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The Message Behind the Music-August 3

Posted on August 3, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Lucero – Back in Ohio (Official Lyric Video)

Inspiration Behind Back in Ohio:

Back in Ohio was inspired by the true story of William Morgan. This former paratrooper from Toledo, Ohio, went on to become a Cuban freedom fighter. Following a stint in prison, William wanted to free Cuba from its communist dictator, Fidel Castro. After Ben Nichols watched the 2015 PBS documentary American Comandante about William’s life and execution, he wanted to honor the life of a very interesting character.

Biblical Application:

If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them, James 4:17.

Exegesis of Back in Ohio:

On the open ocean
Sailing down to Cuba
Guns are in the galley
Someone’s gotta shoot ’em

William Morgan’s journey to become a freedom fighter in Cuba.

Away-away, oh
Destiny awaits
Sailing to redemption
They’ll miss you
Back home in Ohio
Back in Ohio

Morgan likely sailed to Cuba as commercial flights were prohibited. William was consumed by redemption. Perhaps, a going away party was thrown in Toledo, Ohio.

You threw knives in the circus
Now you’re fighting in the jungle
You’ve got babies in Miami
A rebel for a lover

One of William’s odd jobs in life. Fighting in the jungles of Cuba while his children and lover wait, living in Miami.

Away-away, oh
Destiny awaits
Sailing to redemption
But they’ll miss you
Back home in Ohio

Back in Ohio

The chorus is repeated. The way Lucero sings Ohio, the chorus only needs to be one line.

Looking down the barrel’s
Of 20 loaded guns
All the letters written
All the fighting’s been done
A man without a country
Ain’t getting out alive
They never collected the bounty
You’re still left to pay the price

Using what was learned in the PBS documentary to create an entire stanza about William Morgan.

Away-away, oh
Destiny awaits
Sailing to redemption
But they’ll miss you
Back home in-

Family and friends missed William, especially after receiving news of his death.

Away-away, oh
Your destiny awaits
You’re sailing to redemption
But they’ll miss you
Back home in Ohio

Redemption for Cuba is why he got on this sailboat.

Back in Ohio
Back in Ohio
Back in Ohio

Now he is back in Ohio.

Final Thoughts:

Since my parents spent ten years living in Ohio, I ended up doing my college internship just outside of Cleveland. I was informed of the Cuyahoga River fires but never heard about William Morgan. When you are passionate about a specific cause, you’ll lay down your life for what you believe in. This is the legacy of William from Ohio.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 2

Posted on August 2, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Jason Isbell, The 400 Unit – Alabama Pines

Inspiration Behind Alabama Pines:

Jason writes about the unique native pine species that define Alabama’s natural landscape and cultural identity. While Alabama is home to several specifies, the Longleaf Pine is the state tree. The symbolism behind the Alabama Pines is that despite the warm climate and various soil types, these trees are enduring and resilient. From Jason’s perspective, if these trees can survive over the years, so can I.

Biblical Application:

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, 2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers, Psalm 1:1-3.

Exegesis of Alabama Pines:

[Verse 1]
Well, I moved into this room
If you could call it that, a week ago
I never do what I’m supposed to do
Hardly even know my name anymore
When no one calls it out, it kinda vanishes away

Sounds like Jason is referring to a room in his house that he now calls his office. The songs which once naturally flowed out of his mind and onto a paper have stopped. This lack of progress has impacted his career.

[Verse 2]
I can’t get to sleep at night
The parking lot’s so loud and bright
The A/C hasn’t worked in twenty years
Probably never made a single person cold
But I can’t say the same for me, I’ve done it many times

Jason writes about the barriers and obstacles in his life. While he can’t ever get cold enough, he’s made plenty of people cold and unwelcomed.

[Chorus]
Somebody take me home
Through those Alabama pines

This is why Jason feels the need to return home to Alabama.

[Verse 3]
You can’t drive through Talladega
On a weekend in October
Just head up north to Jacksonville, cut around and over
Watch your speed in Boiling Springs
They ain’t got a thing to do, they’ll get you every time

Jason details his life experiences of living in Alabama, especially where not to speed.

[Chorus]
Somebody take me home
Through those Alabama pines
Somebody take me home
Through those Alabama pines

Alabama holds a special place in Jason’s heart, especially the distinct pines back home.

[Verse 4]
If we pass through on a Sunday
Better make a stop at Wayne’s
It’s the only open liquor store north
And I can’t stand the pain
Of being by myself without a little help on a Sunday afternoon

Jason has turned to alcohol to numb his pain of being alone without any help.

[Verse 5]
Well, I needed that damn woman like a dream needs gasoline
And I tried to be some ancient kind of man
One that’s never seen the beauty in the world
But I tried to chase it down
Tried to make the whole thing mine

Jason hasn’t had much success finding the right woman. Jason has even changed who he is to make things work.

[Chorus]
Somebody take me home
Through those Alabama pines
Somebody take me home
Through those Alabama pines

This rough stretch in life makes Jason want to return home.

[Verse 6]
I’ve been stuck here in this town
If you could call it that, a year or two
I never do what I’m supposed to do
I don’t even need a name anymore
When no one calls it out, it kinda vanishes away

Jason’s career and life is quickly disappearing as the fame he once enjoyed as a country singer has vanished.

[Outro]
No one gives a damn about the things I give a damn about
The liberties that we can’t do without
Seem to disappear like ghosts in the air
When we don’t even care, it truly vanishes away

Society has grown cold, not caring about issues Jason is passionate about. As freedom and liberties slowly disappear, most Americans are distracted, becoming ghosts stuck in their own world. When people stop caring, life falls apart.

Final Thoughts:

There are some sad realities to Jason’s song. People have become so self-absorbed that they are unable to notice what is going on in this country and throughout the world. If you want to endure and be resilient, you have to become deeply rooted and grounded in faith, Colossians 2:6-7, like Alabama Pines.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 29

Posted on July 29, 2026 by expressyourself4him

George Michael – Freedom! ’90 (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind Freedom:

Freedom was conceived from George Michael’s deep personal reckoning with fame, identity, and creative control. After the success of Faith in 1987, Michael’s felt trapped by the expectations of having to produce another hit song. Subsequently, Freedom served as a confession and a declaration, reaching a point in his life where he could create content, perform and just be himself.

Biblical Application:

Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. 35 Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed, John 8:34-35.

Exegesis of Freedom:

I won’t let you down
I will not give you up
Gotta have some faith in the sound
It’s the one good thing that I’ve got
I won’t let you down
So please don’t give me up
Because I would really, really love to stick around
Oh, yeah

George is feeling pressure to perform. Previous success has instilled faith within George that he won’t let his agent, producer and record company down. George isn’t ready to retire, wanting to keep his singing career going.

Heaven knows I was just a young boy
Didn’t know what I wanted to be (Didn’t know what I wanted to be)
I was every little hungry schoolgirl’s pride and joy
And I guess it was enough for me (And I guess it was enough for me)

Looking back to his past to see where he came from. Being a heartthrob was good enough for George.

To win the race, a prettier face
Brand new clothes and a big fat place
On your rock and roll TV (Rock and roll TV)
But today the way I play the game is not the same, no way
Think I’m gonna get me some happy

As you get older, it’s harder to maintain your image. George has become wiser with age, content with who he is now.

I think there’s something you should know
(I think it’s time I told you so)
There’s something deep inside of me
(There’s someone else I’ve got to be)
Take back your picture in a frame
(Take back your singing in the rain)
I just hope you understand
Sometimes the clothes do not make the man

This is the confessional part of the lyrics. George reached a point in his life where he stopped carrying about his image. He is trying to explain that there is more to a person than the clothes you wear.

All we have to do now
Is take these lies and make them true somehow
All we have to see
Is that I don’t belong to you and you don’t belong to me, yeah yeah

Image isn’t what you think it is. While George was and may still be viewed as a sex symbol, he is trying to explain that I don’t belong to you and you don’t belong to me.

Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (I will not give you up)
Freedom (Gotta have some faith in the sound)
You’ve got to give what you take (It’s the one good thing that I’ve got)
Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (So please don’t give me up)
Freedom (‘Cause I would really)
You’ve got to give what you take (really love to stick around)

The opening chorus is another confession. Meanwhile, this also reads like a self-help pep talk. Freedom is the spark which will enable George to maintain his stardom.

Heaven knows we sure had some fun, boy
What a kick just a buddy and me (What a kick just a buddy and me)
We had every big-shot goodtime band on the run, boy
We were living in a fantasy (We were living in a fantasy)

George looks back at his start as the lead singer of Wham. Looking back, this was like living a dream.

We won the race, got out of the place
Went back home, got a brand new face for the boys on MTV (Boys on MTV)
But today the way I play the game has got to change, oh yeah
Now I’m gonna get myself happy

George was successful with Wham, but the time came for George to leave, starting his solo career. While the days on MTV were great, Goerge does things different now, content with his new life outside of a band,

I think there’s something you should know
(I think it’s time I stopped the show)
There’s something deep inside of me
(There’s someone I forgot to be)
Take back your picture in a frame
(Don’t think that I’ll I be back again)
I just hope you understand
Sometimes the clothes do not make the man

When everyone told George about his great looks and image, it appears that he didn’t have a friend who was real with him, demonstrating tough love. This led to an identity crisis trying to figure out the man behind his clothes.

All we have to do now
Is take these lies and make them true somehow
All we have to see
Is that I don’t belong to you and you don’t belong to me, yeah yeah

George is sorting things out, trying to figure out the truth behind the lies he was told as an artist.

Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (I will not give you up)
Freedom (Gotta have some faith in the sound)
You got to give what you take
(It’s the one good thing that I’ve got)
Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (So please don’t give me up)
Freedom (‘Cause I would really)
You got to give what you take (really love to stick around)

Freedom came as George began to figure out who he is and what’s really important in life.

Well, it looks like the road to heaven
But it feels like the road to hell
When I knew which side my bread was buttered
I took the knife as well
Posing for another picture
Everybody’s got to sell
But when you shake your ass
They notice fast
And some mistakes were build to last

George is looking for direction in life, what to do in the future. However, he still hasn’t figured things out. Poor decisions in the past, using his body as a sex symbol, has led to regret. Yet, sex sold his music for years.

(That’s what you get)
That’s what you get
(That’s what you get)
I say that’s what you get
(I say that’s what you get for changing your mind)
That’s what you get for changing your mind
(That’s what you get)
(That’s what you get) And after all this time
I just hope you understand
Sometimes the clothes do not make the man

A stanza about regret, possibly referring to his song I Want Your Sex. George is having image problems, trying to explain to his fans that he is not the man behind his former image.

All we have to do now
Is take these lies and make them true somehow
All we have to see
Is that I don’t belong to you
And you don’t belong to me, yeah yeah

George is trying to sort things out to improve his self-esteem.

Freedom (Oh)
Freedom
(My) Freedom
You’ve gotta give for what you take
Freedom (I’ll hold on to my)
Freedom
(My) Freedom
You got to give what, to give what, give what you take
Yeah!
You got to give what, give to what, to give

Freedom comes from being true to yourself and who you are.

May not be what you want from me
Just the way it’s got to be
Lose the face now
I’ve got to live

George is searching for the type of person that he has to be moving forward in life.

Final Thoughts:

I loved Wham when I was in high school. However, when George Michael began his solo career, he started to push the envelope through his dance moves and lyrics. George was like the Madonna of male artists, not going over the top in his music videos like Madonna. The lyrics of Freedom give me hope that George may be maturing and transforming his life as he grows old.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 21

Posted on July 21, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Sam Cooke – A Change Is Gonna Come (Official Lyric Video)

Inspiration Behind Change is Gonna Come:

Change is Gonna Come was a response to the racial tensions and injustices that were prevalent in the United States in 1963. Following the release of Change is Gonna Come, this song has become an anthem for the Civil Rights Movement. With the rise of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Sam was full of belief, hope and faith that change will come in the near future.

Biblical Application:

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.11 Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me, Psalm 51:10-12.

Exegesis of Change is Gonna Come:

I was born by the river
In a little tent
Oh, and just like the river, I’ve been running
Ever since

Sam didn’t have much when she was born. Yet, like a flowing river, she kept moving downstream.

It’s been a long
A long time coming, but I know
A change gon’ come
Oh yes, it will

There were many things that Sam saw or witnessed that she didn’t think was fair. Yet, deep down inside, she believed that change would happen sometime in the future.

It’s been too hard living
But I’m afraid to die
‘Cause I don’t know what’s up there
Beyond the sky

Growing up as a black woman in America has been tough. Yet, she’s not ready to die, unsure of her eternal destiny.

It’s been a long
A long time coming, but I know
A change gon’ come
Oh yes, it will

Sam thought that things would have improved by now, but she hasn’t lost hope for Civil Rights to become a reality.

I go to the movie
And I go downtown

Sam still goes into town to watch movies.

And somebody keep telling me
“Don’t hang around”

Despite comments about being unwanted around town, this didn’t stop her from living.

It’s been a long
A long time coming, but I know
A change gon’ come
Oh yes, it will

There is no doubt in Sam’s mind that Civil Right for African Americans will come soon.

Then, I go to my brother
And I say, “Brother, help me, please”
But he winds up knockin’ me
Back down on my knees, oh

However, maintaining hope wasn’t easy, physically knocked down after asking for help.

There been times that I thought
I couldn’t last for long
But now, I think I’m able
To carry on

Sam also lost hope in the darkest times of uncivil acts against her. But the rise of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was enough to help her tarry on with life.

It’s been a long
A long time coming, but I know
A change gon’ come
Oh yes, it will

The numerous trials and tribulations that Sam endured could not hold her down for long as her belief for change came.

Final Thoughts:

The melody of Change is Gonna Come reminds me of some of the old hymns that I sung in church growing up. Spending 3 years attending public school in inner city Wilmington, Delaware, I came face to face with poverty. Although Sam doesn’t mention being a woman of faith, she persevered like Queen Esther in the Old Testament. Change is Gonna Come serves as a reminder of the past and provides hope that current and future issues will be resolved.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 20

Posted on July 20, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Dixie Chicks – Wide Open Spaces (Lyrics)

Inspiration Behind Wide Open Spaces:

 Susan Gibson was studying forestry at the University of Montana when she wrote Wide Open Spaces. Frequent family trips from Amarillo, Texas to Missoula, Montana conceived the concept of Wide Open Spaces.  After jotting down lyrics in a notebook over the years, Susan’s mom sent this journal to her in college as part of a care package. Upon glancing over the words inside, Wide Open Spaces was spawn.

Biblical Application:

The Lord said, “I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering. 8 So I have come down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey—the home of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites, Exodus 3:7-8.

Exegesis of Wide Open Spaces:

Who doesn’t know what I’m talking about?
Who’s never left home? Who’s never struck out?
To find a dream and a life of their own
A place in the clouds, a foundation of stone

A song about traveling, watching the landscape as her parents’ drive. These trips led Susan to attend college in Montana. She followed her dream, searching for a solid foundation.

Many precede and many will follow
A young girl’s dreams no longer hollow
It takes the shape of a place out West
But what it holds for her, she hasn’t yet guessed

Susan is trying to make something out of her life as her dreams take shape in Montana. Still waiting for confirmation.

She needs wide open spaces
Room to make her big mistakes
She needs new faces
She knows the high stakes

This is what Susan believes she needs to be successful. New faces with high stakes to aim for.

She traveled this road as a child
Wide-eyed and grinning, she never tired
But now she won’t be coming back with the rest
If these are life’s lessons, she’ll take this test

Susan is leaving home in Texas to follow her dream in Montana. Various life lessons has led her down this path.

She needs wide open spaces
Room to make her big mistakes

Perhaps a reference to forestry, clear cutting areas so that new trees can be planted.

She needs new faces
She knows the high stakes
She knows the high stakes

Susan enjoys meeting new people. She also realizes that responsibilities that come with her dream.

And as her folks drive away, her dad yells, “Check the oil!”
Mom stares out the window and says, “I’m leavin’ my girl”
She said, “It didn’t seem like that long ago”
When she stood there and let her own folks know

A reference to dropping their girl off at college or moving away for good after graduating.

She needed wide open spaces
Room to make her big mistakes
She needs new faces
She knows the high stakes

The chorus repeats itself, explaining the environment Susan is searching for.

She knows the highest stakes
She knows the highest stakes (wide open spaces)
She knows the highest stakes
She knows the highest stakes (wide open spaces)

The stakes are high as Susan risks failure to achieve her dream in life.

Final Thoughts:

I took a winter semester off in college to travel the country, staying with 2 close friends from high school. I was able to see what life had to offer before I graduated from college. I went skiing out west and hung out in Dallas, providing an idea of where I wanted to live after college. As someone who loves to travel, I can’t get enough of wide open spaces driving along the interstate. Nature can be inspirational like it was for Susan.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 19

Posted on July 19, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Philadelphia Freedom

Inspirational Philadelphia Freedom:

 Elton John and Bernie Taupin were on the road between recording sessions in the summer of 1974. These sessions included Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy when Elton John suddenly felt compelled to write a song for Billy Jean King. This tennis legend began playing team tennis so when she asked Elton what he wanted to call this song Elton named this tune after her team the Philadelphia Freedom.

Biblical Application:

For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. 16 Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. 17 Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor, 1 Peter 2:15-17.

Exegesis of Philadelphia Freedom:

I used to be a rolling stone, you know
If a cause was right
I’d leave, to find the answer on the road

Billy Jean King was a rock, standing up for what she believed was a right cause. I’m not sure if Elton is comparing Billy to Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz or that Billy was diligent in finding the answers to her questions in life.

I used to be a heart beatin’ for someone
But the times have changed
The less I say, the more my work gets done

In her younger years, Billy fought for others. Now older and wiser, her actions speak louder than words.

‘Cause I live and breathe this Philadelphia freedom
From the day that I was born, I’ve waved the flag
Philadelphia freedom took me knee-high to a man, yeah
Gave me peace of mind my daddy never had

Playing team tennis is her new passion in life. It’s unclear what flag Elton is referring to. Billy Jean competed in the battle of the sexes, defeating Boddy Riggs on national television. This victory led to peace and sense of pride.

Oh, Philadelphia freedom
Shine on me, I love ya
Shine a light through the eyes of the ones left behind
Shine a light, shine the light
Shine the light, won’t you shine the light?
Philadelphia freedom, I love ya
Yes, I do

The chorus reflects this victory. Proving that women were capable athletes who could defeat men. This was a shining moment for Billy.

If you choose to you can live your life alone

Billy didn’t have to prove herself anymore.

Some people choose the city (some people choose the city)
Some others choose the good old family home
(Some others choose the good old family home)

People have different interests which may result in city life or staying near family.

I like living easy without family ties (’cause it’s easy)
‘Til the whip or will of freedom zapped me, right between the eyes

Billy likes being independent. However, sometimes the will of freedom can be overwhelming.

‘Cause I live and breathe this Philadelphia freedom
From the day that I was born, I’ve waved the flag
Philadelphia freedom took me knee-high to a man, mmh-mmh
Gave me peace of mind my daddy never had

The battle of the sexes match changed Billy Jean’s life for the better.

Oh, Philadelphia freedom
Shine on me, I love ya
Shine a light through the eyes of the ones left behind
Shine a light, shine the light
Shine the light, won’t you shine the light?
Philadelphia freedom, I love ya
Yes, I do

Billy let her tennis racket do the talking. Her talents shined while on the court.

Oh, Philadelphia freedom
Shine on me, I love ya
Shine a light through the eyes of the ones left behind, mmh
Shine a light, shine the light
Shine the light, won’t you shine the light?
Philadelphia freedom, I love ya
You know, I love you, yeah
You know, I love you
Yes, I do! (Philadelphia freedom)

The chorus is repeated with a few slight changes. Playing team tennis rejuvenated Billy’s tennis career.

I love you, yes I do!
(Philadelphia freedom) you know that I love you
Yes, I do! (Philadelphia) oh (freedom)
Don’t you know that I love you?
Yes, I do! (Philadelphia freedom)
Don’t you know that I love you?
Yes, I do! (Philadelphia) oh, oh (freedom)
Don’t you know that I love you?

According to Elton John, this was one of the best times in Nilly Jean’s career, playing with a new appreciation for tennis.

Final Thoughts:

The Battle of the Sexes was a popular show on ABC Wide World of Sports. However, after the 1973 match in the Houston Astrodome with over 50 million viewers, female professional athletes began to receive the respect that they were due. When I was in high school, I trained with a former Olympian Vicki Huber who weekly blew away most of the male runners on the track. When an athlete has special talents, the creme rises to the top.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 14

Posted on July 14, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Johnny Cash – Ragged Old Flag (Official Audio)

Inspiration Behind Ragged Old Flag:

The lyrics to Ragged Old Flag were conceived during the Vietnam War when political tensions reached a peak due to President Nixon’s Watergate scandal. After supporting Nixon, Johnny Cash reflected upon how this war and presidency was tearing America apart. Subsequently, Cash used Ragged Old Flag as a history lesson with the hope of reigniting faith in the country and flag that he loved. This song reads like a story about past battles and wars.

Biblical Application:

The apostles were brought in and made to appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the high priest. 28 “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,” he said. “Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man’s blood.” Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings! – Acts 5:27-29.

Exegesis of Ragged Old Flag:

I walked through a county courthouse square
On a park bench, an old man was sittin’ there.
I said, “Your old court house is kinda run down,
He said, “Naw, it’ll do for our little town”.
I said, “Your old flag pole is leaned a little bit,
And that’s a ragged old flag you got hangin’ on it”.
He said, “Have a seat”, and I sat down,
“Is this the first time you’ve been to our little town”
I said, “I think it is”
He said “I don’t like to brag, but we’re kinda proud of that ragged old flag”

While on vacation Johnny notices a local sitting on a park bench. After making an initial observation, the local explains that old isn’t necessarily run down. Johnny makes another comment about an old flag hanging from a leaning pole. This local asks Johnny to sit down, wanting to explain the history about this town and flag.

You see, we got a little hole in that flag there
When Washington took it across the Delaware.
And It got powder burned the night Francis Scott Key sat watching it
Writing “Say Can You See”
It got a bad rip in New Orleans, with Packingham & Jackson
Tugging at it’s seams.
And it almost fell at the Alamo
Beside the Texas flag,
But she waved on though.
She got cut with a sword at Chancellorsville,
And she got cut again at Shiloh Hill.
There was Robert E. Lee and Beauregard and Bragg,
And the south wind blew hard on that ragged old flag

This man turns into a historian, using past events to reveal how this ragged old flag got in this current condition. From the Revolutionary to Civil War, this flag has seen significant battles waged. When you add the windy conditions, this is the how this flag has become ragged.

On Flanders Field in World War I
She got a big hole from a Bertha Gun
She turned blood red in World War II
She hung limp, and low, a time or two
She was in Korea, Vietnam, she went where she was sent
By her Uncle Sam
She waved from our ships upon the briny foam
And now they’ve about quit wavin’ back here at home
In her own good land here She’s been abused
She’s been burned, dishonored, denied an’ refused
And the government for which she stands
Has scandalized throughout out the land
And she’s getting thread bare, and she’s wearin’ thin
But she’s in good shape, for the shape she’s in
Cause she’s been through the fire before
And I believe she can take a whole lot more

The American flag is used as a background for World War I and II. From Korea to Vietnam, American soldiers have been sent to defend and support freedom. This serves as an introduction to modern times as people have lost faith in the leaders of this country. The Ragged Old Flag is symbolic of American values which have been challenged and tested over the last 200 years when this was written. The old man believes that America still has a bright future.

So we raise her up every morning
And we take her down every night,
We don’t let her touch the ground,
And we fold her up right.
On a second thought
I do like to brag
‘Cause I’m mighty proud of that ragged old flag

This is why this old local flag is raised every morning to remind citizens of what we’ve been through to obtain freedom. Meanwhile, the locals take her down every evening and don’t let her touch the ground, folding this flag up with respect, just as she deserves. This is what has led this town to be become proud of their Ragged Old Flag.

Final Thoughts:

I was a Boy Scout until high school when sports became a bigger priority in my life. Yet, I learned to respect the American flag as a scout. At ballgames I learned to rise for the National Anthem and place my hand over my chest. Although I have gone through the motions many times when I sing the Star-Spangled Banner, certain moments I was stuck with the same appreciation as the local man in this song. Instead of airing your grievances, it’s time to start thanking God for being born and or living in the greatest country in the world.

by Jay Mankus

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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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