Tag Archives: life

The Message Behind the Music-October 9

Posted on October 9, 2026 by expressyourself4him

The Rolling Stones – Sympathy For The Devil (Official Lyric Video)

Inspiration Behind Sympathy for the Devil:

Mikhail Bulgakov’s novel The Master and Margarita is the primary influence behind Sympathy for the Devil. During a trip to Brazil, Mick Jagger was also swayed by French poet Charles Baudelaire and Marianne Faithfull to complete this Rolling Stones hit. Meanwhile, Bob Dylan’s song writing style helped solidify the lyrics with this classic sound.

Biblical Application:

But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. 19 You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder, James 2:18-19.

Exegesis of Sympathy for the Devil:

Yeow, yeow
Yeow

Yeow is a term used to express pain or shock. Yeow is repeated 3 times to magnify this pain and shock.

Please allow me to introduce myself
I’m a man of wealth and taste
I’ve been around for a long, long year
Stole many a man’s soul and faith

Jagger appears to be referring to the Devil. Providing a brief summary of his past.

I was ’round when Jesus Christ
Had his moment of doubt and pain
Made damn sure that Pilate
Washed his hands and sealed his fate

Present at the turn of the first century. Unsure if his plan would be carried out. Influencing the minds of the people who insisted that Jesus be crucified.

Pleased to meet you
Hope you guess my name
But what’s puzzlin’ you
Is the nature of my game

The Bible refers to the Devil as an entity who travels throughout the world, waiting to inflict pain, 1 Peter 5:8. Playing the game “who am I?” People are trying to figure out the nature of the Devil’s motives.

Stuck around St. Petersburg
When I saw it was a time for a change
Killed the Tsar and his ministers
Anastasia screamed in vain

Quick history lesson of how Communism came to power in the USSR.

I rode a tank, held a general’s rank
When the blitzkrieg raged
And the bodies stank

The Devil influenced the minds of high-ranking officials to carry out his evil plans on earth.

Pleased to meet you
Hope you guess my name, oh yeah
Ah, what’s puzzling you
Is the nature of my game, ah yeah

The compassionate and concerned citizens want to know why the Devil is doing this.

I watched with glee (whoo-hoo)
While your kings and queens (whoo-hoo)
Fought for ten decades (whoo-hoo)
For the gods they made (whoo-hoo)

How the Devil encourages wars and worship of foreign gods.

I shouted out (whoo-hoo)
“Who killed the Kennedy’s?” (whoo-hoo)
When after all (whoo-hoo)
It was you and me (whoo-hoo)

The Devil planted seeds of evil within the shooters like planting disobedience in the mind of Eve.

Let me please introduce myself (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
I’m a man of wealth and taste (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
And I laid traps for troubadours (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
Who get killed before they reach Bombay (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)

The Devil begins to boast of his many victories of evil in his mind.

Pleased to meet you (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
Hope you guess my name, oh yeah (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
But what’s puzzlin’ you (whoo-hoo)
Is the nature of my game, ah yeah (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
Get down, damn it

Jesus refers to the Devil as the father of all lies, John 8:44.

(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)

Celebrating his deception.

(Whoo-woo, whoo-woo)
(Whoo-woo, whoo-woo)
(Whoo-woo, whoo-woo)
(Whoo-woo, whoo-woo)
(Whoo-woo)

Human beings end up being unknowing vessels of the Devil, Ephesians 6:12.

Pleased to meet you (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
Hope you guess my name, oh yeah (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
But what’s confusing you (whoo-hoo)
Is just the nature of my game, mm yeah (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)

Human beings end up fighting themselves instead of the root cause of evil.

Just as every cop is a criminal (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
And all the sinners saints (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
As heads is tails, just call me Lucifer (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
‘Cause I’m in need of some restraint (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)

Using ungodly beliefs to spread a false narrative

So if you meet me, have some courtesy (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
Have some sympathy, and some taste (whoo-hoo, woo-hoo)
Use all your well-learned politeness (whoo-hoo, woo-hoo)
Or I’ll lay your soul to waste, mm yeah (whoo-hoo, woo-hoo)

A call for sympathy, but you can’t bargain with evil.

Pleased to meet you (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
Hope you guess my name, oh yeah (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
But what’s puzzlin’ you (whoo-hoo)
Is the nature of my game, mean it (whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
Get down

Not sure what “get down” is unless it is simply a warning to get out of the Devil’s way.

(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo) whoo-hoo
(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo) oh yeah, get on down
(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo) oh, yeah

A call to join the Devil’s side by getting down.

(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo)
(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo) yeah
(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo) aw, yeah! A-tell me, baby

A series of similar chorus’ to end song.

(Whoo-woo, whoo-woo) what’s my name, tell me, honey
(Whoo-woo, whoo-woo) can ya guess my name, a-tell me, baby
(Whoo-woo, whoo-woo) what’s my name, I tell you one time
(Whoo-woo, whoo-woo) you’re to blame, ooh

This is how the Devil rolls, tempting individuals who end up sinning, then blaming themselves.

(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo) ooh-hoo
(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo) alright
(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo) whoo-hoo-hoo, whoo-hoo-hoo
(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo) whoo-hoo-hoo, oh yeah, whoo-hoo-hoo

A long winded ending.

(Whoo-woo, whoo-woo) whoo-hoo-hoo, oh yeah
(Whoo-woo, whoo-woo) oh, what’s my name, a-tell me baby
(Whoo-woo, whoo-woo) what’s my name, tell me, sweetie
(Whoo-woo, whoo-woo) a-what’s my name, whoo-hoo-hoo

The Devil tries to influence others with compliments.

(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo) whoo-hoo-hoo, whoo-hoo-hoo
(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo) whoo-hoo-hoo
(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo) whoo-hoo-hoo, whoo-hoo-hoo
(Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo) whoo-hoo-hoo, oh yeah
(Whoo-woo, whoo-woo)
(Whoo-woo, whoo-woo)

Closing without any additional references to the Devil.

Final Thoughts:

Any time you reference books written by atheists and or secular humanists, you might find Sympathy for the Devil. However, if you perform a deep dive into why bad things happen to good people, you”ll find traces of demonic influences. Instead of blaming God for their problems, human beings need to open their eyes and mind to the spiritual world so that they can begin to understand the devastation left behind by evil influenced by the Devil.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Message Behind the Music-October 5

Posted on October 5, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Superstition

Inspiration Behind Superstition:

Superstition grew out of Stevie Wonder’s belief that irrational beliefs cause unnecessary suffering. This song was part of an agreement, writing Superstition for Jeff Beck in exchange for Beck playing on the Talking Book album. While each artist was going to release their own version of this song, Motown’s Berry Gordy decided to release Wonder’s version first. Once Superstition became an instant hit, Beck’s version was still in production. This is how Superstition ultimately became another Stevie Wonder classic.

Biblical Application:

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces[a] of this world rather than on Christ. 9 For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, 10 and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority. 11 In him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands. Your whole self ruled by the flesh[b] was put off when you were circumcised by[c] Christ, 12 having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead, Colossians 2:8-12.

Exegesis of Superstition:

Very superstitious writings on the wall
Very superstitious, ladders ’bout to fall
13-month-old baby, broke the looking glass

Seven years of bad luck, the good thing is in your past

Various traditions passed down that have become superstitions in the minds of many.

When you believe in things that you don’t understand
Then you suffer
Superstition ain’t the way

A warning against reading too much into things. Superstitions only bring anxiety and worry.

Ooh, very superstitious, wash your face and hands
Rid me of the problems, do all that you can
Keep me in a daydream, keep me going strong
You don’t wanna save me, sad is my song

Stevie refers to ungodly beliefs, practices that people think are necessary or else something bad will happen to you. Perhaps, Stevie is referring to friends who have become way too superstitious.

When you believe in things you don’t understand
Then you suffer
Superstition ain’t the way, yeah, yeah

Superstitions aren’t healthy for you.

Very superstitious, nothing more to say
Very superstitious, the Devil’s on his way
13-month-old baby, mm, broke the looking glass
Seven years of bad luck, good things in your past, mm

Becoming superstitious opens the door for the Devil to make associations and connections that are not true or real.

When you believe in things that you don’t understand
Then you suffer
Superstition ain’t the way, no, no, no

Let go of your superstitions or you’ll continue to suffer mental anguish.

Final Thoughts:

As a former athlete, I developed pre-game rituals, habits that helped me perform at a high level. However, when you have a bad game, meet or performance, sometimes you blame skipping one of these rituals. Or as a fan, you might have a favorite food before watching a game. You may even have a favorite seat, shirt or something else. When your team loses, not following one of your superstitions is often blamed. Like Stevie wrote decades ago, don’t fall into this superstitious trap. Instead, let things happen, allowing the chips to fall as they may and move on with life.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Message Behind the Music-October 3

Posted on October 3, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Rockwell – Somebody’s Watching Me (Official Music Video)

Inspiration Behind Somebody’s Watching Me:

Rockwell addressed the unsettling feeling of being constantly observed or spied on in this age of hidden cameras. Somebody’s Watching Me explores the paranoia and anxiety that can arise from sensing that you are being watched. This song was conceived out of the feeling that you are being watched via surveillance or from the feeling of being judged by society.

Biblical Application:

For your ways are in full view of the Lord, and he examines all your paths. 22 The evil deeds of the wicked ensnare them; the cords of their sins hold them fast. 23 For lack of discipline they will die, led astray by their own great folly, Proverbs 5:21-23.

Exegesis of Somebody’s Watching You:

Pretty, pretty, pretty as a picture
Witty, witty, witty as you can be
Blind ’cause your eyes see only glitter
Closed to the things that make you free
Ever stop to think about a downfall?
Happens at the end of every line
Just when you think you’ve pulled a fast one
Happens to the foolish all the time

A reference to surveillance cameras in most stores you shop in. These tiny devices often go unnoticed or unseen. Those who think they can steal are discovered when the cameras are rewound.

Somebody’s watching you
Somebody’s watching you
Somebody’s watching you
Somebody’s watching you

Somebody is watching you; big brother.

Games are to be played with toys, et cetera
Love is to be made when you’re for real
Ups and downs are caused by life in general
Some are yours no matter how you feel
Shady as a lady in a moustache
Feelings camouflaged by groans and grins
Secrets have a special way about them
Moving to and fro among your friends

A stanza with a series of charades, disguises, and façades to expose fake people. Despite attempts to hide secrets, they will be discovered in your spheres of influences.

Somebody’s watching you
Somebody’s watching you
Somebody’s watching you
Somebody’s watching you

There is always something observing your daily actions.

Live it up today if you want to
Live it down tomorrow afternoon
Sunday school don’t make you cool forever
Neither does the silver of your spoon
The nicer the nice, the higher the price
This is what you pay for what you need
The higher the price, the nicer the nice
Jealous people like to see you bleed

References to growing up. Whether you went to Sunday School as a child or were raised in a loving family, jealous people want to see good people get hurt. Some people pay for friendships leaving a nice environment until betrayal.

Somebody’s watching you
Somebody’s watching you (somebody, somebody’s watching you)
Somebody’s watching you (somebody, somebody, somebody)
Somebody’s watching you (somebody)
Somebody’s watching you (somebody)
Somebody’s watching you (somebody)
Somebody’s watching you (watching you)
Somebody’s watching you (watching you)
Somebody’s watching you (somebody, you)
Somebody’s watching you (somebody, somebody, somebody, somebody)
Somebody’s watching you
Somebody’s watching you

These are the numerous examples and their motives for watching you in life.

Final Thoughts:

Before surveillance cameras, local neighborhoods would keep an eye on children when their parents were out shopping or at work during the summer. I remember taking something from a yard as a kid before an adult caught me. While I felt miserable at the time, this one event taught me not to steal something that wasn’t mine. This is one of the few benefits of surveillance cameras today.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

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

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Message Behind the Music-September 27

Posted on September 27, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Wishing Well

Inspiration Behind Wishing Well:

Marc Byrd wrote Wishing Well as part of a charitable project called Project Aegis. This song was conceived after completing work on the band’s album Ulterium. Wishing Well reads like a story of a young person navigating life’s complexities. The lyrics express regret and sorrow, seeking forgiveness for the people that he has hurt in his past.

Biblical Application:

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 25 And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins,” Mark 11:25.

Exegesis of Wishing Well:

Red Rover, come over, pick clovers
Let’s spend a little time away
We’re learning, we’re turning, we’re burning our hands
Playing in the fire today

Childhood game reference. Taking a break from life to have fun and be rejuvenated. The last 2 lines are either a metaphor about playing with fire or growing up in a farming community where weeds are burned.

But please don’t listen
To the lies inside this place
When the monster rears its head out
Just turn and see your face

Be careful not to believe gossip. Perhaps an image of childhood fairy tales about monsters living under your bed or in your closet.

When the sky is torn, the feelings are reborn
Like the passing rain, this moment will fade away
And so I try to find my water all by myself
It’s so dry
I won’t stop to cry

Incoming storms which trigger something from your past. Rain washing away any traces of debris, pollen or trash. Going to the wishing well, unable to find water due to a drought. Hope is fleeting.

Indecision is killing, you’re wishing, you’re dreaming
You’re measly life away
Time is out, time is gone, time is in
Time has come and flown away

Struggling to make a decision. Dreaming of what could be and wishing for something instead of being decisive. Complacency, procrastination and uncertainty is causing life and time to slip away.

But please don’t listen
To the lies inside this place
When the monster sticks its head out
Just turn and slap its face

Ungodly beliefs and untruths that human beings pick up during the course of their life.

When the sky is torn, the feelings are reborn
Like the passing rain, this moment will fade away
And so I try to find my water all by myself
It’s so dry

Metaphors to express wandering around in life to convey a journey of self-discovery

I’m drinking from this wishing well
I’m fleeing from this frozen cell
And I think about the people I’ve hurt in my life
I think about the people I’ve hurt in my life
Forgive me for the people I’ve hurt in my life
Forgive me for the people I hurt

This time of reflection has brought up flashbacks and memories of people that this individual has hurt in the past. Seeking forgiveness and reconciliation.

When the sky is torn, the feelings are reborn
Like the passing rain, this moment will fade away
And cannot find my water all by myself
So I wander
And I wander and wander and wander
All by myself

Illustrating how trial and error helps you confront inner struggles head-on instead of putting off important decisions like previous stanzas.

Final Thoughts:

Life is like a giant jigsaw puzzle. It takes time to find all of the border pieces. Once you start to put together the context, you’ll have a better understanding of what you are searching for. As long as you continue to learn by avoiding complacency, discovering the complexities of life becomes attainable. However, if you never evolve or mature, you’ll be like a wandering child, dreaming and wishing for a bright future.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Message Behind the Music-September 26

Posted on September 26, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Bebe Rexha & David Guetta – Sad Girls (Official Lyric Video)

Inspiration Behind Sad Girls:

Sad Girls explores the complex emotions of being “the other woman,” the one who ends up being more like a friend rather than the romantic partner. The lyrics use a narrator who is knowingly involved with a man who has another partner. This unhealthy relationship never ends well, especially when a man doesn’t know who he wants. Sadness is the byproduct of being in a relationship which lacks trust and transparency.

Biblical Application:

Then Sarai said to Abram, “You are responsible for the wrong I am suffering. I put my slave in your arms, and now that she knows she is pregnant, she despises me. May the Lord judge between you and me,” Genesis 16:5.

Exegesis of Sad Girls:

[Chorus]
It’s the last call, baby, and the champagne’s dry
I’m gonna dance, dance, dance with tears in my eyes
And I can’t stand watching you takin’ her home
But sad girls don’t leave ’til the last song
It’s the last call, baby, and I’m dying inside
I’m gonna dance, dance, dance ’til they turn on the lights
And it kills me watching you takin’ her home
But sad girls don’t leave ’til the last song

This special moment is coming to an end. Knowing her man is going back to his wife. Sad girls wait until the very end, holding out hope that she’ll be the one taken home. She refuses to deny reality. Clinging to a miracle.

[Drop]
Oh-woah, oh-woah (Last song, last song, last song, last song)
Sad girls don’t leave ’til the last song
Oh-woah, oh-woah (Last song, last song, last song, last song)
Sad girls don’t leave ’til the last song

Her emotions won’t allow her to give up hope.

[Verse]
Tell me what could happen here
I wish I could disappear
Heartbreak in the neon lights
On the floor, I feel alright, oh

She is putting her hope in the wrong guy. When the evening ends, sadness will return.

[Pre-Chorus]
Tears dipped in glitter and I dance like I don’t know nobody
Lipstick to champagne and venom
Hips sway, watch me while I get ’em
From the window to the wall
Saying I’m alright ’bout a hundred times but
That’s a lie, that’s a lie

Looking for a rebound. Hoping someone else notices her on the dance floor. Yet as much as she tried to tell herself that she is okay, this is a lie.

[Chorus]
‘Cause it’s the last call, baby, and the champagne’s dry

This special night is over and she is going home alone.

[Drop]
Oh-woah, oh-woah
Sad girls don’t leave ’til the last song
Oh-woah, oh-woah
Sad girls don’t leave ’til the last song

Clinging to false hope.

[Bridge]
Coulda sworn I saw you here
But when I looked away, you disappeared
Maybe it’s the flashing lights
But I just miss you too much tonight
And I’m not ready for the lights back on
So, please, don’t turn all the lights back on
Let me hold on to one last song, you know (Oh)

In her mind, she is wishing that this last slow dance together doesn’t end. She doesn’t want this dream to end.

[Chorus]
It’s the last call, baby, and I’m dying inside
I’m gonna dance, dance, dance ’til they turn on the lights
And it kills me watching you takin’ her home
But sad girls don’t leave ’til the last song

Dancing to numb the pain inside her heart. Broken by the sight of her man leaving with someone else.

[Outro]
Sad girls don’t leave ’til the last song (Last song, last song)

This is why sad girls are the last to leave.

Final Thoughts:

I remained in touch with close friends from high school while in college. One of my cross-country friends from another school revealed that our mutual friend was having an affair with a married man. This young college girl didn’t realize that she was the flavor of the month, believing that his married man would leave his wife. She was like the woman in Sad Girls, unwilling to see the reality of this situation. Sadness is a choice, expecting a different result when you know you are the other woman only ends up in tears.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

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

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

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

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

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

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

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

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.
← Older Posts
→