Tag Archives: music

The Message Behind the Music-March 5

Posted on March 5, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Material Girl:

Madonna’s Material Girl was inspired by the rapid spread of materialism in the 1980’s. Although Madonna possessed an internal desire for luxury and wealth, she addresses the superficial nature of people giving expensive gifts for something in return. After graduating from high school in Rochester, Michigan, Madonna moved to New York City to follow her dreams. The success of Material Girl propelled Madonna to become a legendary female singer.

Biblical Application:

Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral. 5 Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you,” Hebrews 13:4-5.

Exegesis of Material Girl:

Some boys kiss me, some boys hug me
I think they’re okay
If they don’t give me proper credit
I just walk away

Madonna doesn’t mind attention from the opposite sex. However, when she doesn’t receive a certain level of respect, she simply walks away.

They can beg and they can plead
But they can’t see the light, that’s right, that’s right
‘Cause the boy with the cold hard cash
Is always Mister Right

Madonna isn’t bothered by flattery or gifts. Yet someone with financial stability in his bank account is what Madonna is searching for.

‘Cause we are living in a material world
And I am a material girl
You know that we are living in a material world
And I am a material girl

Living in New York City as an aspiring singer wasn’t easy for Madonna. Subsequently, she became a material girl living in a world full of materialism.

Some boys romance, some boys slow dance
That’s alright with me
If they can’t raise my interest then I
Have to let them be

Madonna enjoys dancing and romance. However, the guy she is looking for must be impressive or else she’ll lose interest quickly.

Some boys try and some boys lie but
I don’t let them play, no way, no way
Only boys that save their pennies
Make my rainy day

Madonna doesn’t have any patience for liars and players. She is looking for prudent and shrewd individuals who possess a vision for the future.

‘Cause they are living in a material world
And I am a material girl
You know that we are living in a material world
And I am a material girl

Madonna had an intuition that material possessions would continue to climb in value, making this lifestyle hard to sustain.

Living in a material world
(Material)
Living in a material world
Living in a material world
(Material)
Living in a material world

This chorus drives home the foresight of being financially responsible.

Boys may come and boys may go
And that’s alright you see
Experience has made me rich
And now they’re after me

Life experiences have made Madonna popular and wealthy.

‘Cause everybody’s living in a material world
And I am a material girl
You know that we are living in a material world
And I am a material girl

This journey as a material girl elevated Madonna into the category of rich and famous.

Living in a material world
And I am a material girl
You know that we are living in a material world
And I am a material girl

Perhaps this repetitive chorus is meant to reinforce Madonna rise in pop culture.

A material, a material
A material, a material world

Once you reach this status of a material girl, the world expects you to stay here.

Living in a material world
(Material)
Living in a material world
Living in a material world
(Material)
Living in a material world

This became Madonna’s mindset.

Living in a material world
(Material)
Living in a material world
Living in a material world
(Material)
Living in a material world

Fame and fortune changed Madonna.

Final Thoughts:

As I entered high school, Madonna was seeking to become to next great female singer. Along the way to the top, Madonna continued to push the envelope in her lyrics and music videos. By the time I graduated from college, Madonna had gone off the deep end, losing touch with the Catholic girl growing up in Michigan. God gives human beings free will to do and live as they choose. Maybe, God willing, this prodigal daughter will come to her senses at some time before her singing career ends. As for now, Madonna has become the material girl from this song.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-March 1: Celebrating Woman’s History Month by featuring Female Bands and Vocalists

Posted on March 1, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Girls Just Want to Have Fun:

In a documentary entitled “Let the Canary Sing,” Cyndi Lauper initially rejected a request from her producer to sing Girl’s Just Want to Have Fun. This song was too masculine in its original version. Subsequently, Lauper refused to perform this song as is, leaning on her team of musicians to alter Girls Just Want to Have Fun. After recording a demo, Cyndi still wasn’t happy as she felt this song was missing something. Once Lauper realized this song’s arrangement could be made unique, she used her voice to hit different keys to take on a totally different sound. This alteration enabled Cyndi Lauper to become who she really is as a singer.

Biblical Application:

A person can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in their own toil. This too, I see, is from the hand of God, 25 for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment? – Ecclesiastes 2:24-25

Exegesis of Girls Just Want to Have Fun:

I come home, in the mornin’ light
My mother says, “When you gonna live your life right?”
Oh momma dear, we’re not the fortunate ones
And girls, they wanna have fun
Oh girls just wanna have fun

Cyndi was fighting the stereotypes of woman back in the 1980’s. There was a time in America where woman were expected to get married, have children and stay home to raise them. This is the mindset her mother was coming from. However, Cyndi was simply looking for a good time each day.

The phone rings, in the middle of the night
My father yells, “What you gonna do with your life?”
Oh daddy dear, you know you’re still number one
But girls, they wanna have fun
Oh girls just wanna have

Cyndi’s father shared at similar worldview of the role of women in society. Cyndi still loves and respects her father, but she isn’t afraid to express what she is feeling.

That’s all they really want
Some fun
When the workin’ day is done
Oh girls, they wanna have fun
Oh girls just wanna have fun (girls, they want)
(Wanna have fun, girls)
(Wanna have)

Following societal expectations for women may be fine for most, but Cyndi was a rebel, wanting to unwind after work. Spending time in some form of recreation helps renew your soul.

Some boys take a beautiful girl
And hide her away from the rest o’ the world
I wanna be the one to walk in the sun
Oh girls, they wanna have fun
Oh girls just wanna have

Cyndi doesn’t want to spend most of her life at home in a kitchen. She enjoys being outside, doing something fun in the sun.

That’s all they really want
Is some fun
When the workin’ day is done
Oh girls, they wanna have fun
Oh girls just wanna have fun (girls, they want)
(Wanna have fun, girls)
(Wanna have)

Cyndi is attempting to vocalize what many women think but are afraid to verbalize it.

They just want, they just wanna (girls)
They just want, they just wanna (girls just wanna have fun)
Oh girls, girls just wanna have fun
(Just want, they just wanna)
They just wanna, they just wanna (girls)
They just want, they just wanna (girls just wanna have fun)
Oh girls, girls just wanna have fun

The thought of working a typical 9-5 job bored Cyndi. She wanted to do something that would be fun and exciting. Cyndi was a visionary before social media existed.

When the workin’
When the workin’ day is done
Oh, when the workin’ day is done
Oh, girls, girls just wanna have fun
Everybody
Huh, huh

Going out to a bar or club dancing after worked seemed fun to Cyndi.

They just want, they just wanna (girls)
They just want, they just wanna (girls just wanna have fun)
Oh, girls, girls just wanna have fun
(They just wanna, they just wanna) when the workin’
When the working day is done (they just want, they just wanna)
Oh, when the working day is done (girls, girls just wanna have fun)
Oh girls, girls just wanna have fun

Women aren’t wired like men. Subsequently, what is fun for women may not be enjoyable for men.

(They just want, they just wanna)
(They just want, they just wanna)

Still, the girl inside of every woman just wants to have fun.

Final Thoughts:

My mother sacrificed the first 20 years of marriage raising 3 children, with me being the last. Once I reached high school, my mom began to excel in Real Estate. Meanwhile, she also could have been a professor bowler, averaging 165 per game bowling twice a week when the top women in the world were averaging 175 per game. Human beings make sacrifices throughout life to help family, friends and members of their community. However, when you find an occupation that you enjoy and excel in, you can have fun every day doing what you love.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 25

Posted on February 25, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind We Belong Together:

Sometimes relationship end out of anger, bitterness or a lack of appreciation of the person you were with. As Mariah reflects upon previous relationships in her life, the value of a lost love is at the heart of We Belong Together. This songs creation was a collaboration between producers Jermaine Dupri, Manuel Seal and Johnta Austin who blended R & B together with pop elements.

Biblical Application:

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38 Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you,” Luke 6:37-39.

Exegesis of We Belong Together:

Ooh, oh, ooh, oh
Sweet love, yeah

Based upon the opening of this video, Mariah is thinking about the sexual nature of love.

I didn’t mean it
When I said I didn’t love you, so
I should have held on tight
I never shoulda let you go

Mariah regrets breaking up with an old boyfriend, using this stanza as an apology.

I didn’t know nothing
I was stupid, I was foolish
I was lying to myself

Mariah was too immature to realize what she had in this former relationship.

I could not fathom that I would ever
Be without your love
Never imagined I’d be
Sitting here beside myself

Mariah took this relationship for granted, expecting that they would always be together.

Cause I didn’t know you
Cause I didn’t know me
But I thought I knew everything
I never felt

Mariah didn’t know what she was looking for in a man. Arrogant and unteachable at this time in life.

The feeling that I’m feeling
Now that I don’t hear your voice
Or have your touch and kiss your lips
Cause I don’t have a choice

Mariah is lonely, suffering from physical withdraw of not having him around to touch.

Oh, what I wouldn’t give
To have you lying by my side
Right here,? cause baby

Mariah is asking for a second chance, wishing she could go back in time to change past decisions.

When you left I lost a part of me
It’s still so hard to believe
Come back baby, please
Cause we belong together

Mariah is experiencing the pain of soul ties, lost intimacy with her old boyfriend.

Who else am I gon’ lean on
When times get rough?
Who’s gonna talk to me on the phone
Till the sun comes up?
Who’s gonna take your place?
There ain’t nobody better
Oh, baby baby, we belong together

Mariah feels lost without her former security blanket.

I can’t sleep at night
When you are on my mind
Bobby Womack’s on the radio
Saying to me

Special songs of this past relationship keep reminding Mariah of what she once had.

“If you think you’re lonely now”
Wait a minute
This is too deep
(Too deep)
I gotta change the station

Depression is leading Mariah to dwell too much on the past instead of looking forward to the future.

So I turn the dial
Trying to catch a break
And then I hear Babyface
“I only think of you”

Mariah can’t get her former love off her mind.

And it’s breaking my heart
I’m trying to keep it together
But I’m falling apart

Mariah is falling into a deep depression, unable to recover from this broken relationship.

I’m feeling all out of my element
I’m throwing things, crying
Trying to figure out
Where the hell I went wrong

Mariah is mad at yourself for breaking off this relationship as if to say,” what was I thinking?”

The pain reflected in this song
It ain’t even half of what
I’m feeling inside
I need you, need you back in my life, baby

Words can’t express how much I miss you.

When you left I lost a part of me
And it’s still so hard to believe
Come back baby, please
Cause we belong together

Lost intimacy is driving Mariah crazy, begging for a second chance.

Who else am I gon’ lean on
When times get rough?
Who’s gonna talk to me on the phone
Till the sun comes up?
Who’s gonna take your place?
There ain’t nobody better
Oh, baby baby, we belong together, baby

In Mariah’s mind, no one compares to her former love.

When you left I lost a part of me
It’s still so hard to believe
Come back baby, please
Cause we belong together

Life is not the same without you.

Who am I gonna lean on
When times get rough?
Who’s gonna talk to me
Till the sun comes up?
Who’s gonna take your place?
There ain’t nobody better
Oh baby, baby
We belong together

A final plea to come back.

Final Thoughts:

Love is often timing, meeting the right person at the right time when you are both single. Yet immaturity and pride can lead couples to separate. One thing missing from the lyrics is an apology. Mariah doesn’t ask for forgiveness. Perhaps, being a famous singer, telling someone that we belong together is enough. While forgiveness is a crucial step, forgiving and forgetting the pain that someone caused is even harder to overcome. Perhaps, this is the final hurdle for this couple to clear before being reunited.

by Jay M ankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 24

Posted on February 24, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind I’d Rather Love to See You Tonight:

Dan and John Ford Coley were searching for the featured song for their new album entitled Nights are Forever. At the time of this collaboration, there was a desire within one or both to rekindle ties with a former companion. The major forms of communication back in the 1970’s was either through a phone call or writing a letter. Opting to go with calling, this sets the tone for an icebreaker to ease any tensions about meeting. I’d Really Love to See You Tonight’s realistic tone gives individuals with similar desires hope that reconnecting with an old flame is possible.

Biblical Application:

“Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. 23 “Truly[f] I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them. 24 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 11:22-25.

Exegesis of I’d Really Love to See You Tonight:

Hello, yeah, it’s been a while
Not much, how about you?
I’m not sure why I called
I guess I really just wanted to talk to you

These brothers use a generic opener to start an awkward conversation. Since this woman was on one of their minds, a chance was taken to see if meeting is possible.

And I was thinking maybe later on
We could get together for a while
It’s been such a long time
And I really do miss your smile

There is an internal desire to open up lines of communication. Feelings from the past haven’t gone away with the image of her special smile in his mind.

I’m not talking ’bout moving in
And I don’t wanna change your life
But there’s a warm wind blowing the stars around
And I’d really love to see you tonight

He is not looking to get back together or alter her current life. He just wants to meet.

We could go walking through a windy park
Or take a drive along the beach
Or stay at home and watch TV
You see, it really doesn’t matter much to me

I don’t care what we do, but I’m willing to do whatever you are comfortable with.

I’m not talking ’bout moving in
And I don’t wanna change your life
But there’s a warm wind blowing the stars around
And I’d really love to see you tonight

Seeing you in person is all that I want right now.

I won’t ask for promises
So you don’t have to lie
We’ve both played that game before
Say I love you then say goodbye

Dan doesn’t want a fake relationship or follow the bad habits of their past.

I’m not talking ’bout moving in (I’m not talking)
And I don’t wanna change your life
But there’s a warm wind blowing the stars around
And I’d really love to see you tonight (really love to see you tonight)

Do you have enough warmth in your heart to see me tonight.

I’m not talking ’bout moving in (I’m not talking)
And I don’t wanna change your life
But there’s a warm wind blowing the stars around
And I’d really love to see you tonight (really love to see you tonight)

Repeating this chorus has a way of driving home his desire to meet, giving him a second chance at love.

I’m not talking ’bout moving in (I’m not talking)
And I don’t wanna change your life
But there’s a warm wind blowing the stars around
And I’d really love to see you tonight (really love to see)

Perhaps Dan is trying to wear this woman down so that she eventually decides to meet.

Final Thoughts:

I only dated the same person twice once in my life. Meanwhile, there were a few people that I got together with one more time before going our separate ways. Reliving the past is a sign that your present relationships aren’t satisfying. Instead of turning to your past for happiness, you’re probably looking for love in the wrong place. If you want a second chance at love, this begins with forgiving others and forgetting the pain a past relationship broght you. If you are searching to fill a void in your life or the hole of unhappiness in your heart, consider turning to Jesus like the example in Matthew 11:28-30.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 23

Posted on February 23, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Can’t Help Falling in Love:

The 1784 French song Plaisir d’Amour inspired Elvis Presley to write Can’t Stop Falling in Love. Jean-Paul -Egide Martini composed Plaisir d’Amour which was written from a female’s perspective of love. The lyrics were altered by Elvis’ team to fit into the theme for the film Blue Hawaii from a male’s point of view. Can’t Stop Falling in Love has become a timeless classic, often played at weddings today.

Biblical Application:

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him, John 3:16-17.

Exegesis of Can’t Stop Falling in Love:

Wise men say
Only fools rush in
But I can’t help
Falling in love with you

The lyrics read like a poem, perhaps referring to ean-Paul -Egide Martini. Elvis is so overwhelmed by what he feels for this woman that he doesn’t care about what wise men say. He is smitten by love.

Shall I stay
Would it be a sin?
If I can’t help
Falling in love with you?

Is he thinking about staying the night? Having sex with a woman he is not married to could explain the sin comment.

Like a river flows
Surely to the sea
Darling, so it goes
Some things are meant to be

Elvis is following his heart and his instincts, not his head. He believes this relationship is meant to be.

Take my hand
Take my whole life too
For I can’t help
Falling in love with you

Elvis wants to walk hand and hand with this woman. He is considering spending the rest of his life with this woman.

Like a river flows
Surely to the sea
Darling, so it goes
Some things are meant to be

The second chorus points to certain relationships are meant to be.

Take my hand
Take my whole life too
For I can’t help
Falling in love with you

For I can’t help
Falling in love with you

Elvis has been overwhelmed by love, unable to stop his desire to fall in love with this woman.

Final Thoughts:

Can’t Stop Falling in Love was played at my daughter’s wedding last summer. Despite the slower pace of music during this time period, Elvis’ voice has the ability to keep this song relevant. In life. love takes time as two individuals come together as one, learning to share their lives. Once the emotion of a honeymoon is over, love is hard work as couples need to put the needs of their partner above themselves. During this transition, feelings will be hurt and promises broken. This is where forgiveness is essential to keep love alive. If disagreements are not addressed, the root of bitterness will drive a wedge between a couple. Forgiveness is just the first step, forgetting past transgressions is even harder. This is what you should expect the next time you fall in love.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 22: Week 4 Theme – Being Open to Forgiveness by Giving Love a Second Chance

Posted on February 22, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Against All Odds:

The lyrics of Against All Odds were spawn from Phil Collins first divorce. Serving as a theme song for the movie Against All Odds, writing this song enabled Phil to get all of his emotions, frustrations and pain out in the open. Meanwhile, the film features an aging football star hired by a mobster to find his missing girlfriend. Whether you’re talking about recovering from a messy divorce or searching a missing person, Against All Odds symbolizes triumph over adversity.

Week 4 Theme:

The final portion of love is being open to forgiveness by giving others a second chance. Whenever you enter a relationship, you never know how it is going to turn out. Unfortunately, human nature will cause individuals to disappoint, hurt and let their significant other down. The songs for this final week of February encourage their partner to give them another shot at love.

Biblical Application:

The Lord said to me, “Go, show your love to your wife again, though she is loved by another man and is an adulteress. Love her as the Lord loves the Israelites, though they turn to other gods and love the sacred raisin cakes.” 2 So I bought her for fifteen shekels[a] of silver and about a homer and a lethek[b] of barley. 3 Then I told her, “You are to live with me many days; you must not be a prostitute or be intimate with any man, and I will behave the same way toward you,” Hoshea 3:1-3.

Exegesis of Against All Odds:

How can I just let you walk away,
Just let you leave without a trace?
When I stand here taking every breath with you, ooh ooh
You’re the only one who really knew me at all

Phil felt like he had to intervene, unwilling to let his wife walk away without a fight. Phil realized that his first wife is the only woman that he has ever been with that has truly known who he is.

How can you just walk away from me
When all I can do is watch you leave?
‘Cause we’ve shared the laughter and the pain
And even shared the tears
You’re the only one who really knew me at all

Phil sees how much he has poured into this marriage. They have shared too much together to abandon this relationship without trying to salvage it.

So take a look at me now
Well there’s just an empty space
And there’s nothing left here to remind me
Just the memory of your face
Ooh, Take a look at me now
Well there’s just an empty space
And you coming back to me is against the odds
And that’s what I’ve got to face,

Living without his wife has left a hole in his heart. Despite the odds for reconciliation, Phil is still not giving up hope on his marriage.

I wish I could just make you turn around
Turn around and see me cry
There’s so much I need to say to you
So many reasons why
You’re the only one who really knew me at all

Phil wants to express to his wife how much he misses her. He has never been vulnerable like this with any other woman.

So take a look at me now
Well there’s just an empty space
And there’s nothing left here to remind me
Just the memory of your face

All that now remains from his first marriage are the memories.

Now Take a look at me now
‘Cause that’s just an empty space
But to wait for you is all I can do
And that’s what I’ve got to face

Phil is waiting for her to change her mind.

Take a good look at me now
‘Cause I’ll still be standing here
And you coming back to me is against all odds
It’s the chance I’ve got to take
Take a look at me now

Phil is willing to wait on restoration, holding out hope against all odds to get back together.

Final Thoughts:

I was listening to a couple share their 42-year journey together a few weeks ago. At one point they decided to separate for a few years. each marrying another person. Yet each still possessed feelings for one another. Once they started going to church with their children. When God changed their hearts, reconciliation was made possible. The next time you sense your chances for saving a marriage are against all odds, turn to God in prayer so that the Holy Spirit can manufacture a miracle called forgiveness.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 21

Posted on February 21, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind I Do It For You:

The inspiration behind I Do It For You was an assignment to create a theme song for the film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. When Bryan Adams and producer Matt Lange understood the theme of this movie, I Do It For You was completed in 45 minutes. The song’s success was not embraced by Hollywood, wanting to use an instrumental piece similar to the era of this film. Although I Do It For You was finally accepted as the theme song, disgruntled movie producers buried the song credits, unaware it would become a massive hit.

Biblical Application:

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity, Colossians 3:12-14.

Exegesis of I Do It For You:

Look into my eyes
You will see
What you mean to me
Search your heart
Search your soul
And when you find me there
You’ll search no more

In the context of the film, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, Robin is talking to Marian. Robin’s eyes and body language demonstrated his love for Marian.

Don’t tell me it’s not worth tryin’ for
You can’t tell me it’s not worth dyin’ for
You know it’s true
Everything I do
I do it for you

Robin is fully committed to Marian, willing to die for his love.

Look into your heart
You will find
There’s nothin’ there to hide
Take me as I am
Take my life
I would give it all
I would sacrifice

Robin is seeking a fairy tale ending of a love story that ends with them together.

Don’t tell me it’s not worth fightin’ for
I can’t help it there’s nothin’ I want more
You know it’s true
Everything I do
I do it for you

Robin is smitten with love, willing to do whatever it takes to be with the woman he loves.

There’s no love
Like your love
And no other
Could give more love
There’s nowhere
Unless you’re there
All the time
All the way, yeah

Look into your heart, baby

Robin has never met anyone like Marian. She is the love of his life.

Oh you can’t tell me it’s not worth tryin’ for
I can’t help it there’s nothin’ I want more
Yeah, I would fight for you
I lie for you
Walk the wire for you
Yeah, I’d die for you

Robin would do anything necessary to be with Marian.

You know it’s true
Everything I do
Oh
I do it for you

You are my inspiration for living.

Everything I do, darling
Yeah we’ll see it through
Well we’ll see it though, oh yeah
Yeah!
Search your heart and your soul
You can’t tell me it ain’t worth dyin’ for

Whatever we have to endure, I will be with you until the end.

I’ll be there

I’d walk the fire for you
I’d die for you

I want to make you the happiest bride on earth.

Oh, yeah

All the time
I’m going all the way, all the way

Robin loves Marian with all his heart, soul and mind.

Final Thoughts:

I was a huge Bryan Adams fan in high school. The Summer of 69 was the first song I sang at a Karaoke Bar in college. Bryan’s sound led me to a Christian group from Canada called the Kry. The Kry’s song When You Die changed the course of my life late in college after watching a shocking music video attached to this song. Whenever you begin to emulate the words from the apostle Paul in Colossians 3:12-14, you’ll slowly become love in action like Robin’s character in Prince of Thieves.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 20

Posted on February 20, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Exegesis Behind More Than A Feeling:

Tom Scholz wanted to create a song that would help him recover from a lost love in his life. Recognizing that this is a crisis that most of Boston’s fans have endured, the lyrics to More Than a Feeling serve as a form of healing and recovery. The structure of More Than a Feeling is rooted in Tom’s classical training in music and desire to blend rock with pop.

Biblical Application:

Now about your love for one another we do not need to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other. 10 And in fact, you do love all of God’s family throughout Macedonia. Yet we urge you, brothers and sisters, to do so more and more, 11 and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, 12 so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody, 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12.

Exegesis of More Than a Feeling:

I looked out this morning and the sun was gone
Turned on some music to start my day
I lost myself in a familiar song
I closed my eyes and I slipped away

Tom writes about how music can serve as a momentary distraction in life. When you’re having a bad day or feeling down, you can close your eyes to ease the pain of your current situation by being engrossed in music.

It’s more than a feeling
(More than a feeling)
When I hear that old song they used to play
(More than a feeling)
I begin dreaming
(More than a feeling)
‘Til I see Marianne walk away
I see my Marianne walkin’ away

Perhaps Tom is struggling to get over a past relationship. When he dreams of Marianne leaving, he wakes up to the pain of lost love.

So many people have come and gone
Their faces fade as the years go by
Yet I still recall as I wander on
As clear as the sun in the summer sky

Despite the many relationships Tom has had in life, nothing compares to his time with Marianne.

It’s more than a feeling
(More than a feeling)
When I hear that old song they used to play
(More than a feeling)
I begin dreaming
(More than a feeling)
‘Til I see Marianne walk away
I see my Marianne walkin’ away

A special song can bring back fond memories of your past. During difficult periods in my own life, I kept playing a specific song to get me through a tumultuous trial in life like Tom.

When I’m tired and thinking cold
I hide in my music, forget the day
And dream of a girl I used to know
I closed my eyes and she slipped away
She slipped away

Tom used the lyrics of a song to ease his broken heart. Unfortunately, after this song ended, his weary soul was front and center as his relationship with Marianne is over.

It’s more than a feeling
(More than a feeling)
When I hear that old song they used to play
(More than a feeling)
I begin dreaming
(More than a feeling)
‘Til I see Marianne walk away

The prophet Samuel revealed that music can sooth your soul, 1 Samuel 16:14-16, which is how Tom was able to recover from his failed relationship with Marianne.

Final Thoughts:

Part of growing in love is learning from past mistakes. If you don’t mature by growing in your understanding of love, you’ll keep making the same mistake over and over again. Adults must move beyond the feeling of love toward a joint partnership where your sole desire becomes loving your spouse as Christ loved the Church, Ephesians 5:25.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 19

Posted on February 19, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Love Will Keep Us Together:

Sometimes a song is meant for a specific artist before it reaches its greatest heights. Such is the case with Love Will Keep Us Together, written by Neil Sedaka and Howard Greenfield. This song was recorded by Sedaka in 1973 with mediocrity. However, when Captain and Tennille released Love Will Keep Us Together 2 years later, this song became a worldwide hit.

Biblical Application:

The end of all things is near. Therefore, be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. 8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling, 1 Peter 4:7-9.

Exegesis of Love Will Keep Us Together:

Love, love will keep us together
Think of me babe whenever
Some sweet talkin’ girl comes along, singin’ a song
Don’t mess around, you just gotta be strong

When you are on the road touring as a musician, temptations abound. Tennille is urging Captain to avoid any sexual urges that may arise with a fan or another woman.

Just stop, ’cause I really love you
Stop, I been thinkin’ of you
Look in my heart and let love keep us together

Tennille is reminding Captain of her love for him.

You (you) you belong to me now
Ain’t gonna set ya free now
When those girls start hangin’ around, talkin’ me down
Hear with your heart, and ya won’t hear a sound

Tennille appears to be the driving force that kept their marriage together for 39 years before their divorce.

Just stop (stop, stop) ’cause I really love you (really love you)
Stop (stop, stop) I been thinkin’ of you (been thinkin’ of you)
Look in my heart and let love keep us together
Whatever

Tennille fought for her husband to keep their marriage alive.

Young and beautiful
But someday your looks’ll be gone
When the others turn you off
Who’ll be turnin’ you on
I will, I will, I will, I will be there to share forever

Don’t fall for good looking woman as they too will age.

Love will keep us together
I said it before and I’ll say it again, while others pretend
I need ya now, and I need ya then

Love was the driving force of their marriage.

Just stop (stop) ’cause I really love you (really love you)
Stop, I been thinkin’ of you
Look in my heart and let love keep us together
Whatever (a-ba-da whatever)

Some people are less disciplined than others. Therefore, it’s important to place guard rails in a relationship to avoid having someone else interfere with your marriage.

I will (ever), I will (ever), I will (ever), I will
Ah-da-da-da-da
Da-da-da-da
Da-da-da-da

Tennille appears to be a living example of love.

You better stop (stop) ’cause I really love you (really love you)
Stop (stop) I been thinkin’ of you
Look in my heart and let love keep us together
Whatever (a-ba-da whatever)

Focus on love, not fleshly and lustful desires.

I will (ever), I will (ever), I will (ever), I will
Ah-da-da-da-da
Da-da-da-da
Da-da-da-da

Develop a will to love your spouse.

Final Thoughts:

Compared to many famous couples, Captain and Tennille stayed married for nearly 4 decades. Due to Daryl’s health problems, this couple split 5 years before Daryl Dragon’s death, aka Captain. May this story inspire you to keep love at the heart of your marriage so that you endure whatever trials that you face together.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 18

Posted on February 18, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Always and Forever:

Members of the Heatwave wanted to create a love song that would stand the test of time to make their mark in music history. The initial goal was to compose a ballad with the emotions of devotion and commitment. Song writer Rod Temperton captured this vision within the lyrics of Always and Forever. Decades after Always and Forever was first released; my high school made this our theme song for Concord’s senior prom.

Biblical Application:

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. 7 And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I am telling the truth, I am not lying—and a true and faithful teacher of the Gentiles, 1 Timothy 2:1-7.

Exegesis of Always and Forever:

Always and forever, each moment with you
Is just like a dream to me that somehow came true
And I know tomorrow will still be the same
‘Cause we’ve got a life of love that won’t ever change and

Rod is envisioning the ideal relationship; something out of a dream. While skeptics may claim this is too good to be true, Rod has a strong belief that this relationship will continue to grow, lasting a lifetime.

Everyday love me your own special way
Melt all my heart away with a smile
Take time to tell me you really care
And we’ll share tomorrow together
(Always forever love you)
And I’ll always love you forever
(Always forever love you) Forever

This opening chorus sounds like a prayer to be adorned, loved and appreciated. Deep down in his heart, Rod believes that this is the woman for me.

There’ll always be sunshine when I look at you
It’s something I can’t explain just the things that you do
But if you get lonely phone me and take
A second to give to me that magic you make and

Rod is singing about a love that never gets old as it appears that this couple continues to study one another, becoming more intimate as they grow old together.

Everyday love me your own special way
Melt all my heart away with a smile
Take time to tell me you really care
And we’ll share tomorrow together
(Always forever love you)
I’ll always love you ever
(Always forever love you) and ever

Rod sings about a relationship void of doubt or jealousy. Breaking up isn’t even a distant thought.

Loving you (Always forever love you) is the thing that I’ve planned
For a very long time (Always forever love you)
Me with you, you with me, we as one
Love together (Always forever love you) for a very long time
Loving you

The planned comment at the beginning of this stanza suggests a shared vision to be married for a lifetime.

Always, forever love you
Always, forever love you
Ever, forever
Forever, ever
Ever
Forever loving you, loving you

This vision has created a special bond and will to love one another forever, till death do us part.

I said, “Forever love you, love you”
Forever (Always forever love you)
Forever

These lyrics express a type of marriage that God intended human beings to enter into.

Final Thoughts:

Learning to dance as a sophomore in high school was like breaking a chain of depression that consumed my life. While I experienced more pain in my initial high school relationships by being dumped, dancing freed me from being the shy boy sitting in a chair watching everyone else dance. Subsequently, when ballads like Always and Forever cleared the dance floor for couples, I eventually overcome my fear of stuttering to ask girls to a slow dance. Always and Forever bring back fond memories of high school, especially the friends that I still hold dear.

by Jay Mankus

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