Tag Archives: fiction

The Message Behind the Music-October 8

Posted on October 8, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Bell Biv DeVoe – Poison (Official Music Video)

Inspiration Behind Poison:

The song Poison was written and produced by Dr. Freeze who is Elliott Straite. Straite had planned for Poison to be on his next album until members of Bell Biv DeVoe heard his demo version. This song serves as a cautionary warning for men about women whose beauty masks dangerous or manipulative intentions. Once in one of these toxic relationships, emotional and or financial harm often follow.

Biblical Application:

A foolish child is a father’s ruin, and a quarrelsome wife is like the constant dripping of a leaky roof. 14 Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the Lord, Proverbs 19:13-14.

Exegesis of Poison:

Poison

One word description of the woman that he sees on the street.

Yeah, Spider-Man and Freeze in full effect
Uh-huh
You ready, Ron?
I’m ready
You ready, Biv?
I’m ready, Slick, are you?
Oh, yeah, break it down

Possibly a reference to superhero arch enemies or their kryptonite. Rapping as if getting ready to tell a story.

Girl, I must warn you
I sense something strange in my mind
Yeah, yo
Situation is serious
Let’s cure it, ’cause we’re running out of time
Tell ’em, Rick

He has bad vibes about this potential relationship. He has bad feelings about pursuing this.

It’s, oh, so beautiful
Relationships, they seem from the start
Yeah
It’s all so deadly
When love is not together from the heart

Check it out

Rick is speaking from experience. Behind the scenes, impure motives become like poison to a soul.

It’s drivin’ me out of my mind
That’s why it’s hard for me to find
Can’t get it out of my head
Miss her, kiss her, love her
Wrong move, you’re dead

He knows this new relationship is wrong, but he can’t her off his mind with looks that could kill.

That girl is poison
Never trust a big butt and a smile
That girl is poison
Poison

Stay away from her as her smile might lure you into temptation.

If I were you, I’d take precaution
Before I start to meet a fly, girl, you know?
‘Cause in some portions
You’ll think she’s the best thing in the world
She’s so fly
She’ll drive you right out of your mind
Steal your heart when you’re blind
Beware, she’s schemin’
She’ll make you think you’re dreamin’
You’ll fall in love, and you’ll be screaming, “Demon!”

Slow down before you enter this relationship. Get to know her on a personal level, not a sexual one. Take your time to see if this is meant to be before diving straight into a serious relationship.

Poison, deadly, movin’ in slow
Lookin’ for a mellow fellow like DeVoe
Gettin’ paid, laid, so better lay low
Schemin’ on house, money, and the whole show
The low pro ho, she’ll be cut like an Afro
So, what you’re sayin’? Huh? She’s a winner to you?
But I know she’s a loser
How do you know?
Me and the crew used to do her

This is a warning to a good friend to watch out. She’s not what she seems as the group knows from personal experience.

Poison
Poison
Poison
Poison
Poison
Poison, poison, poison, poison
Poison, poison, poison, poison
Poison, poison, poison, poison, poison
Poison, poison, poison, poison
Poison

She is poison to your soul.

I was at the bar, shake, breakin’ and takin’ ’em all
And that night, I played the wall
Checkin’ out the fellas, the highs and lows
Keepin’ one eye open, still clockin’ the hos
There was one particular girl that stood out from the rest
Poison as can be, the high-power chest
Michael Bivins here, and I’m runnin’ the show
Bell Biv DeVoe
Now you know
Yo, Slick, blow

At a bar, men are drawn to attractive women. However, looks can be deceiving.

It’s drivin’ me out of my mind
That’s why it’s hard for me to find
Can’t get it out of my head
Miss her, kiss her, love her
Wrong move, you’re dead

Don’t get involved or else it will be too late.

That girl is poison (whoo)
Poison (whoo)
Poison
Never trust a big butt and a smile
Poison
Poison
Poison

Avoid sexual temptation or you’ll get in too deep to turn back.

She’s dangerous
Poison (oh, yeah)
Poison (oh, yeah)
Poison
Poison
Poison

She has a bad reputation.

Yo, fellas, that was another dope
You know what I’m sayin’, Mike?
Yeah, BBD in full effect
Yo, wassup to Ralph T. and Johnny G
Yeah, and I can’t forget about my boy, B. Brown
And the whole NE crew
Poison
Uh-huh

This list of men never learned or listened until it was too late.

Final Thoughts:

There are always girls in high school who have a certain reputation that may be true or not. The curious might try to find out for themselves. While the guarded never want to find out. I was shy for most of high school, so I didn’t have any girlfriends until late in my sophomore year. The older I got, the more I preferred to go out on a date or two before entering a serious relationship. Unfortunately, the timing of a relationship also matters as people you may like were already dating a classmate. This is the complexity of relationships. I never dated someone who was poison but in this era of infidelity, I could see dangers of being with someone who was always thinking about the next person they wanted to be with. This in my mind is a poisonness relationship.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 7

Posted on October 7, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Electric Light Orchestra – Evil Woman (With Lyrics HD)

Inspiration Behind Evil Woman:

The lyrics of Evil woman stems from the turbulent relationships that were prevalent during the 1970s. The Electric Light Orchestra wasn’t referring to a specific woman. Rather as society rapidly changed, interpersonal relationships were challenged by the rise of the feminist movement and the sexual revolution. This empowerment of women inspired the lyrics of this classic song.

Biblical Application:

Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife, Proverbs 25:24.

Exegesis of Evil Woman:

You made a fool of me
But them broken dreams have got to end

Either one of many of the band members had unpleasant interactions with woman. This woman either dumped him or broke off dreams of marriage.

Hey, woman, you got the blues
‘Cause you ain’t got no one else to use
There’s an open road that leads nowhere
So just make some miles between here and there

Reaching out to a woman who is depressed. No longer with a man. Using driving as a way to calm down and relax, like drying out in the country to blow off some steam.

There’s a hole in my head where the rain comes in
You took my body and played to win
Ha, ha, woman, it’s a cryin’ shame
But you ain’t got nobody else to blame

His mind hasn’t recovered from his previous relationship like a constant drip. This man was either used for his body or status as a rock star. A sarcasm jab at his ex.

Evil woman
Evil woman
Evil woman
Evil woman

Referring to her as the evil woman.

Rolled in from another town
Hit some gold, too hot to settle down
But a fool and his money soon go separate ways
You found a fool lyin’ in a daze

Meeting someone from out of town. Living off of a recent divorce or her parents’ wealth. When this man spent all of his money to impress this new woman, she left him. He was confused by the end of this relationship.

Ha, ha, woman, what you gonna do?
You destroyed all the virtues that the Lord gave you
It’s so good that you’re feelin’ pain
But you better get your face on board the very next train
(Hey, hey-hey, hey!)

Calling out for this woman’s next move. You’ve ruined your reputation and the blessings God gave you. He is happy to see her hurt. Hoping she leaves town immediately.

Evil woman
Evil woman
Evil woman (you’re an evil woman)
Evil woman

She is dark and consumed with evil.

(Hey, hey-hey, hey!)

(Hey, hey-hey, hey!)
(Hey, hey-hey)

Transition that serves as an exclamation point.

Evil woman
Evil woman
Evil woman (you’re an evil woman)
Evil woman

Yes, this woman is evil.

Evil woman, how you done me wrong
Now you’re tryna wail a different song
Ha, ha, funny, how you broke me up
You made the wine, now you drink a cup

Pointing out the damage she has done. Putting a spin on this, complaining and crying out. This man was dumped and now she is rubbing slat into his wombs.

Came running every time you cried
Thought I saw love smilin’ in your eyes
Ha, ha, very nice to know
That you ain’t got no place left to go (oh, oh-oh-oh)

The man got played as she cried to get attention. She would smile from time to time, but mow has no place left to go.

Evil woman
Evil woman
Evil woman (you’re an evil woman)
Evil woman

This is why she was so cruel. She reaped what she sowed.

Evil woman
Evil woman (you’re an evil woman)
Evil woman (such an evil woman)
Evil woman (you’re an evil woman)
Evil woman

Focusing on evil traits.

Final Thoughts:

Since ELO was writing about a specific cultural trend that was making women of this era cruel, they just couldn’t believe the depths of their devious ways. The older I become, the less I enjoy hanging around negative people. When an individual becomes too toxic, I try to stay as far away from this person as possible. While some women may simply be misunderstood, the longer you hang around a pessimistic person, the more you will become like them. Perhaps, this is why God wants human beings to flee from all evil.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 6

Posted on October 6, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Beyoncé – Haunted (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind Haunted:

Haunted spawned from Beyoncé’s own personal and professional experiences in the music industry. Following a frustrating record label meeting, Beyoncé and her producer Boots’ had a collaborative idea that developed into a two‑part experimental track. Ghost” and “Haunted” was designed to contrast the stream‑of‑consciousness rap with a dream. Haunted was finalized thanks to Aphex Twin’s work, featuring a minimalistic arrangement of keyboards, bass, and percussion.

Biblical Application:

Samuel said to Saul, “Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?” “I am in great distress,” Saul said. “The Philistines are fighting against me, and God has departed from me. He no longer answers me, either by prophets or by dreams. So I have called on you to tell me what to do.” 16 Samuel said, “Why do you consult me, now that the Lord has departed from you and become your enemy? 17 The Lord has done what he predicted through me. The Lord has torn the kingdom out of your hands and given it to one of your neighbors—to David, 1 Samuel 28:15-17.

Exegesis of Haunted:

[Verse: Beyoncé]
And I’ve been driftin’ off on knowledge
Catcalls on catwalks, man, these women gettin’ solemn
I could sing a psalm for a Solomon or Salamander
We took a flight at midnight and now my mind can’t help but wonder, “How come?”
Spoon-fed pluralized eyes to find the beaches in the forest
When I’m lookin’ off the edge, I preach my gut, it can’t help but ignore it
I’m climbin’ up the walls ’cause all the shit I hear is borin’
All the shit I do is borin’, all these record labels borin’
I don’t trust these record labels, I’m torn
All these people on the planet workin’ nine-to-five just to stay alive
The nine-to-five just to stay alive, the nine-to-five just to stay alive
The nine-to-five just to stay alive, the nine-to-five just to stay alive
The nine-to-five just to stay alive, the nine-to-five just to stay alive
All the people on the planet workin’ nine-to-five just to stay alive, how come?

Beyonce wasn’t thinking about hauntings. Perhaps drifting off, is getting sleepy as she begins to see a series of strange things. Beyonce took a red eye flight as her eyes and mind wonder. Looking off to the edge of the window, she’s listening to the conversation on this plane which is a bore. This is when Beyonce has a flashback to her disappointing record label meeting. People are just working to stay alive instead of being passionate about their job.

[Chorus: Beyoncé]
What goes up, ghost around
Ghost around
What goes up, ghost around
Ghost around

Perhaps a reference to unfulfilled workers being like zombies, like an anxious ghost moving from place to place.

[Bridge: Beyoncé]
Around
Around
Around
Around (Will it be forever?)
Around (What are you gonna do?)
Around (What are you gonna do?)
Around

What happens to the spirits of individuals after this pass.

[Outro: Beyoncé]
Soul not for sale
Probably won’t make no money off this, oh, well
Reap what you sow
Perfection is so, mmm

Selling your soul for success. Another thought realizes that this project won’t make any money. Instead, focus on reaping what you sow and perfection.

[Verse 1: Beyoncé]
It’s what you do, it’s what you see
I know if I’m hauntin’ you, you must be hauntin’ me
It’s where we go, it’s where we’ll be
I know if I’m onto you, I’m onto you
Onto you, you must be onto me
My haunted lungs, ghost in the sheets
I know if I’m onto you, you must be hauntin’ me
My wicked tongue, where will it be?
I know if I’m onto you, I’m onto you
Onto you, I’m onto you
Onto you, you must be onto me

Perhaps a reference to her producer. They both want success but this pressure to succeed has turned into a haunting. There is tension between Beyonce and this person. This situation has created a divide due to a lack of trust.

[Bridge: Beyoncé]
You want me?
I walk down the hallway
You like it?
The bedroom’s my runway
Slap me
I’m pinned to the doorway
Kiss, bite, foreplay

A time to make up. Images and requests to get back together.

[Verse 2: Beyoncé]
My haunted lungs, ghost in the sheets
I know if I’m hauntin’ you, you must be hauntin’ me
My wicked tongue, where will it be?
I know if I’m onto you, you must be onto me
It’s what we see
I know if I’m hauntin’ you, you must be hauntin’ me
It’s where we go, it’s where we’ll be
I know if I’m onto you, I’m onto you
Onto you, I’m onto you
Onto you, you must be onto me
You must be onto me
You must be onto me
You must be onto me

Most likely an ex. Haunting likely refers to regretting a past decision. Both begin to question the motives of each other. Seeing through their act.

[Outro: Beyoncé & BOOTS]
(Onto you, I’m onto you)
Me (Onto you, I’m onto you)
Me, me (Onto you, I’m onto you)
Me (Onto you, I’m onto you)
Me

Referring to their record label meeting, not letting go their disappointment of the results or lack their of.

Final Thoughts:

Beyonce is discreet about what exactly went down during their meeting. All I can do is speculate. When a singer on the level of Beyonce, she either didn’t get the respect, cooperation or investment what she was expecting. Subsequently, the use of haunting appears to be like you are going to regret this decision. Life is full of rejection for most human beings. How you respond to this will ultimately dictate the direction you will proceed in the future. Developing perseverance and resolve will lead to success in the future.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 4

Posted on October 4, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Ray Parker Jr. – Ghostbusters (Official HD Video)

Inspiration Behind Ghostbusters:

The inspiration behind the film series Ghostbusters was conceived out of Dan Aykroyd’s fascination with the paranormal. The Ghostbusters song by Ray Parker Jr. conjures up a sense of adventure, humor, and a call to action.  The Ghostbusters song was written and performed by Ray. The popularity of this film and song became a sensation, enabling Parker’s hit to reach number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Biblical Application:

At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split 52 and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. 53 They came out of the tombs after Jesus’ resurrection and[e] went into the holy city and appeared to many people, Matthew 27:51-53.

Exegesis of Ghostbusters:

If there’s somethin’ strange in your neighborhood
Who ya gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

This film commercialized ghosthunters, aka paranormal investigators. Subsequently, when you see something strange, call the Ghostbusters.

If it’s somethin’ weird an’ it don’t look good
Who ya gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

This team investigates this matter for you.

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

Trying to convince themselves that they are not afraid of ghosts.

If you’re seein’ things runnin’ through your head
Who can you call?
(Ghostbusters!)

The Ghostbusters handle entities and spirts as well.

An invisible man sleepin’ in your bed
Oh who ya gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

This song is like an infomercial for Ghostbusters.

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

Who ya gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

When you are afraid, call the Ghostbusters.

If you’re all alone, pick up the phone
And call
(Ghostbusters!)

Scenarios of when to call.

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost
I hear it likes the girls
I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah

Trying to be tough until screaming like a girl upon seeing a ghost.

Who you gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

Self-promotion.

Mmm, if you’ve had a dose
Of a freaky ghost baby
You better call
(Ghostbusters!)

Another possible encounter.

Let me tell you somethin’
Bustin’ makes me feel good

Capturing ghosts is an adrenaline rush.

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

Don’t get caught alone, oh no
(Ghostbusters!)

When self-talk doesn’t work, call.

When he comes through your door
Unless you just a want some more
I think you better call
(Ghostbusters!)

Another scenario to watch out for.

Oh, who you gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)
Who you gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

Another call to action.

Ah, think you better call
(Ghostbusters!)
Who you gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

A subliminal message in your mind.

I can’t hear you
Who you gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)
Louder
(Ghostbusters!)

Last second plea to call.

Who you gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)
Who can you call?
(Ghostbusters!)

Final promo.

Final Thoughts:

While there isn’t much substance to the lyrics, it’s made to be an advertisement for concerned residents dealing with the paranormal. I spent a quarter of a century living close to one of the most haunted cities in America. A combination of Civil and Revolutionary War spirits dwell in Elkton, Maryland homes. Meanwhile, there are more than 22 major references of ghosts and spirits in the Bible. Although Ghostbusters did commercialize paranormal investigators, ghost sightings continue today in the United States and throughout the world.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 30

Posted on September 30, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Green Day – Wake Me Up When September Ends (Official Audio)

Inspiration Behind Wake Me Up When September Ends:

Billie Joe Armstrong wrote this song as a personal tribute to his late father, who died of esophageal cancer on September 10, 1982. When you feel helpless, unable to do anything to prevent the inevitable, life can be cruel. Armstrong was just 10 at the time of his dad’s death, leaving lasting memories of the pain he endures each September. The title comes from a conversation that Billie Joe had with his mother following the funeral. Armstrong locked himself in his room and cried, telling his mother, “Wake Me Up When September Ends.”

Biblical Application:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted, Matthew 5:3-4.

Exegesis of Wake Me Up When September Ends:

Summer has come and passed
The innocent can never last
Wake me up when September ends

A reference to his father’s final simmer, fighting a losing battle with cancer. When Billie Joe’s father finally died, he just couldn’t accept or believed that this happened to him.

Like my father’s come to pass
Seven years has gone so fast
Wake me up when September ends

Referring to the anniversary of his father’s death.

Here comes the rain again
Falling from the stars
Drenched in my pain again
Becoming who we are

The rain is likely a metaphor for crying his eyes out following his dad’s funeral. A heavy rain drenched Billie Joe, yet the pain of his father’s death didn’t wash away.

As my memory rests
But never forgets what I lost
Wake me up when September ends

September brought a heaviness upon Billie Joe’s heart.

Summer has come and passed
The innocent can never last
Wake me up when September ends

This death forced Billie Joe to grow up faster than he wanted. Living throguh another September brought a spirit of gloom over Bille Joe’s life.

Ring out the bells again

Perhaps church bells from the funeral.

Like we did when spring began
Wake me up when September ends

Billie Joe took his father’s death hard.

Here comes the rain again
Falling from the stars
Drenched in my pain again
Becoming who we are

Something that never seemed to go away.

As my memory rests
But never forgets what I lost
Wake me up when September ends

Billie misses his father.

Summer has come and passed
The innocent can never last
Wake me up when September ends

Calendars and certain dates leave a haunting memory of the past.

Like my father’s come to pass
Twenty years has gone so fast
Wake me up when September ends

Billie Joe completed this song when he was 30 or added to this after the 20th anniversary of his father’s death.

Wake me up when September ends
Wake me up when September ends

Billie Joe wishes he could skip September every year.

Final Thoughts:

One of my friends from the cross-country had a rough sophomore year. Whenever I saw Carl in the hallway, he would hit me in the shoulder as if we were playing the Punch Buggy Game. This is how Carl reacted to a dying mother. After her death, Carl and I became close friends. The more time we spent together, Carl began to treat my mother lije an adopted mother. This is how Carl slowly recovered from the pain of losing his mom.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 28

Posted on September 28, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Prince and the Revolution – When Doves Cry (Official Music Video)

Inspiration Behind When Doves Cry:

When Doves Cry was inspired by Prince’s relationship with singer Susan Moonsie. The lyrics explores the emotional fallout when love ends. Prince uses doves as a metaphor for love and peace, so that doves crying represents the emotional turmoil and sorrow that arises when a relationship falls apart. The lyrics also addresses Prince’s fear of repeating parental patterns, eager to be a supportive father.

Biblical Application:

The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their cry;16 but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to blot out their name from the earth, Psalm 34:15-16.

Exegesis of When Doves Cry:

[Intro]
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah

Initial preparations to sing.

[Verse 1]
Dig, if you will, the picture
Of you and I engaged in a kiss
The sweat of your body covers me
Can you, my darling, can you picture this?

Having a flashback of an intimate moment with Susan. Asking her if she remembers what they once had.

[Verse 2]
Dream, if you can, a courtyard
An ocean of violets in bloom
Animals strike curious poses
They feel the heat, the heat between me and you

Setting the scene of a romantic moment where their passion for each other erupts.

[Chorus]
How can you just leave me standing
Alone in a world that’s so cold? (So cold)
Maybe I’m just too demanding
Maybe I’m just like my father, too bold
Maybe you’re just like my mother
She’s never satisfied (She’s never satisfied)
Why do we scream at each other?
This is what it sounds like
When doves cry

Prince can’t believe this special relationship has ended. Prince begins to wonder what went wrong. Blaming how he was raised and how he is now becoming like his father. Prince continues to look for a reason as Susan might share his mom’s perspective. When Susan and Prince yell at each other, it’s like doves crying.


[Verse 3]
Touch, if you will, my stomach (Hmm)
Feel how it trembles inside (Mhm)
You’ve got the butterflies all tied up
Don’t make me chase you, even doves have pride

Prince doesn’t want this relationship to end. While begging seems desperate, Prince’s pride has taken a hit.

[Chorus]
How can you just leave me standing
Alone in a world so cold? (World so cold)
Maybe I’m just too demanding
Maybe I’m just like my father, too bold
Maybe you’re just like my mother
She’s never satisfied (She’s never satisfied)
Why do we scream at each other?
This is what it sounds like
When doves cry

The chorus is repeated as Prince can’t understand why Susan left him. Prince uses rhetorical questions to figure out why this relationship fell apart. This disappointment conceived the image of doves crying.

[Bridge]
Yeah, yeah
Doo-doo, woah-oh
(Yeah, yeah)

Transition.

[Chorus]
How can you just leave me standing
Alone in a world that’s so cold? (World that’s so cold)
Maybe I’m just too demanding (Maybe, maybe)
Maybe I’m just like my father, too bold (My father, you know he’s too bold)
Maybe you’re just like my mother (Maybe you’re just like my mother)
She’s never satisfied (Never, never satisfied, why scream?)
Why do we scream at each other? (Why?)
This is what it sounds like
When doves cry

Prince is still trying to grasp what went wrong.

[Break]
When doves cry (When doves cry, when doves cry)
When doves cry (When doves cry, they cry)
Oh, no, oh, oh
Oh, no, oh, yeah
Oh, oh, oh, yeah
Oh, oh, oh, yeah
Oh, oh, oh, yeah
When doves cry
When doves cry (Hoo)
When doves cry (Hoo)
Baby, baby, baby, yeah

A way for Prince to express his pain and sadness.

[Outro]
When doves cry (When doves cry, when doves cry)
Don’t cry
Darling, don’t cry
Don’t cry, don’t cry, don’t, don’t cry

Prince doesn’t want Susan to cry, hoping to end this relationship on a positive note.

Final Thoughts:

I became a big Prince fan in college. While I noticed that his music videos were becoming more sexually graphic like Madonna, this is the nature and trend of the music industry. Whenever relationships end abruptly or unexpectedly, this is never easy. However, writing songs like When Doves Cry tend to serve as a form of healing. While Prince died way sooner than expected, his legacy continues today thanks to his archive of music.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 24

Posted on September 24, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Owl City & Carly Rae Jepsen – Good Time

Inspiration Behind Good Time:

Back in 2012, Owl City wanted to create a song celebrating a pure, unapologetic joy and spontaneity. The lyrics promote living in the moment and embracing carefree happiness. Between life, work and trying to avoid going into debt, Good Time serves as a break from stress. While you will have to go back to reality, take breaks from time to time to recharge your heart, soul and mind.

Biblical Application:

He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’[c]; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself,’ Luke 10:27.

Exegesis of Good Time:

[Intro: Carly Rae Jepsen, Adam Young]
Mm-mm-mm
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh
It’s always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh
It’s always a good time

Setting a positive tone for this moment.

[Verse 1: Adam Young, Carly Rae Jepsen]
Woke up on the right side of the bed
What’s up with this Prince song inside my head?
Hands up if you’re down to get down tonight (Mm-mm-mm)
‘Cause it’s always a good time
Slept in all my clothes like I didn’t care
Hopped into a cab, take me anywhere
I’m in if you’re down to get down tonight
‘Cause it’s always a good time

Not feeling right after waking up. Perhaps referring to partying like it’s 1999. Despite the current mood, there is a resolve to go out dancing. Expecting to have a good time. Fell asleep fully dressed. Living spontaneously, going out without a set plan or schedule.

[Pre-Chorus: Carly Rae Jepsen, Adam Young, Both]
Good morning and goodnight
I wake up at twilight
It’s gonna be alright
We don’t even have to try, it’s always a good time (Woo)

Staying out late and sleeping in. Preparing for another special night on the town.

[Chorus: Adam Young & Carly Rae Jepsen]
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, it’s always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh
We don’t even have to try, it’s always a good time

The chorus starts as if on a dance floor. Speaking a good time into existence.

[Post-Chorus: Adam Young, Carly Rae Jepsen]
It’s always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh

This mindset became reality.

[Verse 2: Carly Rae Jepsen]
Freaked out, dropped my phone in the pool again
Checked out of my room, hit the ATM
Let’s hang out if you’re down to get down tonight
‘Cause it’s always a good time

An accident, likely due to alcohol. Living without a concern in this world. Living for the next party, night.

[Pre-Chorus: Adam Young, Carly Rae Jepsen, Both]
Good morning and goodnight
I wake up at twilight
It’s gonna be alright
We don’t even have to try, it’s always a good time (Woo)

This is the pattern for someone living for the nightlife.

[Chorus: Adam Young & Carly Rae Jepsen]
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, it’s always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh
We don’t even have to try, it’s always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, it’s always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh
We don’t even have to try, it’s always a good time

The Woah provides an image of someone having fun on the dancefloor. Not allowing their mind to become negative.

[Bridge: Adam Young, Carly Rae Jepsen, Minneapolis Youth Chorus]
Doesn’t matter when, it’s always a good time then
Doesn’t matter where, it’s always a good time there
Doesn’t matter when, it’s always a good time then
(It’s always a good time)

Whatever the location or night, they have the resolve to have fun.

[Chorus: Adam Young, Carly Rae Jepsen & Minneapolis Youth Chorus, Carly Rae Jepsen]
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, it’s always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh
We don’t even have to try, it’s always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh (Doesn’t matter where)
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, it’s always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh (Doesn’t matter where)
We don’t even have to try, it’s always a good time

This mindset becomes a reality.

[Outro: Minneapolis Youth Chorus]
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, it’s always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh

Keeping up the energy on the dance floor.

Final Thoughts:

I lived for dancing in high school and college. While there wasn’t a great place to go dancing on campus, I often went to a nightclub in Pennsylvania. Beside the main dance floor, there were 3 additional levels to dance. This club which is no longer open was where I lived to dance. Now that I am too old to stay up late, I live for Karaoke as long as I can sing a few songs before 10.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 22

Posted on September 22, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Modern English – I Melt With You (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind I Melt with You:

Robbie Grey,wrote I Melt with You by blending personal love with a moment of creative inspiration tinged with apocalyptic imagery.. This song was a romantic tribute to Robbie’s wife Carole. While I Melt with You has been part of movie soundtracks and montage scenes, Robbie wanted to highlight the beauty and transcendence of falling in love.

Biblical Application:

Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other.11 Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven, Psalm 85:10-11.

Exegesis of I Melt with You:

Moving forward using all my breath
Making love to you was never second best
I saw the world crashing all around your face
Never really knowing it was always mesh and lace

Robbie reached a point in his wife where Carole was his top priority. This marriage was much more than just sex. Robbie’s love for Carole has not stopped.

I’ll stop the world and melt with you
You’ve seen the difference and it’s getting better all the time
There’s nothing you and I won’t do
I’ll stop the world and melt with you

Robbie and Carole have a special relationship that he wouldn’t trade with anyone.

(You should know better) Dream of better lives the kind which never hate
(You should see why) Dropped in the state of imaginary grace
(You should know better) I made a pilgrimage to save this human race
(You should see why) Never comprehending the race was long, long lost

Perhaps a reference to the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence. Robbie either made an attempt to help other marriages or the people he tried to help were too far gone and wouldn’t listen.


(I’ll stop the world)

Robbie will always make time for his wife.

The future’s open wide

Robbie is open to plans and vision for the future.

I’ll stop the world and melt with you (I’ll stop the world)
You’ve seen the difference and it’s getting better all the time (Let’s stop the world)
There’s nothing you and I won’t do (Let’s stop the world)
I’ll stop the world and melt with you

Robbie loved being with his wife Carole. Her presence has made a huge difference in his life. Robbie learned to stop what he was doing so that they could spend time together.

(Let’s stop the world) I’ll stop the world and melt with you
(Let’s stop the world) I’ve seen some changes but it’s getting better all the time
(Let’s stop the world) There’s nothing you and I won’t do
(Let’s stop the world) I’ll stop the world and melt with you

Robbie learned to focus on his family when he wasn’t on tour.

The future’s open wide

Robbie is open to his future plans, essentially saying my schedule is wide open.

I’ll stop the world and melt with you (Let’s stop the world)
You’ve seen the difference and it’s getting better all the time (Let’s stop the world)
There’s nothing you and I won’t do (Let’s stop the world)
I’ll stop the world and melt with you (Let’s stop the world)
I’ll stop the world and melt with you (Let’s stop the world)
I’ll stop the world and melt with you (Let’s stop the world)
I’ll stop the world and melt with you (Let’s stop the world)

The more time Robbie spends with his wife, the better he feels. When Modern English, his band starts to distract his time with concerts, recording sessions and tours, Robbie has learned to stop everything to be with Carole.

Final Thoughts:

When I was a new father, it took me time to realize that I needed to make my family a priority. After teaching and coaching high school students, I started coaching little league baseball for my children. After I stopped teaching, I continued to coach my youngest son, Daniel. This shift in priorities helped me become aware of what my children were dealing with as well as enabled me to spend more time with my wife who kept the score book for our team. If only all fathers could be more like Robbie, future families would be much healthier and prosperous.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 21

Posted on September 21, 2026 by expressyourself4him

With You, I Sink

Inspiration Behind With You I Sink:

With You I Sink was spawn from emotional desperation and complexity of letting go in a relationship.  The lyrics address the internal conflict of love and loss. Although it’s unclear which band member this is about, someone pleading to stay, yet acknowledging that sometimes moving on is necessary. This is the internal struggle of an individual hoping to keep their special relationship alive.

Biblical Application:

In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive,’ ” Acts 20:35.

Exegesis of With You I sink:

You listen in to what we have to say
But turn and walk away
Are you listening now?

This man is trying to save this relationship, but it appears this woman has already made up her mind.


You know it won’t take much to change my mind
So I can turn this car around
Just the tone of your voice could make me hit the brakes
And look out for an exit
So I can turn this heart around

After this failed attempt, this man is in his car, but it won’t take much to turn his car around if there is a change in heart. He’s thinking about her tone, waiting for an excuse to salvage this relationship.


When you look this way, and I can say
I’ve been there, until recently:
In you, it’s another lesson learned in letting go

This is a hard life lesson to handle, leaving their future in God’s hands.


And I’m too scared to let you, to let you know
Could it be I’m scared to let you go?

This man can’t imagine his life without her. Afraid to let her go.


You know it won’t take much to change my mind
So I can turn this car around
Just the tone of your voice could make me hit the brakes
And look out for an exit
So I can turn this heart around

This man is ready to do whatever possible to save their relationship.


When you look this way, and I can say
I’ve been there, until recently:

He has had his doubts, but he is eager to restore love.


In you, it’s another lesson learned in letting go
And I’m too scared to let you, to let you know
When you call me by my name
It feels like sinking sand
In you, it’s another lesson learned in letting go
And I’m too scared to let you, to let you go

This man feels like this relationship is slipping away, but there is nothing else that he can do except let go.

Final Thoughts:

When I face desire situations like the lyrics of With You I sink, I pray. Sometimes I receive answers in less than 24 hours. Meanwhile, most of the time I have to wait, days, weeks and even months before things come into focus. Unfortunately, many songs written are conceived from broken or severed relationships. Like the lyrics reflect, these are difficult life lessons to accept. Yet, if it was meant to be, love will be restored in God’s timing.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 18

Posted on September 18, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Play The Game Tonight

Inspiration Behind Play the Game Tonight:

During a transition into a more radio-friendly sound, Kansas was led by new lead vocalist John Elefante. Play the Game Tonight led the way for this new era for Kansas after Kerry Livgren’s departure to pursue a solo career. The initial song was Stay With Me Tonight, written by Danny Flower and Rob Frazier. However, this song was reworked and renamed by Kerry Livgren and Phil Ehart before going into production.

Biblical Application:

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 Play the Game Tonight:

You think that something’s happening
And it’s bigger than your life
But it’s only what you’re hearing
Will you still remember
When the morning light has come?
Will the songs be playing over and over
‘Til you do it all over again?

Perhaps reading too much into a situation. Overreacting to gossip or one side of a story. After this nighttime drama ends, will you remember what really happened. Or will the songs of last night be playing all over in your head.

Play (play), play the game tonight
Can you tell me if it’s wrong or right?
Is it worth the time? Is it worth the price?
Do you see yourself in a white spotlight?
Then play the game tonight

Likely referring to a relationship and the games people play. Questioning the morality of this or if it’s worth it? What are the consequences of playing this game? Spotlight could be referencing being on stage or the center of attention.

And when the curtains open
To the roaring of the crowd
You will feel it all around you
Then it finally happens
And it’s all come true for you
And the songs are playing over and over
‘Til you do it all over again

Going through the motions of performing. Where is you passion or are you simply giving a half-hearted effort?

Play (play), play the game tonight
Can you tell me if it’s wrong or right?
Is it worth the time? Is it worth the price?
Do you see yourself in the white spotlight?
Then play the game tonight

Putting on a good show. Perhaps a conflict of interest as not everyone is putting their heart and soul into a show. Going through the motions and faking it is taking the easy way out.

Play (play), play the game tonight
Can you tell me if it’s wrong or right?
Is it worth the time? Is it worth the price?
Do you see yourself in the white light?

Ending with 3 consecutive choruses. Perhaps Kerry led Kansas differently so following John’s lead took time.

Play (play), play the game tonight
Can you tell me if it’s wrong or right?
Is it worth the time? Is it worth the price?
Do you see yourself in the white spotlight?

If the chorus isn’t about the concert, it could be the bands’ interaction with fans afterward.

Play the game tonight
Play the game tonight
Play the game tonight

Put on a good show to please your fans.

Final Thoughts:

I became a big Kansas fan in college. Once Kerry Livgren left the band, I followed both singers, enjoying their music and song writing. Since Kerry Livgren has a PhD is music, he was on the cutting edge, incorporating various types of instruments and sounds. This is what made Kansas great. Play the Game Tonight is probably the best song under John Elefante’s leadership. This song remains relevant with a modern beat and sound.

by Jay Mankus

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