Tag Archives: music

The Message Behind the Music-October 6

Posted on October 6, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Beyoncé – Haunted (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind Haunted:

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

Biblical Application:

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

Exegesis of Haunted:

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

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

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

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

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

What happens to the spirits of individuals after this pass.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts:

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

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 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

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The Message Behind the Music-October 4

Posted on October 4, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Ray Parker Jr. – Ghostbusters (Official HD Video)

Inspiration Behind Ghostbusters:

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

Biblical Application:

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

Exegesis of Ghostbusters:

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

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

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

This team investigates this matter for you.

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

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

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

The Ghostbusters handle entities and spirts as well.

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

This song is like an infomercial for Ghostbusters.

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

Who ya gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

When you are afraid, call the Ghostbusters.

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

Scenarios of when to call.

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

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

Who you gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

Self-promotion.

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

Another possible encounter.

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

Capturing ghosts is an adrenaline rush.

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

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

When self-talk doesn’t work, call.

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

Another scenario to watch out for.

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

Another call to action.

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

A subliminal message in your mind.

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

Last second plea to call.

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

Final promo.

Final Thoughts:

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

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 30

Posted on September 30, 2026 by expressyourself4him

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

Inspiration Behind Wake Me Up When September Ends:

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

Biblical Application:

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

Exegesis of Wake Me Up When September Ends:

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

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

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

Referring to the anniversary of his father’s death.

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

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

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

September brought a heaviness upon Billie Joe’s heart.

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

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

Ring out the bells again

Perhaps church bells from the funeral.

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

Billie Joe took his father’s death hard.

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

Something that never seemed to go away.

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

Billie misses his father.

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

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

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

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

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

Billie Joe wishes he could skip September every year.

Final Thoughts:

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

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 28

Posted on September 28, 2026 by expressyourself4him

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

Inspiration Behind When Doves Cry:

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

Biblical Application:

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

Exegesis of When Doves Cry:

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

Initial preparations to sing.

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

Transition.

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

Prince is still trying to grasp what went wrong.

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

A way for Prince to express his pain and sadness.

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

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

Final Thoughts:

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

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 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

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The Message Behind the Music-September 24

Posted on September 24, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Owl City & Carly Rae Jepsen – Good Time

Inspiration Behind Good Time:

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

Biblical Application:

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

Exegesis of Good Time:

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

Setting a positive tone for this moment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This mindset became reality.

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

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

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

This is the pattern for someone living for the nightlife.

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

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

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

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

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

This mindset becomes a reality.

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

Keeping up the energy on the dance floor.

Final Thoughts:

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

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 18

Posted on September 18, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Play The Game Tonight

Inspiration Behind Play the Game Tonight:

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

Biblical Application:

If I speak in the tongues[a] of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast,[b] but do not have love, I gain nothing, 1 Corinthians 13:1-3.

Exegesis of Play the Game Tonight:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Put on a good show to please your fans.

Final Thoughts:

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

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 17

Posted on September 17, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Secondhand Serenade – Fall For You

Inspiration Behind Fall for You:

While enduring personal turmoil in 2007, John Vesely began to write Fall for You.  This was the first song John composed entirely on piano during a practice session as the emotions of his pain naturally flowed out of him. Fall for You is a plea from one partner to the other to open their heart fall in love again. Fall for You reflects the emotional arc of a relationship slowly deteriorating to the point where it feels impossible to save.

Biblical Application:

The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? 10 “I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.” – Jeremiah 17:9-10

Exegesis of Fall for You:

The best thing ’bout tonight’s that we’re not fighting
Could it be that we have been this way before?
I know you don’t think that I am trying
I know you’re wearing thin, down to the core

Pointing out something positive. When was the last time this happened. John wasn’t showing that he cared enough. Mainly due to both are on edge, emotionally wore down.

But hold your breath
Because tonight will be the night that I will fall for you, over again
Don’t make me change my mind
Or I won’t live to see another day, I swear it’s true
Because a girl like you is impossible to find
You’re impossible to find

This stanza serves as a prayer request, wanting to reignite the love in this relationship. John realizes that finding someone like her will be extremely difficult so he’s trying his hardest to salvage love.

This is not what I intended
I always swore to you I’d never fall apart
You always thought that I was stronger
I may have failed, but I have loved you from the start

John admits to his shortcomings, failing to remain strong.

Oh, but hold your breath
Because tonight will be the night that I will fall for you, over again
Don’t make me change my mind
Or I won’t live to see another day, I swear it’s true
Because a girl like you is impossible to find

It’s impossible

The chorus is repeated, wanting desperately to fall in love again. Asking his significant other not to change his mind.

So breathe in so deep
Breathe me in, I’m yours to keep
And hold on to your words ’cause talk is cheap
And remember me tonight when you’re asleep

Words are meaningless unless backed up by actions.

Because tonight will be the night that I will fall for you, over again
Don’t make me change my mind
Or I won’t live to see another day, I swear it’s true
Because a girl like you is impossible to find

A last-ditch effort to save this relationship.

Tonight will be the night that I will fall for you, over again
Don’t make me change my mind
Or I won’t live to see another day, I swear it’s true
Because a girl like you is impossible to find
You’re impossible to find

Hoping to speak this into existence, falling back in love all over again.

Final Thoughts:

I endured my gut-wrenching relationships in college. Like John, each of these relationships wore me down. All 3 of these made me only want to date women who I could see myself marrying. Subsequently, I became guarded, getting to know people as friends rather than jump into a new relationship. Unfortunately, once a person makes up their mind to give up on a relationship, there isn’t much that you can do salvage love.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-September 16

Posted on September 16, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Simple Minds – Don’t You (Forget About Me)

Inspiration Behind Don’t You Forget About Me:

Keith Forsey and guitarist Steve Schiff wrote Don’t You Forget About Me for the film The Breakfast Club. This film features five high school students, punished for an entire Saturday. Each of these 5 teenagers representing a distinct social group: the brain, athlete, rebel, princess, and basket case. After this motley crew experiences a unifying moment before departing for home, Don’t You Forget About Me serves as an anthem for students to never forget the special ties that were formed during a Saturday in-school suspension.

Biblical Application:

At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, Titus 3:3-5.

Exegesis of Don’t You Forget About Me:

Hey, hey, hey, hey
Ooh-ooh-hoo, woah

An attention getter.

Won’t you come see about me
I’ll be alone, dancing, you know it, baby
Tell me your troubles and doubts
Givin’ me everything inside and out, and

Breaking down the walls that separate the social classes. A call to open up, share and become vulnerable.

Love’s strange, surreal in the dark
Think of the tender things that we were working on
Slow change may pull us apart
When the light gets into your heart, baby

Perhaps a reference that teenagers place too much emphasis on physical appearances rather than what is deep inside of human beings. When your flaws are exposed or verbalized, love can be scary, unsure if the one you love will accept you for who you are as a person.

Don’t you forget about me
Don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t
Don’t you forget about me

A reference to the friendship made on this Saturday. Being willing to cross social boundaries.

Will you stand above me
Look my way, never love me
Rain keeps fallin’, rain keeps fallin’
Down, down, down

A call to stand up and be willing to look beyond differences. The rain suggests cleansing and purifying, erasing the stereotypes that minds have grown up believing.

Will you recognize me
Call my name or walk on by?
Rain keeps fallin’, rain keeps fallin’
Down, down, down, down

When Monday comes and you fall back into line, within your social group, will you be changed or will you forget the new friends that you just made.

Hey, hey, hey, hey
Ooh-ooh-hoo, woah

How will you respond to peer pressure.

Don’t you try and pretend
It’s my feeling, we’ll win in the end
I won’t harm you or touch your defences
Vanity, insecurity, ah

The difficulties to truly change. A gentle approach, not wanting to harm this new relationship.

Don’t you forget about me
I’ll be alone, dancing, you know it, baby
Going to take us apart
I’ll put us back together at heart, baby

Not part of the movie, but a call to remember what we shared.

Don’t you forget about me
Don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t
Don’t you forget about me

Be open to change, going outside your social circle.

As you walk on by
Will you call my name?
As you walk on by
Will you call my name
When you walk away?

What is going to happen on Monday when these 5 people see each other in the hallway with their friends.

Or will you walk away?

When you walk on by

Will you take a chance or succumb to peer pressure.

Come on, call my name
Won’t you call my name?

Do you have the guts to go beyond the social norms of your friends.

I sing, “La, la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la, la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la, la-la-la-la
La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la”
When you walk on by (walk on by)
And you call my name

A fun ending with one last rhetorical question, will you call out my name.

Final Thoughts:

As a former high school athlete, my friends would vary from season to season. In the fall, my cross-country team would take up 1-2 tables in the lunchroom. This team was like my second family, having monthly social functions outside of school as well. Each winter, swimming was a smaller team so that my lunches were a mix of classmates and swimmers. In the spring, I hung out with Chris and Steve, often getting out of school early for away golf matches. While I was never popular in high school, I wasn;t afraid to sit with someone sitting by themselves. In my final year of high school, I saw lunch as a ministry opportunity to encourage students who were having a bad day, week or month. Don’t You Forget About Me serves as a call to look beyond social circles to meet other people that you never gave a thought about until watching the Breakfast Club.

by Jay Mankus

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