl brought joy to Van Morrison’s life.

My brown-eyed girl
You, my brown-eyed girl

These eyes were special.

Do you remember when we used to sing?
Sha-la-la, la-la, la-la, la-la, la-la-tee-da
Just like that
Sha-la-la, la-la, la-la, la-la, la-la-tee-da
La-tee-da

A reference to either singing as children or as a teenager listening to a local radio statiion.

So hard to find my way
Now that I’m all on my own
I saw you just the other day
My, how you have grown

This girl has become a woman as each has gone their own separate ways.

Cast my memory back there, Lord
Sometimes I’m overcome thinking ’bout it
Making love in the green grass
Behind the stadium with you

A reference to sharing intimate moments together.

My brown-eyed girl
You, my brown-eyed girl

Van Morrison remembers the good ole days.

Do you remember when we used to sing?
Sha-la-la, la-la, la-la, la-la, la-la-tee-da (I hear the crickets)
Sha-la-la, la-la, la-la, la-la, la-la-tee-da (bit by, bit by, bit by, bit by, bit by, bit)
Sha-la-la, la-la, la-la, tee-da-la, tee-da-la-tee-da
Sha-la-la, la-la, la-la, la-la, la-la-tee-da

Either a silly game or song that they sang together.

Final Thoughts:

This is one of those fun summer songs that I heard growing up each summer. When you were a child, you didn’t have any responsibilities during the summer. When the weather was good, you stayed out until it was dark or when your parents rang the dinner bell. Brown Eyed Girl remind me of the innocence of my youth, growing up without a care in the world. If only adults could learn this valuable life lesson from children having fun in the sun.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-June 2

Posted on June 2, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Don Henley – The Boys Of Summer

Inspiration Behind the Boys of Summer:

Don Henley wrote the lyrics while Mike Campbell created the music for the Boyd of Summer, part of Henley’s solo album Building the Perfect Beast. The words reflect upon a man who can’t get over the girl that left him. Despite this anti-summer message, the Boys of Summer reached #5 on the Top 100 Hot Billboard Charts. The title comes from Roger Kahn’s 1972 baseball book The Boys of Summer. Henley used this a metaphor for youthful. fleeting romance.

Biblical Application:

Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? – 2 Corinthians 6:14

Exegesis of The Boys of Summer:

nobody on the road, nobody on the beach
I feel it in the air, the summer’s out of reach
empty lake, empty streets, the sun goes down alone
I’m drivin by your house, though I know you’re not home

While everyone is now on vacation, out of town, a man is taking a trip down memory lane, checking up on an old girlfriend that he hasn’t been able to let go of.

but I can see you, your brown skin shining in the sun, you got your hair combed back and your sunglasses on, baby I can tell you my love for you will still be strong, after the boys of summer have gone

This man has a flashback of his ex. After any summer flings that she may be having, he wants her to know that his love for her is stronger than ever.

I never will forget those nights, I wonder if it was a dream
remember how you made me crazy, remember how I made you scream
now I don’t understand what happened to our love
but babe I’m gonna get you back, gonna show you what I’m made of

This man has amazing memories of their past together. These special moments revive his desire to get her back, doing everything in his power to show her his relentless love for her.

I can see you, your brown skin shining in the sun, I see you walking real slow, smiling at everyone
I can tell you my love for you will still be strong, after the boys of summer have gone

Another image in his mind of her beauty.

out on the road today I saw a DEAD HEAD sticker on a caddilac
a little voice inside my head said don’t look back you can never look back
I thought I knew what love was, what did I know
those days are gone forever I should just let ’em go, but

A Grateful Dead bumper sticker serves as a reality check to finally move on from this girl. Yet, he is confused, unsure of what love is, clinging to a prayer.

I can see you, your brown skin shining in the sun, you got the top pulled down radio on
I can tell you my love for you will still be strong, after the boys of summer have gone

This man is stuck in the past, unable to let go of her.

I can see you, your brown skin shining in the sun, you got your hair slicked back and those wave fellas on, baby I can tell you my love for you will still be strong, after the boys of summer have gone

He is hoping that time will change her mind, coming back to him in the fall.

Final Thoughts:

As someone who was dumped more in high school than most guys my age, I too struggled to move on. When I was lonely, I drove by the houses of ex-girlfriends, wondering how they were doing. However, while in college, I began to mature. Although it was never easy to move on from someone I cared deeply about, I learned from the school of hard knocks via trial and error. This is simply part of life, living and learning.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-June 1: A Season of Recreation, Restoration and Revitalization

Posted on June 1, 2026 by expressyourself4him

The Go-Go’s – Vacation

Monthly Theme:

As a former high school teacher, by the end of May, you are emotionally, mentally and physically exhausted. The summertime which followed final exams in early June was the season that students and teachers alike were waiting for. Since my school didn’t begin until the Tuesday after Labor Day weekend, June commenced a time for recreation. As human beings begin to recreate, restoration and revitalization is a byproduct of having fun in the sun.

Inspiration Behind Vacation:

Kathy Velentine was visiting her mother who lived in Austin, Texas back in 1980. This trip from Los Angeles, California allowed her to meet a charming man. On the plane ride back to Los Angeles, Kathy started writing on napkins as the words to Vacation began to flow. As the lead singer of Boy Problems, Kathy completed the melody and chords when she got back home. Upon joining the Go-Go’s later on in the year, members Jane Wiedlen and Charlotte Caffey loved it as Vacation became a reality.

Biblical Application:

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations,I will be exalted in the earth,” Psalm 46:10.

Exegesis of Vacation:

Can’t seem to get my mind off of you
Back here at home, there’s nothin’ to do
Now that I’m away, I wish I’d stayed
Tomorrow’s a day of mine that you won’t be in

Kathy can’t stop thinking about this charming man that she just met. Upon arriving back home in Los Angeles, it’s back to reality. Kathy wished her vacation didn’t end, knowing that this man won’t be a part of her tomorrow.

When you looked at me, I should have run
But I thought it was just for fun
I see I was wrong, and I’m not so strong
I should have known all along that time would tell

Kathy wishes that she didn’t get involved, thinking she’d just have fun. Unfortunately, there is nothing she can do now as this fun in the sun has ended.

A week without you
Thought I’d forget
Two weeks without you and I
Still haven’t gotten over you yet

One week later, Kathy still can’t get this man out of her mind. Kathy seems like she wished her vacation never ended.

Vacation, all I ever wanted
Vacation, had to get away
Vacation, meant to be spent all alone

Time away from Los Angeles on vacation was great, something she longed for. However, her initial plans were to be all alone.

Vacation, all I ever wanted
Vacation, had to get away
Vacation, meant to be spent all alone

Repeating this chorus may point to frustration, perhaps getting emotionally involved.

A week without you
Thought I’d forget
Two weeks without you and I
Still haven’t gotten over you yet

Despite being back home, Kathy can’t get this charming man off her mind.

Vacation, all I ever wanted
Vacation, had to get away
Vacation, meant to be spent all alone

The trip served its purpose except for becoming emotionally involved.

Vacation, all I ever wanted
Vacation, had to get away
Vacation, meant to be spent all alone

Finishing with 3 straight choruses suggests that Kathy is frustrated with herself.

Vacation, all I ever wanted
Vacation, had to get away
Vacation, meant to be spent all alone

The one thing about any vacation is that you never know who you are going to meet.

Final Thoughts:

My father took the month of August off, traveling to Maine to refresh his body, mind and spirit from work. This is the one time every summer that my father had time for his children due to his busy work schedule. This is where I caught my first fish, went swimming for the first time and hung out with the same kids’ year after year. Maine became a refreshing time as I got older, training for cross-country in the mountains, playing golf on sunny days and fishing in the rain. This time of restoration and revitalization prepared me for the upcoming school year. Now as a father and grandfather, I try to make myself available to my family so we could enjoy memorable trips like going to the Grand Canyon. This is what vacation means to me.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-May 28

Posted on May 28, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Soul Asylum – Runaway Train (Official HD Video)

Inspiration Behind Runaway Train:

Dave Pirner wrote Runaway Train during a period of anxiety and depression in his life. In addition, Dave has been diagnosed with tinnitus, a ringing in the ears that can lead to a total loss of hearing. While the attached You Tube points to the million children missing in America, the ringing in Dave’s ears is like hearing a runaway train.

Biblical Application:

Then Jesus left the vicinity of Tyre and went through Sidon, down to the Sea of Galilee and into the region of the Decapolis.[h] 32 There some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly talk, and they begged Jesus to place his hand on him. 33 After he took him aside, away from the crowd, Jesus put his fingers into the man’s ears. Then he spit and touched theman’s tongue. 34 He looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh said to him, “Ephphatha!” (which means “Be opened!”). 35 At this, the man’s ears were opened, his tongue was loosened and he began to speak plainly, Mark 7:31-35.

Exegesis of Runaway Train:

[Verse 1]
Call you up in the middle of the night
Like a firefly without a light
You were there like a blowtorch burning
I was a key that could use a little turning
So tired that I couldn’t even sleep
So many secrets I couldn’t keep
Promised myself I wouldn’t weep
One more promise I couldn’t keep

Dave is either referring to his hearing or personal matters that are quickly getting out of control. Dave is seeking help from a friend. After coming over, Dave appears to open up, revealing secrets from his past.

[Pre-Chrous]
It seems no one can help me now
I’m in too deep
There’s no way out
This time I have really led myself astray

Dave feels like he is stuck on a runaway train, beginning to think that no one can help him.

[Chorus]
Runaway train never going back
Wrong way on a one-way track
Seems like I should be getting somewhere
Somehow, I’m neither here nor there

Dave doesn’t appear to be making any progress in life, starting to go backwards.

[Verse 2]
Can you help me remember how to smile?
Make it somehow all seem worthwhile
How on earth did I get so jaded?
Life’s mystery seems so faded
I can go where no one else can go
I know what no one else knows
Here I am, just a-drowning in the rain
With a ticket for a runaway train

Dave is battling depression. Joy for life has been replaced by sarcasm. Dave has some painful things that he is keeping to himself, making him feel like he is drowning.

[Pre-Chorus]
And everything seems cut and dry
Day and night
Earth and sky
Somehow, I just don’t believe it

Dave’s heart has grown cold, frustrated by the hand life has dealt him.

[Chorus]
Runaway train never going back
Wrong way on a one-way track
Seems like I should be getting somewhere
Somehow, I’m neither here nor there

Dave is stuck in a rut, struggling to break free.

[Bridge]
Bought a ticket for a runaway train
Like a madman laughing at the rain
A little out of touch, a little insane
It’s just easier than dealing with the pain

Dave is on the verge of losing it, nearing a mental breakdown.

[Chorus]
Runaway train never going back
Wrong way on a one-way track
Seems like I should be getting somewhere
Somehow, I’m neither here nor there

Dave’s life is stuck in neutral.

[Outro]
Runaway train never coming back
Runaway train tearing up the track
Runaway train burning in my veins
I run away, but it always seems the same

Dave can’t escape his trouble in life.

Final Thoughts:

The lyrics of Runaway train fit well into May’s Mental Health Awareness. When you are going through a difficult stretch in life like Dave, you need a support group to encourage you. Trying to deal with problems all alone may seem like a good idea at first, but the father of lies, the Devil, seeks to kill and destroy souls, John 10:10. Instead of allowing this train to keep on speeding ahead out of control, cry out to Jesus, Matthew 11:28-30. Lay your burdens at the feet of Jesus so that you can begin to heal.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-May 27

Posted on May 27, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Bad English – When I See You Smile

Inspiration Behind When I See You Smile:

Songwriter Diane Warren wrote When I See You Smile as a tribute to her father. Dinae’s father was the only person who believed in her dream to be a songwriter and supported her throughout the years. After writing When I See You Smile, Diane didn’t think it was that special. However, after receiving positive feedback, she placed this in the hands of Bad English. This ballad became a hit which is still aired today.

Biblical Application:

A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit, Proverbs 15:13.

Exegesis of When I See You Smile:

Sometimes I wonder
How I’d ever make it through
Through this world without having you
I just wouldn’t have a clue

Diane reflects upon the impact that her father has had on her life.

‘Cause sometimes it seems
Like this world’s closing in on me
And there’s no way of breaking free
And then I see you reach for me

During Diane’s early trials of being a songwriter, her father’s support meant the world. Based upon the final line, Diane’s father was encouraging and uplifting.

Sometimes I wanna give up
I wanna give in
I wanna quit the fight
And then I see you, baby
And everything’s alright
Everything’s alright

Diane’s father must have been a special person. There were times she wanted to quit, but deep down she didn’t want to disappoint her dad.

When I see you smile
I can face the world, oh
You know I can do anything
When I see you smile
I see a ray of light, oh

Diane’s father instilled within her confidence that she would succeed. Seeing his smile only inspired her more to press on.

I see it shining right through the rain
When I see you smile
Baby, when I see you smile at me
Oh yeah

Even when apart, Diane had an image of her father smiling which stuck with her through the years.

Baby, there’s nothing in this world
That could ever do
What a touch of your hand can do
It’s like nothing that I ever knew, hey

When Diane showed any sign of depression, her father touched her hand or give her a hug for encouragement.

And when the rain is falling, I don’t feel it
‘Cause you’re here with me now
And one look at you, baby
Is all I’ll ever need, is all I’ll ever need

Diane’s father’s smile was implanted within her mind, bringing sunshine to a rainy day. His smile is all she needed.

When I see you smile
I can face the world, oh
You know I can do anything
When I see you smile
I see a ray of light, oh
I see it shining right through the rain
When I see you smile, baby
Baby, when I see you smile at me

Sometimes positive body language is the only thing that needs to be displayed like a warm smile.

Sometimes I wanna give up
I wanna give in
I wanna quit the fight
Then one look at you, baby
And everything’s alright
Everything’s alright, so right

Her father’s steady support kept Diane from giving up on her dream.

When I see you smile
I can face the world, oh
You know I can do anything, yeah
When I see you smile
I see a ray of light, oh
I see it shining right through the rain, yeah

This repetitive chorus drives home the importance of staying positive in life.

When I see you smile
Yeah, I can face the world, oh
You know I can do anything
When I see you smile, oh yeah
Baby, when I see you smile
Smile at me

Smiles are like rays of light, an unspoken sign to keep going until you fulfill your dreams in life.

Final Thoughts:

Of all the songs I have researched in 2026, Diane Warren’s inspiration for When I See You Smile is the most moving. As Diane reflected upon her father, I was brought to tears, thinking about my own father who passed away 2 years ago. Despite this sadness, I was able to write a screenplay about his adventure to America entitled the Improbable Escape. While this movie is still unknown to the world, I can’t imagine Diane’s feeling of accomplishment when Bad English turned her song into a classic ballad which still hits home today. This success story makes me smile.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-May 22

Posted on May 22, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Blue Oyster Cult – (Don’t Fear) The Reaper (Lyrics)

Inspiration Behind the Reaper:

The front man for Blue Oyster Cult, Donald Roeser, wrote the Reaper at 28 after being diagnosed with heart arrhythmia. Donald used this life crisis as a way to confront his own mortality. Blue Oyster Cult wanted to create something more than a pop song in 1976, using Donald’s personal experience and literary influences to craft the lyrics to the Reaper. Tired of being just a top 40 band. Donald channeled his inner Jethro Tull to shape the sound of the Reaper.

Biblical Application:

Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes, James 4:13-14.

Exegesis of the Reaper:

All our times have come
Here, but now they’re gone

Life flies by as time, clocks, keep ticking.

Seasons don’t fear the Reaper
Nor do the wind, the sun, or the rain
(We can be like they are) come on, baby
(Don’t fear the Reaper) baby, take my hand
(Don’t fear the Reaper) we’ll be able to fly
(Don’t fear the Reaper) baby, I’m your man

La, la-la-la-la
La, la-la-la-la

Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall, the weather, isn’t influenced or impacted by the Reaper. However, the Reaper will use global crisis’s, national disasters, and severe storms to spread fear throughout mankind. Upon hearing his diagnosis, Donald didn’t want his medical condition to influence his relationship at this time.

Valentine is done
Here, but now they’re gone

Donald appears to reference St. Valentine who was martyred for trying to protect sacred marriage in his day. Valentine faced the Reaper, willing to die for his faith.

Romeo and Juliet are together in eternity (Romeo and Juliet)
Forty thousand men and women every day (like Romeo and Juliet)
Forty thousand men and women every day (redefine happiness)
Another forty thousand coming every day

In this stanza, Donald uses Shakespear to illustrate his point, willing to die if their parents didn’t let them marry. History is filled with countless individuals who couldn’t escape the Reaper.

(We can be like they are) come on, baby

Donald is trying to convince the love of his life to not be afraid.

(Don’t fear the Reaper) baby, take my hand
(Don’t fear the Reaper) we’ll be able to fly
(Don’t fear the Reaper) baby, I’m your man

We can make it if we stick together.

La, la-la-la-la
La, la-la-la-la

A subtle transition.

Love of two is one
Here, but now they’re gone

Perhaps a reference to the unity of a strong marriage as a couple becomes one.

Came the last night of sadness
And it was clear she couldn’t go on
The door was open and the wind appeared
The candles blew and then disappeared
The curtains flew and then he appeared

A poetic stanza which highlights that human life is short, like a mist that suddenly disappears.

(Saying, “Don’t be afraid”) come on, baby
(And she had no fear) and she ran to him
(Then they started to fly) they looked backward and said goodbye
(She might become like they are) she had taken his hand
(She had become like they are) come on, baby
(Don’t fear the Reaper)

The last stanza serves as a final call to face your fears, stand together and live life to its fullest.

Final Thoughts:

The Reaper appeared in the 1978 horror film Halloween. However, it was one of the opening scenes in Stephen King’s The Stand which helped me appreciate the Reaper. The melody and lyrics combine to create a timeless classic. As someone who has faced a series of life altering events, my faith in Christ has removed most of my fear of dying. As a recent grandfather, there are several events that I would like to be around to witness, but only God knows when I will breathe my last breath.

by Jay Mankus

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