Tag Archives: life

The Message Behind the Music-September 14

Posted on September 13, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Queen – You’re My Best Friend (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind You’re My Best Friend:

You’re My Best Friend was composed by Queen’s bassist, John Deacon. The idea for this song came from John’s wife, Veronica Tetzlaff. The overall theme of You’re My Best Friend highlights the importance of having a best friend or partner who brings joy and meaning to your life. This message has made You’re My Best Friend a timeless classic.

Biblical Application:

After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself, 1 Samuel 18:1.

Exegesis of You’re My Best Friend:

Ooh, you make me live
Whatever this world can give to me
It’s you, you’re all I see
Ooh, you make me live now honey
Ooh, you make me live

An appreciation for a spouse or significant other who makes life enjoyable and fun.

Oh, you’re the best friend
That I ever had
I’ve been with you such a long time
You’re my sunshine
And I want you to know
That my feelings are true
I really love you
(Ooh) Oh, you’re my best friend

Examples of how a friend impacts your life. This realization conceives a kindred spirit and love.

Ooh, you make me live

Bringing joy to life.

Ooh, I’ve been wandering round
But I still come back to you (still come back to you)
In rain or shine
You’ve stood by me girl
I’m happy at home (happy at home)
You’re my best friend

This stanza goes against the world’s view that marriage puts a cramp on your life and freedom. Friends stick around, help you through tough times and are a joy to be around.

Ooh, you make me live
Whenever this world is cruel to me
I got you, to help me forgive – oo oo ooh
Ooh, you make me live now honey
Ooh, you make me live

This stanza is like the original “Lean on Me” as friends give you the strenth to carry on with life.

Oh, you’re the first one
When things turn out bad
You know I’ll never be lonely
You’re my only one
And I love the things
I really love the things that you do
Oh, you’re my best friend

Benefits of a good friend. These special people make a world of difference in life.

Oh, ooh, you make me live

Providing hope and joy.

I’m happy (happy at home)
You’re my best friend
Oh, oh, you’re my best friend
Ooh, you make me live
Oo oo ooh
You, you’re my best friend

While it’s unclear if John is talking about Veronica or vice versa, they had a special relationship that not many couples experience while being married.

Final Thoughts:

When I thought of best friends, Carl imeediately comes to mind. My high school cross-country teammate. Before cell phones, I would go over his house or he would come over mine. Meanwhile, once we started driving, I recall parking late at night, waiting for him to return from a date when a needed a friend. While I was blessed with several good friends in college as well, Carl and I leaned on each other in times of need. When Carl’s mom passed away, my mom became like a second mother to Carl. Listening to You’re My Best Friend brought all these special memories to the forefront of my mind.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 12

Posted on September 12, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Group 1 Crew – “Breakdown”

Inspiration Behind Breakdown:

Breakdown was conceived out of blending spiritual urgency with a party vibe.  The lyrics don’t hesitate, immediately challenging the listener, pointing to a need for inner transformation. If you’re heart, soul and or mind isn’t in the right place, it’s hard to muster any type of enthusiasm. However, when your life begins to turn around for the better, joy will naturally flow out of you, a reason to celebrate.

Biblical Application:

“When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ 20 So he got up and went to his father, Luke 15:17-20.

Exegesis of Breakdown:

They say don’t try to fix what i-i-isn’t broke
But I see that you need a fix in your soul
We, we don’t like to play politics, it’s a joke
So we pu-pu-pushin’ envelopes, envelopes

A common saying about life. Upon further review, your soul needs mending. I’m not talking from a political view, but a spiritual one.

Ain’t nobody stoppin’ the music
Until we fill up the floor
It’s the type of music he created
So you need to let go, go, go, go, go

Certain types of music can soothe your soul or serve as a distraction from life.

See the flashin’ lights, woah
Clock is losin’ time, woah
Gotta shake it off, this feelin’s takin’ off
‘Cause everybody’s waiting for the breakdown

Group One Crew uses a car breaking down to illustrate that people also have breakdowns internally.

You can, you can make it, make it
Happen while we rappin’, rappin’
See the flashin’ lights and camera, camera
So let’s have some action

Having fun like going out dancing can be good for you from time to time.

You can find me in a black SC goin’ over 60
With the windows down

Am image of crusing with your favorite song blasted in your vehicle.

Anybody thinkin’, ooh who’s he? Wit the do-do-dope beat
Tell me, what’s that sound?

Trying to impress others of your taste in music.

G1C witta chopped up beat goin’ back crazy
You can see it, see it
We so, so sick wit’ a boom, boom hit, gotta do, do it
‘Cause we need it, need it

Sometimes human beings need an added boost to start their day like a cool hip hop song.

Ain’t nobody stoppin’ the music
Until we fill up the floor
It’s the type of music he created
So you need to let go, go

The adrenaline that fills you when listening to upbeat music.

See the flashin’ lights, woah
Clock is losin’ time, woah
Gotta shake it off, this feelin’s takin’ off
‘Cause everybody’s waiting for the breakdown

Human beings give off certain signals that lead to a breakdown. Either internally or the desire to let your guard down for a little while to dance and have a good time.

See the flashin’ lights, woah
Clock is losin’ time, woah
Gotta shake it off, this feelin’s takin’ off
‘Cause everybody’s waiting for the breakdown

Repeating the chorus to instill a desire to act.

It’s impossible to put a stop on this trio
And if you haven’t heard, make sure that you let someone know
Get the sunblock ’cause we hot, a unique breed is unlocked
We on the block ’cause we rock hard like the school of knocks

A stanza to promote and tell others about Group One Crew’s music.

This ain’t ya typical, typical group that you heard, it’s a miracle
Little bit a punk wit’ a whole lotta soul
That’ll bump da bump on ya radio

Hyping up this new sound that they created in Breakdown.

Simmer, simmer down all you haters
Didn’t lose our style, we just got better
Beat so cold, did my verse like brrr
Still spiting life so forget what you heard

Likely a stanza to address their critics on social media.

See the flashin’ lights, woah
Clock is losin’ time, woah
Gotta shake it off, this feelin’s takin’ off
‘Cause everybody’s waiting for the breakdown

Perhaps suggesting that people are waiting to see how you dance or how you’ll handle your next ordeal and trail in life.

See the flashin’ lights, woah
Clock is losin’ time, woah
Gotta shake it off, this feelin’s takin’ off
‘Cause everybody’s waiting for the breakdown

Images to create a sense of urgency to change before you have a mental breakdown.

The flashing lights of life
The clock is losin’ time
Waiting for the breakdown

Be on guard and alert.

Do it, gotta feel free
Let the music take you away
‘Cause everybody’s waiting for the breakdown

Let this music lift up your soul so you can start ro have fun in life again.

Final Thoughts:

My oldest two sons got into hip-hop when they became teenagers. Knowing the unwholesome lyrics that occur in many secular groups, I discovered Group One Crew while I was still teaching. Subsequently, while driving I would play songs like Breakdown on the way to school. This particular song became one of Daniel’s favorites. I went on to create mixes so that my kids could listen to music on the way to their next competition to set their minds in the right place before getting out of the car. This is how Breakdown has impacted my life.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 11

Posted on September 11, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Let’s Roll

Inspiration Behind Let’s Roll:

Let’s Roll is about a group of individuals on Flight 93 which was highjacked by terrorists on September 11th, 2001. Today, marks the 25th anniversary of this tragic event. Yet this day in history would have been worse if not for some Americans who fought to take back control of their airplane. While the terrorists on board wanted to strike a building in Washington, D.C, brave Americans made sure this never happened. Before enacting their plan, “Let’s roll” was one of their last words spoken before their plan went down in a remote part of Pennsylvania.

Biblical Application:

In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. 18 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, James 2:17-18.

Exegesis of Let’s Roll:

Please note that the attached version of Let’s Roll is a new version. Because of 9/11, I wanted to focus this exegesis on the original song lyrics by Neil Young.

I know I said I love you
I know you know it’s true
I’ve got to put the phone down
And do what we gotta do
One standing in the highway
Two more at the door
We’ve got to get inside there
Before they kill some more

Referring to Todd Beamer’s cell phone conversation with his wife Lisa while on board Flight 93. After receiving news about the other planes that had already hit their targets, Todd and a few other brave Americans we about to try to take back this plane.

Time is running out
Let’s roll
Time is running out
Let’s roll

Let’s roll was the code to begin moving toward the front of the plane.

No time for indecision
We’ve got to make a move
I hope that we’re forgiven
For what we gotta do
How this all got started
I’ll never understand
I hope someone can fly this thing
And get us back to land

Thoughts going through the minds of these brave Americans. An appeal for forgiveness, an act of aggression to stop evil. The ideal scenario if everything works out according to their plan.

Time is running out
Let’s roll
Time is running out
Let’s roll

The sense of urgency to act before the terrorists fulfill their own mission.

No one has the answer
But one thing is true
You’ve gotta turn on evil
When it’s coming after you
You’ve gotta face it down
And when it tries to hide
You’ve gotta go in after it
And never be denied

This event was so shocking, but America was unified on fighting evil. You have to fight fire with fire. You have to root out evil or it will prevail.

Time is running out
Time is running out
Let’s roll

Carrying out this plan immediately.

Let’s roll for freedom
Let’s roll for love
We’re going after Satan
On the wings of a dove
Let’s roll for justice
Let’s roll for truth
Let’s not let our children
Grow up fearful in their youth

This group of Americans realized that they were probably going to die. Yet they didn’t want to go down without a fight. Justice, truth and spiritual things are worth laying your life down for.

Time is running out
Let’s roll
Time is running out
Let’s roll
Time is running out
Let’s roll

Getting your mind straight, going over the plan before carrying out this plan.

Final Thoughts:

In the immediate aftermath of September 11th, 2001, I realized that I wasn’t doing what I was created to do. Subsequently, in the months that followed, I apllied for a teaching position, interviewed and was hired at the beginning of the second semester. I spent the next decade of my life challenging, developing and shaping the minds of teenagers. This may have never happened if September 11th never occurred. The heros of Flight 93 ignited a new generation of Americans with a sense of urgency to Let’s Roll.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 3

Posted on September 3, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Journey – Don’t Stop Believin’ (Official Audio)

Inspiration Behind Don’t Stop Believin’:

When the timing is right, sound advice can serve as a launching pad. The advice given by Jonathan Cain’s father when his son was struggling as a musician led to the formation of Journey’s most iconic hit. The actual words spoken to Jonathan were Don’t Stop Believing or you’re done. Self-belief is what can keep artists going during times of disappointment, failure and setbacks. Without this mentality, Don’t Stop Believin’ wouldn’t be a song and no one would have ever heard of the group Journey.

Biblical Application:

A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” 28 Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”29 Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed,” John 20:26-29.

Exegesis of Don’t Stop Believin’:

Just a small-town girl, livin’ in a lonely world
She took the midnight train going anywhere
Just a city boy, born and raised in South Detroit
He took the midnight train going anywhere

Starting off with a girl who was lost and lonely. A life void of vision. Transitions to a city boy who took the same train, not sure where he was going in life.

A singer in a smokey room
A smell of wine and cheap perfume
For a smile, they can share the night
It goes on, and on, and on, and on

Perhaps referring to Jonathon’s early years as a struggling musician living in Los Angeles. This is where this boy and girl meet.

Strangers waitin’ up and down the boulevard
Their shadows searchin’ in the night
Streetlights, people, livin’ just to find emotion
Hidin’ somewhere in the night

Signs of people living in this world without much hope or promise.

Workin’ hard to get my fill
Everybody wants a thrill
Payin’ anything to roll the dice
Just one more time

Working hard to find a better future. Searching for excitement. This involves taking chances, maybe even gambling.

Some’ll win, some will lose
Some are born to sing the blues

More people lose than win. This leads many to live in poverty throughout their lives.

Whoa, the movie never ends
It goes on, and on, and on, and on

Some trials in life never seem to end.

Strangers waitin’ up and down the boulevard
Their shadows searchin’ in the night
Streetlights, people livin’ just to find emotion
Hidin’ somewhere in the night

A sad reality of people that don’t experience much success in life. Left to live in obscurity.

Don’t stop believin’
Hold on to that feelin’
Streetlights, people

When belief disappears, your career is finished.

Don’t stop believin’
Hold on
Streetlights, people

Stay optimistic.

Don’t stop believin’
Hold on to that feelin’
Streetlights, people

Keep your head up and don’t lose hope.

Final Thoughts:

I was in Junior High when Don’t Stop Believin’ was released. I battled depression for 4 years, struggling to find my place in life. This song would be played every hour on the local radio station, sometimes at the exact same time each hour. Since I didn’t really get into music until 8th grade, my emotional state was like riding on a roller coaster. However, now that I know the inspiration behind Don’t Stop Believin’, I have a better appreciation for this song. Belief gives individuals a reason to get up each day. Yet when belief fades, so do aspiration, dreams and vision for a prosperous life. Therefore, don’t stop believing.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 1: A Season of Transition

Posted on September 1, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Earth, Wind & Fire – September (Official HD Video)

Monthly Theme:

Whether you are in school, starting a new job or thinking about retirement, September is often marked by a Season of Transition. If you are heading off to college, moving to a new school or changing careers, this month will include making new friends, reconnecting with people from your past and learning new skills. Although change isn’t easy. sometimes you need to reinvent yourself so that you’ll be better prepared for the future. This month’s selection of songs touch on the emotional highs and lows of relationships as well as trials that you’ll face in life.

Inspiration Behind September:

September promotes a carefree philosophy of living in the moment. Featured in the movie Night at the Museum, September was crafted to inspire people to dance as well as to celebrate the good times you experience in life. Approaching nearly 50 years since its release, September has become a timeless classic often used in fall celebrations.

Biblical Application:

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do, James 1:22-25.

Exegesis of September:

Do you remember
The 21st night of September?
Love was changing the minds of pretenders
While chasing the clouds away

Looking back at a specific date. This special day changed the way many people thought about love.

Our hearts were ringing
In the key that our souls were singing
As we danced in the night, remember
How the stars stole the night away, oh yeah

This event was celebrated by many people like a royal wedding. To those in attendance, the dance floor was open all night. Either a reference to dancing outside at night or a celebrity ball.

Hey, hey, hey
Ba-dee-ya, say, do you remember?
Ba-dee-ya, dancing in September
Ba-dee-ya, never was a cloudy day

This was a special evening that is often brought up in discussions.

Ba-du-du, ba-du-du, ba-du-du, ba-du-du
Ba-du-du, ba-du-du, ba-du-du, ba-du-du
Ba-du-du, ba-du-du, ba-du-da

A fun transition.

My thoughts are with you
Holding hands with your heart to see you
Only blue talk and love, remember

Thinking about a special person. Perhaps memories of their wedding.

How we knew love was here to stay

A wedding where those in attendance realized that they belonged together.

Now December, found the love we shared in September
Only blue talk and love, remember
The true love we share today

Fond memories of their marriage.

Hey, hey, hey
Ba-dee-ya, say, do you remember?
Ba-dee-ya, dancing in September
Ba-dee-ya, never was a cloudy day
There was a
Ba-dee-ya, say, do you remember?
Ba-dee-ya, dancing in September
Ba-dee-ya, golden dreams were shiny days

A time of reminiscing.

The bell was ringing, oh, oh
Our souls were singing
Do you remember
Never a cloudy day, yow

Wedding day bells. Closely knitted. Looking at life with a positive perspective.

There was a
Ba-dee-ya, say, do you remember?
Ba-dee-ya, dancing in September
Ba-dee-ya, never was a cloudy day
And we’ll say
Ba-dee-ya, say, do you remember?
Ba-dee-ya, dancing in September
Ba-dee-ya, golden dreams were shiny days

Repeating the chorus with fond memories of the past.

Ba-dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya
Ba-dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya
Ba-dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya
Ba-dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya
Ba-dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya
Ba-dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya, dee-ya

A good beat to dance to.

Final Thoughts:

My oldest son James celebrated a birthday by taking some friends to see Night at the Museum. Subsequently, whenever I hear September, I think of this movie about a man who was struggling in life until one evening as a night janitor transformed his perspective on life. Renewed with confidence, hope and purpose, Larry Daley came home from work a different person with a bounce in his step. This is what can happen on a special day this month.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 31

Posted on August 31, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Skarlett Riot – Rising (Official Music Video 2015)

Inspiration Behind Rising:

Skarlett Riot created a sung to encourage listeners to bounce back from adversity. This rock band from Scunthorpe, England formed 5 years before releasing Rising. When you are young, you can feel invincible until disappointment, failure and trials put your confidence to the test. Rising serves as an anthem for individuals who refuse to quit.

Biblical Application:

If you falter in a time of trouble, how small is your strength! – Proverbs 24:10

Exegesis of Rising:

I saw it comin now,
When I looked into your eyes,
You knew I wouldn’t last,
In this cruel world,
You can’t deny,
They pulled me down,
And dragged me round like a puppet,
On a string now,
Controlled by you,
Made out a fool,

A failed relationship and the consequences that followed.

Like a phoenix up above,
Rising from the flames,
I’ll be back again,
I feel much stronger now,
You won’t know how,
To shoot me down again,
These wounds have healed with time,
But they scar for life,
I won’t be hurt again,
Like a phoenix up above,
Rising from the flames,

Beside the heartache, frustration and pain, Skarlett possesses resolve to press on. She’ll be back.

I‘ll be back again,
I’ll be back again…

I’ll be back again…

She doesn’t give a time frame, but she will recover.

You’ve got a lotta nerve,
To attack me with your venom,
You’ve got a lot to learn,
You’re not so shy when your alone,
I’ll get revenge,
I’m not as shy as I once was,
This world is better off,
Without people like you,

Skarlett was verbally abused either by a former boyfriend or parent. This situation has made her more vocal, realizing that the world is better off without human beings who spew venomous words.

Oh am I too cruel?
Oh am I too cruel?

She admits to being able to be cruel and petty.

Like a phoenix up above,
Rising from the flames,
I’ll be back again,
I feel much stronger now,
You won’t know how,
To shoot me down again,
These wounds have healed with time,
But they scar for life,
I won’t be hurt again,
Like a phoenix up above,
Rising from the flames,

Don’t let adversity hold you down for long. Rise up from the ashes of failure and rejection. While she still may be hurt, she is resilient.

I’ll be back again,
I’ll be back again…
I’ll be back again…

Eager to recover by coming back stronger than ever.

You’ll get what you deserve,
I’ll get my revenge, revenge,
Your poisonous mouth,

You’ll reap what you sow.

Wont hurt me now,
I’m immune to your curse,
And all your wickedness,
All your wickedness

I’m done with you. You can’t hurt me now.

Like a phoenix up above,
Rising from the flames,
I’ll be back again,
I feel much stronger now,
You won’t know how,
To shoot me down again,
These wounds have healed with time,
But they scar for life,
I won’t be hurt again,
Like a phoenix up above,
Rising from the flames,
I’ll be back again,
I’ll be back again…
I’ll be back again…
Ill be back again…
Ill be back again…

Ending with an extended chorus. Using Greek Mythology to highlight the importance of coming back from defeat and failure. Despite the pain, get back up and rise again.

Final Thoughts:

I discovered Skarlett Riot during the Coronavirus. While working in isolation, I was able to listen to music at work while I was problem solving. As the calendar turns the page tomorrow to September, don’t let the disappointments of this summer hold you down. Rather, rise from the ashes of defeat so that this fall you’ll be back again, stronger than ever.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 30

Posted on August 30, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Michael Jackson – Man In The Mirror (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind Man in the Mirror:

Man in the Mirror was conceived from a desire to create a song that would serve as an anthem for social change. At this stage in Michael’s career, Jackson was acutely aware of global issues such as poverty, apartheid, environmental degradation, and inequality. Siedah Garrett had been developing the concept of Man in the Mirror for a year, jotting down notes as a vision for this song became clear. When Michael noticed Garrett’s written lines about a man looking in the mirror, the direction for this song was captured.

Biblical Application:

When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. 12 For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known, 1 Corinthians 13:11-12.

Exegesis of Man in the Mirror:

[Intro]
Mm-mm-mm
Ah, ooh, uh, uh

Warm up, ready to start.

[Verse 1]
I’m gonna make a change for once in my life
It’s gonna feel real good
Gonna make a difference, gonna make it right, ah, uh
As I turned up the collar on my favorite winter coat
This wind is blowin’ my mind
I see the kids in the street with not enough to eat
Who am I to be blind, pretending not to see their needs?

Michael was tired about talking about change without any actions. He began to take his role as a celebrity serious. While he was getting dressed on a cold winter day, his eyes were opened to the poverty surrounding him.

[Pre-Chorus]
A summer’s disregard,a broken bottle top
And a one man’s soul
They follow each other on the wind, ya know
‘Cause they got nowhere to go
That’s why I want you to know

Alluding to the homeless who follow each other as they have no place to go.

[Chorus]
I’m starting with the man in the mirror
I’m asking him to change his ways
And no message could have been any clearer
If you wanna make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself and then make a change

Michael begins by looking at his own life to see how he can make a difference. Change starts with yourself by looking deep inside your heart and soul. Searching for conviction to be transformed into an agent of change.

[Post-Chorus]
Na-na-na, na-na-na, na-na, na-na
Uh-huh

A fun transition.

[Verse 2]
I’ve been a victim of a selfish kinda love
It’s time that I realize
There are some with no home
Not a nickel to loan
Could it be really me pretending that they’re not alone?

Michael had been so self-absorbed that he didn’t recognize all the needy people that he passed daily. Change begins with a random act of kindness that spreads to the point that you are inspired to give.

[Pre-Chorus]
A willow deeply scarred, somebody’s broken heart
And a washed-out dream (Washed-out dream)
They follow the pattern of the wind, ya see
‘Cause they got no place to be
That’s why I’m starting with me

The need to become aware of your surroundings. To stop, see and start acting out in love.

[Chorus]
I’m starting with the man in the mirror (Who?)
I’m asking him to change his ways (Who?)
And no message could have been any clearer
If you wanna make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself and then make a change
I’m starting with the man in the mirror (Who?)
I’m asking him to change his ways (Who?)
And no message could have been any clearer
If you wanna make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself and then make that change
I’m starting with the man in the mirror (Man in the mirror, oh, yeah)
I’m asking him to change his ways (Change his ways)
(Oh, you better change)
And no message (Ooh, ooh) could have been any clearer

Michael is singing to himself. As if he was giving himself a pep talk to try harder. Don’t wait for others to do something. Be the catalyst by deciding to start making a difference today.

[Bridge]
If you wanna make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself and then make the change
You gotta get it right while you got the time
‘Cause when you close your heart (You can’t)
Then you close your mind (Close your, your mind)

You can make a difference in this world if you want to. However, you must have a sense of urgency or you’ll be lulled back into a state of complacency.

[Chorus]
(That man, that man) I’m starting with the man in the mirror
(That man)
(Ohh yeah)
(That man, that man) I’m asking him to change his ways
(That man, the man, you know, that man)
(Well, I’ll change)
And no message could have been any clearer (Ooh, ooh)
If you want to make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself and then make that
(Take a look at yourself and then make that)
Change

The final chorus hoping to inspire others to make a difference in this life.

[Post-Chorus]
Hoo, hoo (Na-na-na, na-na-na, na-na, na-na), hoo, hoo, hoo, hoo, hoo
Gonna feel real good (Oh, yeah)
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah (Na-na-na, na-na-na, na-na, na-na)
Yeah, yeah, oh no, oh no

Giving makes you feel good.

[Outro]
I’m gonna make a change
It’s gonna feel real good, shamone (Change)
Just lift yourself, you know
You’ve got to start with yourself, brother, (Yeah) hoo
(Make that change) I gotta make that change today, hoo (Man in the mirror) You’ve got to, you got to start with yourself, brother, hoo (Yeah)
You know (Make that change)
I started with that man, that man (Man in the mirror)
You’ve got to, you’ve got to move, shamone, shamone
You’ve got to stand up (Yeah), stand up (Make that change), stand up, stand up and lift yourself now (Man in the mirror)
Hoo, hoo, hoo, oww (Yeah, make that change)
Go make that change, shamone (Man in the mirror)
You know it, you know it, you know it, you know (Change)
Make that change

Final call to action, challenging listeners to get off the sidelines and begin to help their fellow citizens. Make a change today.

Final Thoughts:

My first job after graduating college was in social work. I was a Summer Workcamp Coordinator for the Methodist Action Program in Wilmington, Delaware. I worked with local churches to set up one day, weekend and weeklong service projects in needy neighbors. One of my favorite memories is when a youth group transformed a drug infested playground full of glass, overgrown weeds and trash. By the end of the day, children began to play here for the first time in months. This is how change occurs.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 29

Posted on August 29, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Icon For Hire – Get Well

Inspiration Behind Get Well:

Icon for Hire explores self-destructive behavior, the desire for change, and the longing for genuine connection within Get Well. The lyrics address individuals who use their pain as a way to gain attention and validation from others. This form of self-infliction is called out in Get Well, urging listeners to get help before their condition worsens.

Biblical Application:

Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise, Jeremiah 17:14.

Exegesis of Get Well:

We throw tantrums like parties
We’re not happy ’til everyone knows we’re sick
And that’s just how we like it
We’ve hurt bad enough, right, we’ve earned it

Addressing individuals who don’t know how to express how they feel. Making a scene so that other people realize that they need help. Someone wanting to become the center of attention.

Don’t tell the others but it’s all getting old
I mean how many more times must our stories be told?
And being lonely’s only fun in a group
But sort of loses its charm when it’s true

Friends begin to notice this pattern. This situation isn’t improving. Being the center of attention has lost its charm.

I meant it when I said I wanna get well, I wanna get well
Are the rest of you so content?
Stay where you are but it hurts like hell
And I’m sure it’s fun at first
Test your pulse and check your vitals
If it’s only a game you lost me
I quit it with the suicidal recital

While this person wants to get well, they aren’t showing signs of improvement. This group is trying to hold their friend accountable, to become self-reliant. Yet this constant talk of suicide is concerning.

So now you know all my secrets
I want out, I know I don’t need this
Can you find me friends that don’t rank me on what I’ve been through
The more battle scars the more attention it gets you

This individual that needs help appears to have become co-dependent, acting out to get more attention. Her current friends are simply feeding her desire for attention.

Don’t tell the others but it’s all getting old
I mean how many more times must our stories be told?
And being lonely’s only fun in a group
But sort of loses its charm when it’s true

The chorus repeats itself as friends are beginning to see through this charade.

I meant it when I said I wanna get well, I wanna get well
Are the rest of you so content?
Stay where you are but it hurts like hell
And I’m sure it’s fun at first
Test your pulse and check your vitals
If it’s only a game you lost me
I quit it with the suicidal recital

The victim’s point of view. You can’t see the pain deep inside my heart. These soul spirit hurts are triggering thoughts of suicide.

Yeah, we should’ve known it would end this way
What did you expect? Pretend it all away
And all we’ve got left is a sorry pile of hearts
I’m getting out, gonna write myself a new start
Come on dry your eyes, meet me on the other side
Run as fast as you can and we’ll make it out alive
We know better now, we don’t have to live like this
Go tell them all, we don’t have to live like this

Friends aren’t surprised by a lack of progress. Hearts are still wounded. The victim is at a crossroads, after crying she realizes the need to flee this unhealthy pattern. You don’t have to live like this anymore.

I meant it when I said I wanna get well…

Wanting to get well but unable to change her ways.

I meant it when I said I wanna get well, I wanna get well
Are the rest of you so content?
Stay where you are but it hurts like hell
And I’m sure it’s fun at first
Test your pulse and check your vitals
If it’s only a game you lost me
I quit it with the suicidal recital
If it’s only a game you lost me
I quit it with the suicidal recital

A friend is in desperate need of an intervention. A group of girls have tried to help but have failed to improve her condition. Although suicidal thoughts have subsided, professional and or spiritual assistance is needed.

Final Thoughts:

When I was first introduced to the concept of accepting Jesus as the Savior of my life, I joined a sharing group at church to find out more what his actually meant. One of the high school girls had a rough childhood, revealing deep dark secrets from her past. However, each preceding week, this girl became like the woman in Get Well. Instead of getting better, this gal tried to become the center of attention week after week. While not everyone requires intervention, children who have experienced traumatic events growing up often require years of counseling to be healed.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 26

Posted on August 26, 2026 by expressyourself4him

The Smashing Pumpkins – Tonight, Tonight (Official Music Video)

Inspiration Behind Tonight, Tonight:

Billy Corgan writes about escaping an abusive childhood. Tonight, Tonight is addressed to himself, as Billy reflects upon growing up in Chicago. The lyrics blend themes of hope, change, and self-empowerment. This personal encounter of escaping conceived self-belief which became the emotional core of Tonight, Tonight.

Biblical Application:

Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. 13 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it, John 14:12-14.

Exegesis of Tonight, Tonight:

Time
Is never time at all
You can never ever leave
Without leaving a piece of youth
And our lives are forever changed
We will never be the same
The more you change, the less you feel

Billy waited longer than he wanted to escape the abuse he endured as a child. However, leaving this situation didn’t remove the soul spirits hurts that lingered deep inside. This transition was difficult, not meant for a child.

Believe
Believe in me

Like a prayer, hope that things will get better.

Believe
That life can change
That you’re not stuck in vain
We’re not the same, we’re different
Tonight

Like a mental struggle, speaking belief into existence. This was Billy’s road to healing and recovery.

Tonight
So bright
Tonight

Things have to change tonight. Believe that life can get better.

And you know you’re never sure
But you’re sure you could be right
If you held yourself up to the light
And the embers never fade
In your city by the lake
The place where you were born

There is always inner doubt lurking. Subtle reflections of growing up in Chicago, searching for what is right with a flicker of hope that refuses to die.

Believe
Believe in me

This is where belief is essential.

Believe
In the resolute urgency of now
And if you believe there’s not a chance tonight

Looking for an opportunity to escape. Believing freedom is possible.

Tonight
So bright
Tonight

May tonight is the night.

We’ll crucify the insincere tonight
We’ll make things right
We’ll feel it all tonight
We’ll find a way to offer up the night
Tonight
The indescribable moments of your life
Tonight
The impossible is possible
Tonight
Believe in me as I believe in you
Tonight

This is the struggle that Billy fought through to escape abuse as a child.

Final Thoughts:

Part of growing up is finding friends that you can lean on during trials that you experience. As someone helps you through a different situation, pay it forward by helping someone who faces a similar ordeal. Some of my closest friends in high school and college are the ones I poured out my heart and soul to. In our separate brokenness, we leaned on each other to get through these painful hardships. Tonight, Tonight now serves as an anthem for any children trying to escape abusive homes today.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 24

Posted on August 24, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Brooks & Dunn – Red Dirt Road (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind Red Dirt Road:

Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn relied on their childhood experiences to write Red Dirt Road. The idea was conceived during a 2002 tour when each brought up memories of growing up in Arkansas. The East Main highway out of El Dorado was their main drag, the place where they cruised around town as teenagers. These life encounters helped conceive the lyrics of Red Dirt Road.

Biblical Application:

“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? 47 As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. 48 They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. 49 But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete,” Luke 6:46-49.

Exegesis of Red Dirt Road:

I was raised off of Rural Route 3
Out past where the blacktop ends
We’d walk to church on Sunday morning
Race barefoot back to Johnson’s fence
That’s where I first saw Mary
On that roadside, pickin’ blackberries
That summer, I turned a corner in my soul
Down that red dirt road

Reflections from the past, vivid images. Walking to church, competitions, and his first love. Picking berries, likely with Mary and his spiritual maturity.

It’s where I drank my first beer
It’s where I found Jesus
Where I wrecked my first car
I tore it all to pieces
I learned the path to Heaven
Is full of sinners and believers
Learned that happiness on Earth
Ain’t just for high achievers
I’ve learned, I’ve come to know
There’s life at both ends of that red dirt road

Quick snapshots of growing up. These ups and down led Brooks and Dunn toward Jesus. This maturity led to a new perspective about life.

Her daddy didn’t like me much
In my shackled up GTO

Mary’s parents didn’t like a guy who liked to drive fast.

I’d sneak out in the middle of the night
Throw rocks at her bedroom window
We’d turn out the headlights
And drive by the moonlight
Talk about what the future might hold
Down that red dirt road

Memories of his first serious girlfriend.

It’s where I drank my first beer
It’s where I found Jesus
Where I wrecked my first car
I tore it all to pieces
I learned the path to Heaven
Is full of sinners and believers
Learned that happiness on Earth
Ain’t just for high achievers
I’ve learned, I’ve come to know
There’s life at both ends of that red dirt road

Repeating the chorus detailing firsts in life. This search led to what the Bible refers to as the narrow path.

I went out into the world
And I came back in
I lost Mary
Oh, I got her back again
And driving home tonight
Feels like I found a long lost friend

Filling in the gaps. Losing your way in life. Breaking and mending a relationship. A glimpse of the ups and downs in life.

It’s where I drank my first beer
It’s where I found Jesus
Where I wrecked my first car
I tore it all to pieces
I learned the path to Heaven
Is full of sinners and believers
Learned that happiness on Earth
Ain’t just for high achievers
I’ve learned, I’ve come to know
There’s life at both ends of that red dirt road

Growing up can be hard, but when you start turning your life around, peace can be found.

Yes, I’ve learned, I’ve come to know
There’s life at both ends of that red dirt road

These are the life lessons learned while growing up.

Final Thoughts:

Playing sports was one of the best parts of my life growing up. The relationships that I developed with teammates hold a special place in my heart. While I have lost touch with many of these individuals, I still hear from some of them from time to time. Hanging out with my cross-country teammates was always memorable, especially when we met up on dates at the Charcoal Pit. Yet the most special memories occurred on Lay Mission Witness weekends, often with friends from the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. These life changing retreats helped shape who I have become as an adult. These are my own Delaware moments like Red Dirt Road.

by Jay Mankus

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