Tag Archives: music

The Message Behind the Music-February 9

Posted on February 9, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind I Just Called to Say I Love You:

Stevie Wonder’s mother had a huge influence on his life. Subsequently, when Lula Mae encouraged Stevie to call her more often, this conversation inspired the lyrics to I Just Called to Say I Love You. This song serves as a tribute to Stevie’s mother, informing his fans of her devotion and love. the lyrics remind individuals to remember your mom on special days throughout the year.

Biblical Application:

After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. 2 From that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return home to his family. 3 And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. 4 Jonathan took off the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his tunic, and even his sword, his bow and his belt, 1 Samuel 18:1-4.

Exegesis of I Just Called to Say I Love You:

No New Year’s Day to celebrate
No chocolate covered candy hearts to give away
No first of Spring, no song to sing
In fact, here’s just another ordinary day

Stevie opens with times of the year where you want to be with someone. Either Stevie is depressed about being alone and blind or simply encouraging you can reach out to the one’s you care about on any ordinary day.

No April rain, no flowers bloom
No wedding Saturday within the month of June
But what it is, is something true
Made up of these three words that I must say to you

As Stevie goes through a typically calendar year, he is thinking about a heart-felt and simply way to express how you feel about someone.

I just called to say I love you
I just called to say how much I care
I just called to say I love you
And I mean it from the bottom of my heart

I love you are the 3 words Stevie is alluding to. This isn’t meant as a form of flattery or trying to warm someone up to get what you want in return. Rather, for Stevie, this is a way to let an individual know that you care.

No summer’s high, no warm July
No harvest moon to light one tender August night
No autumn breeze, no falling leaves
Not even time for birds to fly to southern skies

Stevie uses imagery associated with the summer and fall as another opportunity to pick up the phone and thank your mother for all that she has done for you in life.

No Libra sun, no Halloween
No giving thanks to all the Christmas joy you bring
But what it is, though old, so new
To fill your heart like no three words could ever do

A simple affirmation, encouraging comment or uplifting word can make the difference between a good and bad day at work.

I just called to say I love you
I just called to say how much I care, I do
I just called to say I love you
And I mean it from the bottom of my heart

While comments like I love you are usually saved for family, close friends like David and Jonathan in the Bible weren’t afraid to express how they felt about one another.

I just called to say I love you
I just called to say how much I care, I do
I just called to say I love you
And I mean it from the bottom of my heart

Of my heart
Of my heart

Be a messenger of hope, joy and love.

No New Year’s Day to celebrate
No chocolate covered candy hearts to give away
But what it is, is something true
Made up of these three words that I must say to you

Don’t let another year go by without telling special people in your life how much they mean to you.

I just called to say I love you
I just called to say how much I care
I just called to say I love you
And I mean it from the bottom of my heart

You don’t have to be eloquent. Simply express your love for others.

I just called to say I love you
I just called to say how much I care, I do
I just called to say I love you
And I mean it from the bottom of my heart

Of my heart
Of my heart (baby, of my heart)

According to King Solomon, the human heart is the well spring of life. When you guard and protect your heart, you’ll be able to freely express your love to others throughout the year.

Final Thoughts:

When I was in college, I decided to stay over a friend’s house who lived close to work. When I made this decision, it was 2AM in the morning, before cell phones and sending texts. This failure to communicate led my mom to think something horrible happened to me, worrying her to death. This is one of the worst days of my life, vowing to call in the middle of the night going forward. Mom’s want to know that you’re doing okay.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 8: Theme for Week 2-Learning to Love

Posted on February 8, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind I Want to Know What Love Is:

The song I Want to Know What Love Is stems from the personal experiences in the life of Mick Jones as he searched for true love. As Mick reflected upon failed relationships from his past, the lyrics convey his journey to grow in his understanding of love. Former emotional connections and internal struggles served as a blueprint for these lyrics. During the initial recording of I Want to Know What Love Is, a gospel choir was added to provide a spiritual dynamic to this classic ballad.

Week 2 Theme:

Learning to love is conceived by a sense of desperation where you are trying to save a special relationship. This process includes being open to change, curious and eager to love your significant other. Instead of limiting your relationship to the physical, growing in love requires studying your partner to build communication intimacy.

Biblical Application:

This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. 14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 15 If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. 16 And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. 17 This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. 18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love, 1 John 4:13-18.

Exegesis of I Want to Know What Love Is:

I gotta take a little time
A little time to think things over
I better read between the lines
In case I need it when I’m older

Mick is trying to learn from his previous mistakes in life. Instead of rushing into a new relationship, Mick needs some time to heal, to figure out what went wrong so he avoids making the same mistake in the future.

Aha

This mountain I must climb
Feels like a world upon my shoulders
Through the clouds I see love shine
It keeps me warm as life grows colder

Broken relationship often leads to soul searching, recovering from the pit of despair. This mountain is symbolic of growing up to reach new heights in life. This climb isn’t easy, but if you stick with it, you’ll be rewarded with glimpses of love. The hope of love kept Mick going in life, even when those around him were full of callous and cold hearts.

In my life there’s been heartache and pain
I don’t know if I can face it again
Can’t stop now, I’ve traveled so far
To change this lonely life

Intimate relationships can take an emotional toll on you. Sometimes the pain is so great that you don’t know if you will be able to carry on. Yet if you want to complete your quest for love by escaping loneliness, you must press on.

I wanna know what love is
I want you to show me
I wanna feel what love is
I know you can show me

Either Mick is crying out to God in prayer to better understand love or he is entering a new relationship and is open to being taught what love is. Please show me.

Yeah
Gotta take a little time
A little time to look around me
I’ve got nowhere left to hide
It looks like love has finally found me

Mick’s journey for real love is standing in front of him. Instead of being afraid to fall in love, being vulnerable is where love can be conceived.

In my life there’s been heartache and pain
I don’t know if I can face it again
Can’t stop now, I’ve traveled so far
To change this lonely life

Mick appears to come to a point in his life where he is ready to face his fears of having his heart broken again.

I wanna know what love is
I want you to show me
I wanna feel what love is
I know you can show me

Although Mick still isn’t sure about love, he is open and teachable.

I wanna know what love is (I wanna know)
I want you to show me (I wanna feel)
And I wanna feel, I want to feel what love is
(I know and I know and I know)
And I know, I know you can show me

This certainty about his new girlfriend is a sign that she has demonstrated love to Mick in the early stages of their relationship.

Let’s talk about love
I wanna know what love is, love that you feel inside
I want you to show me, and I’m feeling so much love
I wanna feel what love is, and you know, you just cannot hide
I know you can show me, yeah

Mick wants to learn what love is so that he can begin living this out.

I wanna know what love is
I know you can show me
I wanna feel, I wanna feel what love is
And I know, you just can’t hide
I know you can show me

Mick is making progress as he is growing in love in this new relationship.

Final Thoughts:

All relationships that I have been in come to a crossroads where effort and time by both parties are necessary. Like Mick, in my younger years, I had no clue what love was which led to their demise. As I grew in my Christian faith in college, I began to see subtle changes as I made Jesus the Lord of my life. Like the words of 1 John 4, when glimpses of the Holy Spirit shine through, you become a vessel of love. Although this search for love should never end, take one day at a time, praying that you become an advocate of love.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 5

Posted on February 5, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling

You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling is a classic ballad sung by numerous artists over the past 70 years. However, the original version was written by a trio of songwriters: Barry Mann, Cynthia Weil and Phil Spector. The lyrics struck a chord with anyone who has experienced the pain of lost love. The writers point to signs where intimacy starts to fade away such as “you never close your eyes anymore when I kiss your lips.” The lyrics also serve as a warning to those blinded by love with a message love doesn’t always last.

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 You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling:

You never close your eyes anymore when I kiss your lips
And there’s no tenderness like before in your fingertips
You’re trying hard not to show it (baby)
But baby, baby I know it

The passion of this relationship is starting to wear off. This initial excitement is fading away. Either the spark has dimmed or this relationship is becoming stale.

You’ve lost that lovin’ feelin’
Whoa, that lovin’ feelin’
You’ve lost that lovin’ feelin’
Now it’s gone, gone, gone

What has changed? Is their love just a feeling? Whatever happened, it is now noticeable.

Now there’s no welcome look in your eyes when I reach for you

The body language shows some type of disinterest.

And now your’re starting to critisize little things I do
It makes me just feel like crying (baby)
‘Cause baby, somethin’ beautiful’s dyin’

When inirial feelings of love start to fade, you become who you truly are. The gentle spirit and kindness vanishes, treating your significant other like everyone else.

You lost that lovin’ feelin’
Whoa, that lovin’ feelin’
You’ve lost that lovin’ feelin’
Now it’s gone, gone, gone

Now that love is starting to slip away, what can be done to save your relationship?

Baby, baby, I get down on my knees for you

The man is trying to win back his love, begging and humbling himself.

If you would only love me like you used to do, yeah
We had a love… a love… a love you don’t find everyday
So don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t let it slip away

I thought we had something special, what went wrong? The man is willing to do whatever it takes to save this relationship.

Baby (baby), baby (baby)
I beg you please (please), please (please)
I need your love (I need your love), I need your love (I need your love)
So bring it on back (so bring it on back), bring it on back (so bring it on back)
Bring back that lovin’ feelin’
Whoa, that lovin’ feelin’

Remember what we had? Please come back to how this all started. Ignite the flame which brought us together.

Bring back that lovin’ feelin’
‘Cause it’s gone, gone, gone
And I can’t go on
Woooo

This stanza serves as a call to action. Hoping to regain what they had.

Bring back that lovin’ feelin’
Whoa, that lovin’ feelin’
Bring back that lovin’ feelin’
‘Cause it’s gone, gone

A plea for love, think about what made us a great couple.

Final Thoughts:

I normally played the role of the desperate partner, trying to hold on to the past. This is where love becomes a will, not just a feeling. When two people have a resolve to endure whatever trials they may face, relationships are salvageable. Unfortunately, when one person starts to experience the worse portion of a vow, most bail, giving up on love. This is when hearts and minds must press on, taking negative thought captive, 2 Corinthians 10:4-6 so that love endures.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 31

Posted on January 31, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind I Love Rock N’ Roll:

The inspiration behind Joan Jett’s song is an evolution of artists who sought to compose a rock song that would stand the test of time. This quest began with the Rolling Stones song “It’s Only Rock ‘N’ Roll (But I Like It). Upon hearing this, The Arrows lead singer Alan Merrill was inspired to create a modern equivalent. This spawned I Love Rock N’ Roll which Joan Jett made famous.

Biblical Application:

Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. 18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Ephesians 5:15-20.

Exegesis of I Love Rock N’ Roll:

I saw him dancin’ there by the record machine
I knew he must’ve been about 17
The beat was goin’ strong
Playin’ my favorite song

The opening stanza takes listeners b ack to a time period when diners and restaurants either had a jukebox per booth or a large one where music could be played while you were waiting for your food to arrive. Joan observes a teenager dancing next to a jukebox. The selected song had a great beat and was Joan’s favorite song.

And I could tell it wouldn’t be long
‘Til he was with me, yeah, me
And I could tell it wouldn’t be long
‘Til he was with me, yeah, me, singin’

Whether this was love at first sight or two fans coming together to celebrate their favorite song, Joan had a feeling that they would soon be together singing on the dance floor.

“I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with me”
Ow!

Before apps, computers, and music devices, teenagers gathered around a radio listening to their local station, waiting to hear their new favorite song. Back in the early 1980’s, the only way to hear an entire album was go to the mall to purchase a tape cassette or vinyl record. The less a song was played, the more excited you were to hear it once your radio station played it. The jukebox was the social center of an establishment. Hit songs were played over and over again.

He smiled, so I got up and asked for his name
“That don’t matter”, he said, “‘Cause it’s all the same”
Said, “Can I take you home where we can be alone?”

Normally, guys would wait for a slow song before asking a girl to dance. However, in this case, the bond for music created an instant connection between these two.

And next, we were movin’ on, he was with me, yeah, me
Next, we were movin’ on, he was with me, yeah, me, singin’

Joan’s dream came true, now a couple thanks to a common interest in the same artist.

“I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with me”
Ow!

Music is a way to celebrate life.

Said, “Can I take you home where we can be alone?

Next, we were movin’ on, he was with me, yeah, me
And we’ll be movin’ on and singin’ that same old song
Yeah, with me, singin’

Love and relationships can happen fast when you share a common interest.

“I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with me”

Music can unite people.

I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with-

This repetitive chorus encourages listeners to dance.

I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with-

I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with-

There was a time when local high schools had a dance every month. These events were like scenes from Footloose as teenagers express their individuality through dancing. Dancing alone is awkward, but when you are with someone else it’s easier to stay on beat and get in a groove.

I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with me

Joan sings about a time in America that doesn’t exist anymore as teenagers are too distracted by their phones and social media. Social interaction has been lost and stunted due to the lack of hangouts that exist centered around music.

Final Thoughts:

I was an extremely shy teenager until I went to my first high school dance as a sophomore. Although I didn’t know what I was doing, I tried to emulate my cross-country teammates. Once I learned how to dance by developing my own unique moves, I became confident like Joan, seeing myself with someone I liked, no longer afraid to ask a girl to dance during a ballad.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 30

Posted on January 30, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Smells Like Teen Spirit:

You don’t see many hit songs inspired by a graffiti message. Yet, when friend Kathleen Hanna of Bikini Kill wrote Kurt smells like teen spirit on a wall, a title for a new song was conceived. Since Kurt Cobain had never heard of the deodorant, he interpreted this slogan as connecting with teenagers like a squad of cheerleaders firing up a home crowd. As for the composition of Smells Like Teen Spirit, Kurt wanted to replicate a tune with pop sensibility similar to the Pixie’s. When these 2 ideas were merged together, an iconic song was created.

Biblical Application:

 “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. 13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. 14 He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. 15 All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you,” John 16:12-15.

Exegesis of Smells Like Teen Spirit:

Load up on guns, bring your friends
It’s fun to lose and to pretend
She’s over-bored and self-assured
Oh no, I know a dirty word

Either Kurt is referring to Gaming or playing paint ball with friends. Depending upon how competitive people are, this can be a fun activity. Yet, in every crowd, someone present isn’t excited, loses focus and becomes self-absorbed. Kurt wants to use a curse word to address her.

Hello, hello, hello, how low
Hello, hello, hello, how low
Hello, hello, hello, how low
Hello, hello, hello

Instead, Kurt introduces himself.

With the lights out, it’s less dangerous
Here we are now, entertain us
I feel stupid and contagious
Here we are now, entertain us
A mulatto, an albino
A mosquito, my libido

Either Kurt is on stage performing for a live audience or he is thinking about individuals who have a short attention span, needing to be always entertained.

Yeah, hey, yay

I’m worse at what I do best
And for this gift, I feel blessed
Our little group has always been
And always will until the end

Kurt appears to be singing about his life as a rock star. Despite being blessed as a skilled musician, there are certain aspects of being famous and or on tour that he detests. Maybe this was Kurt’s way of telling his fans that I’m not as happy as I look. In fact, I’m contemplating killing myself.

Hello, hello, hello, how low
Hello, hello, hello, how low
Hello, hello, hello, how low
Hello, hello, hello

Hello, could be used as an introduction after the opening song of a concert.

With the lights out, it’s less dangerous
Here we are now, entertain us
I feel stupid and contagious
Here we are now, entertain us
A mulatto, an albino
A mosquito, my libido

Trying to excite a crowd can get old. When high school cheerleaders are trying to get a student body revved up for a team that hasn’t won a game all season, fans can lose interest quickly.

Yeah, hey, yay

And I forget just why I taste
Oh yeah, I guess it makes me smile
I found it hard, it’s hard to find
Oh well, whatever, never mind

I’m not sure if Kurt is singing about the thunder of applause or what he smells like om stage.

Hello, hello, hello, how low
Hello, hello, hello, how low
Hello, hello, hello, how low
Hello, hello, hello

A superficial greeting.

With the lights out, it’s less dangerous
Here we are now, entertain us
I feel stupid and contagious
Here we are now, entertain us
A mulatto, an albino
A mosquito, my libido

Seems like the life Kurt was living prior to his suicide in 1994 sucked the joy out of his soul. Apparently, Kurt didn’t have anyone to save him from himself.

A denial, a denial
A denial, a denial
A denial, a denial
A denial, a denial
A denial

This denial is either referring to people that can’t entertain themselves or that he wanted to live a more private and quieter life when Kurt wasn’t on stage.

Final Thoughts:

As I start my 15th year of writing Express Yourself 4Him on February 4th, I’ve learned that when you begin a new format like the Message Behind the Music, you’ll run into unforeseen problems. My initial goal for 2026 was to identify a theme within a former hit song, then add a passage from the Bible addressing this specific theme. However, as I have rushed to cover some of the top songs of all time from iconic artists and bands, lyrics can be bland, bizarre and or shallow. Subsequently, going forward starting in February and carrying on for the final 11 months of 2026, songs will be selected based upon the content, depth and quality of their lyrics.

As for Smells Like Teen Spirit and Kurt Cobain, I lost 2 friends to suicide in high school. One I grew up playing baseball with and the other was a swimming teammate. Both suicides caught me by surprise. Since musicians can hide behind their music, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings by reaching out to friends and individuals who don’t look like themselves. This simple intervention can be the difference between life and death. Smells Like Teen Spirit has an incredible beat, rhythm and sound, but the lyrics don’t do anything for me.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 29

Posted on January 29, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Bohemian Rhapsody:

The composition of Bohemian Rhapsody is more like a journey to write a book. Freddie Mercury started putting fragments of this song together in the 1960’s as a student at Ealing Art School. The initial goal was to blend opera with rock. Freddie collected pages like sticky notes, enough to write 3 different songs. Finally, Queen spent weeks perfecting this in 1975, deciding to make one long song instead of 3 shorts ones.

Biblical Application:

And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. 4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, 2 Corinthians 4:3-4.

Exegesis of Bohemian Rhapsody:

Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?
Caught in a landslide, no escape from reality
Open your eyes, look up to the skies and see
I’m just a poor boy (ooh, poor boy), I need no sympathy
Because I’m easy come, easy go, little high, little low
Any way the wind blows doesn’t really matter to me, to me

Freddie doesn’t seem to be pleased with where he ended up in life. Perhaps, he expected to be much more successful and wealthier. However, don’t feel bad as his life is flexible, coming and going.

Mama, just killed a man
Put a gun against his head, pulled my trigger, now he’s dead
Mama, life had just begun
But now I’ve gone and thrown it all away
Mama, ooh, didn’t mean to make you cry
If I’m not back again this time tomorrow
Carry on, carry on as if nothing really matters

Either Freddie just watched his mother kill a man or it’s here for dramatic purposes. Freddie blames himself for this happening, throwing his life away. Freddie feels like he let his mother down. If he doesn’t return, Freddie wants his mom to carry on with her life.

Too late, my time has come
Sends shivers down my spine, body’s aching all the time
Goodbye everybody, I’ve got to go
Gotta leave you all behind, and face the truth
Mama, ooh (any way the wind blows)
I don’t wanna die
I sometimes wish I’d never been born at all

Freddie is overcome by depression. This stanza suggests Freddie is going to jail or simply has to leave his family behind. This stressful situation makes Freddie wish that he’d never been born.

I see a little silhouetto of a man
Scaramouche, Scaramouche, will you do the Fandango?
Thunderbolt and lightning, very, very frightening me
(Galileo) Galileo (Galileo), Galileo, Galileo Figaro, magnifico
I’m just a poor boy, nobody loves me
(He’s just a poor boy from a poor family)
(Spare him his life from this monstrosity)

Freddie is either singing about himself or somebody he knows well. A poor boy who nobody loves.

Easy come, easy go, will you let me go?
Bismillah! No, we will not let you go (let him go)
Bismillah! We will not let you go (let him go)
Bismillah! We will not let you go (let me go)
Will not let you go (let me go)
Will not let you go, never, never, never (let me go)
No, no, no, no, no, no, no

Freddie cries out to Allah when he can’t escape.

Oh, mamma mia, mamma mia
Mamma mia, let me go
Beelzebub has a devil put aside for me, for me, for me

Freddie blames his current spiritual condition on demonic forces placed upon him by the Devil.

So you think you can stone me and spit in my eye?
So you think you can love me and leave me to die?
Oh, baby, can’t do this to me, baby
Just gotta get out, just gotta get right outta here

Freddie is questioning his accuser.

Ooh
Ooh, yeah, ooh, yeah

Nothing really matters, anyone can see
Nothing really matters
Nothing really matters to me

Freddie has become apathetic due to his current situation.

Any way the wind blows

The lyrics end with an ode to Kansas, touching on dust in the wind.

Final Thoughts:

When you are trying to follow an Oprah for the first time, it’s hard to fully comprehend. This Bohemian Rhapsody is like a modern-day Greek tragedy. Compositions like this make me reach for a higher power to understand the meaning of life. Yet, as the words of the apostle Paul reveals in a letter to the Church of Corinth, the god of this age has blinded the minds of countless lost souls, unable to see the truth of Romans 10:9-11. May today’s blog lead you toward eternal life.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 28

Posted on January 28, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Sweet Child of Mine:

During a jam session at Guns N Roses’ home in Los Angeles, guitarist Slash began playing a circus melody. While this melody was initially dismissed, Axl Rose and his girlfriend at the time Erin, co-wrote the lyrics to Sweet Child of Mine. As these two reminisced about their childhood, Slash’s circus melody seemed to make a perfect match.

Biblical Application:

In the paths of the wicked are snares and pitfalls, but those who would preserve their life stay far from them. 6 Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it, Proverbs 22:5-6.

Exegesis of Sweet Child of Mine:

She’s got a smile that it seems to me
Reminds me of childhood memories
Where everything was as fresh
As the bright blue sky

The newness of Axl’s relationship with Erin reminded him of simpler times living as a child.

Now and then when I see her face
She takes me away to that special place
And if I stared too long
I’d probably break down and cry

Axl was in a great place in life after meeting Erin. He feels blessed and fortunate.

Whoa, oh-oh
Sweet child o’ mine
Whoa, oh-oh-oh
Sweet love of mine

Either Erin is younger or pictures of her as a child who makes Axl feel special.

She’s got eyes of the bluest skies
As if they thought of rain
I’d hate to look into those eyes
And see an ounce of pain

Axl is scared of hurting Erin, overwhelmed by the beauty of her eyes.

Her hair reminds me of a warm, safe place
Where as a child I’d hide
And pray for the thunder and the rain
To quietly pass me by

Erin must be a beautiful woman. Being with her has become Axl’s happy place.

Whoa, oh-oh
Sweet child of mine
Whoa-whoa, oh-oh, oh-oh
Sweet love of mine

The chorus reflects the happiness within Axl’s heart.

Whoa, oh-oh, yeah
Whoa, oh-oh-oh, sweet child of mine
Whoa-oh, whoa-oh, sweet love of mine
Whoa, oh-oh-oh, sweet child of mine, ooh, yeah
Ooh-ooh, sweet love of mine

This extended chorus reinforces Axl’s gratitude.

Where do we go? Where do we go now?
Where do we go? Mm-mm, oh
Where do we go? Where do we go now?
Oh, where do we go now?
Where do we go? (Sweet child)
Mm-huh, where do we go now?

This stanza suggests uncertainty in their relationship. What’s the next step? Was Axl considering marriage? At some point, there is a desire to take this relationship deeper, to the next level.

(Where do we go?) Ah-yah-yah-yah-yah-yah-yah-yah-oh
(Where do we go?)
Ooh, where do we go now? (Where do we go?)
Uh-uh-uh, uh-uh-uh-oh

There is uncertainty, a cause for concern.

Where do we go?
Oh-oh, where do we go now?
Oh, where do we go?
Where do we go now?

The more you think about something, the more stressful it becomes.

Where do we go?
Whoa-oh, where do we go now?
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, sweet child
Sweet child of mine

The conclusion opens the door for either a joint decision to move on or end this relationship.

Final Thoughts:

Depending upon your childhood, you either have fond memories or you’re glad to be an adult. Since life is full of distractions, there is always something or someone pulling you away from the people you love. Relationships can be exhausting. Yet, if you have the will to love and God is the center of your relationship, you have a better chance to stick with it for better or for worse.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 27

Posted on January 27, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Back in Black:

I grew up in a time when conversative leaders began to correlate rock music with worshipping the Devil. While this genre of music does encourage a rebellious spirit, not every rock song is evil. Back in Black was conceived following the death of AC/DC’s lead singer Bon Scott. The lyrics reflect Scott’s reckless lifestyle, always living on the edge. Although Bon used up his nine lives, Back in Black served as a tribute to this singer, focusing on the positive aspects of his life.

Biblical Application:

Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness. 5 But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin. 6 No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him, 1 John 3:4-6.

Exegesis of Back in Black:

Back in black, I hit the sack
I’ve been too long, I’m glad to be back
Yes, I’m let loose from the noose
That’s kept me hangin’ about
I’m just a-lookin’ at the sky ’cause it’s gettin’ me high
Forget the hearse, ’cause I’ll never die
I got nine lives, cat’s eyes
Abusin’ every one of them and runnin’ wild

Bon Scott possessed a dare devil spirit within him like Evil Knievel. Bon is not the first musician to lose control of his life, dying prematurely. Like a cat that keeps escaping death, Scott began to think he was indestructible.

‘Cause I’m back
Yes, I’m back
Well, I’m back
Yes, I’m back
Well, I’m back, back
Well, I’m back in black
Yes, I’m back in black

The chorus suggests that Bon is back with AC/DC in spirit.

Oh, back in the back of a Cadillac
Number one with a bullet, I’m a power pack
Yes, I’m in a band with a gang
They’ve got to catch me if they want me to hang
‘Cause I’m back on the track, and I’m beatin’ the flack
Nobody’s gonna get me on another rap
So look at me now, I’m just a-makin’ my play
Don’t try to push your luck, just get out of my way

This stanza uses rhymes to remember Bon. He was the life of the party, always pushing his luck and didn’t want anyone to tell him what to do.

‘Cause I’m back
Yes, I’m back
Well, I’m back
Yes, I’m back
Well, I’m back, back
Well, I’m back in black
Yes, I’m back in black

Well, I’m back
Yes, I’m back
Well, I’m back
Yes, I’m back
Well, I’m back, back
Well, I’m back in black
Yes, I’m back in black, ow!

Rock music isn’t always about the lyrics. Back in Black has stood the test of time due to the beat and sound.

Ah, yeah
Oh, yeah
Take my love
Oh, yeah
Yeah
Ah, yeah-yeah
Oh, yeah

Bon loved life, especially as a lead singer of a famous rock band.

Well, I’m back (I’m back)
Back, well I’m (I’m back)
Back (I’m back)
Back (I’m back)
Back (I’m back)
Back, back in black
Yes, I’m back in black

While this song may bring back the memory of their friend, dying in his prime.

Outta the sack

This final line is either referring to a body bag or Bon never slept, staying out late until the party was over.

Final Thoughts:

AC/DC songs were a staple at the local roller-skating rink that I went to every Friday night in Junior High. When I wasn’t in the arcade playing Pac Man, songs like Back in Black moved me to get back on the roller rink floor. Most people know at least one friend whose life resembles a young Bon Scott. May this blog inspire you to intervene in some manner before it’s too late.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 26

Posted on January 26, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Against the Wind:

Bob Seger was a member of his high school cross country and track team. As Seger reflects upon days when he was literary running against the wind, he reflects upon past experiences in life. The lyrics of the Against the Wind chorus are a metaphor for the challenges, obstacles and struggles that human beings endure throughout life. The theme of resilience is highlighted by the montage of Against the Wind in the iconic film Forrest Gump.

Biblical Application:

He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he causes me to stand on the heights.34 He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze.35 You make your saving help my shield, and your right hand sustains me; your help has made me great. 36 You provide a broad path for my feet, so that my ankles do not give way, Psalm 18:33-36.

Exegesis Against the Wind:

Seems like yesterday
But it was long ago
Janey was lovely, she was the queen of my nights
There in the darkness with the radio playin’ low

Bob Seger is having a flashback to his days in high school. Janey is likely Bob’s high school sweetheart. Spending time together listening to music.

And the secrets that we shared
Mountains that we moved
Caught like a wildfire out of control
‘Til there was nothin’ left to burn and nothin’ left to prove

Bob reflects upon meaningful conversations where he was vulnerable. These special moments removed barriers that separated him from Janey and or other friends. The wildfire analogy appears to refer to a relationship built on honesty where nothing was withheld.

And I remember what she said to me
How she swore that it never would end
I remember how she held me, oh, so tight
Wish I didn’t know now what I didn’t know then

Bob developed a special bond with Janey as he relives fond memories from his past.

Against the wind
We were runnin’ against the wind
We were young and strong
We were runnin’ against the wind

The wind slows down your momentum when it’s in your face. Yet, when you are young, you don’t know any better, clinging to a relationship.

And the years rolled slowly past
And I found myself alone
Surrounded by strangers I thought were my friends
Found myself further and further from my home

This stanza suggests that Bob’s relationship with Jany ended. This loneliness was not healed by people that Bob thought were his friends. Bob left home, moving away to start a new life.

And I guess I lost my way
There were, oh, so many roads
I was livin’ to run and runnin’ to live
Never worried about payin’, or even how much I owed

Failed relationships have a lasting impact on human beings. While Bob lost his way momentary, this pain resulted in going into debt.

Movin’ eight miles a minute for months at a time
Breakin’ all of the rules that would bend
Began to find myself searchin’
Searchin’ for shelter again and again

Running an 8-minute mile is a slow pace where your mind tends to wander. This portion of Bob’s life went off the rails as he began to challenge authority. Bob was looking for shelter, a safe place to recover.

Against the wind
Little somethin’ against the wind
I found myself seekin’ shelter against the wind

Storms usually bring high winds. Bob wanted his current trial to end.

Well, those drifter’s days are past me now
I’ve got so much more to think about
Deadlines and commitments
What to leave in, what to leave out

Bob is full of thoughts as he reflects upon his past. There is too much to say, struggling to figure out what is essential and what can be left out.

Against the wind
I’m still runnin’ against the wind
I’m older now, but still runnin’ against the wind

While Bob is now older and wiser, he is still facing difficult issues in life.

Well, I’m older now and still runnin’ against the wind
Against the wind, against the wind
Still runnin’ (against the wind)
I’m still runnin’ against the wind (against the wind)
I’m still runnin’ (against the wind)
I’m still runnin’ against the wind (against the wind)
Still runnin’ (against the wind)
Runnin’ against the wind, runnin’ against the wind (against the wind)

This extended chorus points to the fact that trials never stop like trade winds which never cease.

See the young man run (against the wind)
Watch the young man run (against the wind)
Watch the young man runnin’ (against the wind)
He’ll be runnin’ against the wind (against the wind)
Let the cowboys ride (against the wind)
Ooh (against the wind)
Let the cowboys ride (against the wind)
They’ll be ridin’ against the wind (against the wind)

Bob sees himself back in high school and now as an adult running against the winds of life. This song concludes with an image of the fronter with cowboys riding as the wind blows around them.

Final Thoughts:

As a former runner, I am reminded of David’s prayer as a shepherd. Herding his sheep upon all kinds of terrains, David trusted God with every aspect of his life, including not twisting or turning his ankle. Following reconstruction surgery on my left ankle, I made David’s words into a prayer each time I went running. Although life is full of hidden holes, potholes and ruts, God can protect you when you go running against the wind.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 25

Posted on January 25, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind My Generation:

After his Packard was towed, Pete Townsend reflected upon his life experiences growing up in Great Britain. The lyrics were inspired by the Queen Mother of England and by the Moses Allison song Young Man’s Blues. At the time My Generation was composed, Townsend was lost, struggling to find his place in this world. These are the emotions that spawned My Generation.

Biblical Application:

I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. 10 So do not fear, for I am with you;  do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand, Isaiah 41:9-10.

Exegesis of My Generation:

People try to put us d-down (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
Just because we g-get around (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
Things they do look awful c-c-c-cold (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
I hope I die before I get old (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)

Pete is frustrated by the oppression he is experiencing. He doesn’t like the direction society is heading. Wishing to die before he grows old.

This is my generation
This is my generation, baby

This is a microscopic depiction of Pete’s generation.

Why don’t you all fade away (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
And don’t try to dig what we all s-s-say (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
I’m not trying to cause a big s-sensation (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
I’m just talkin’ ’bout my g-g-g-generation (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)

Questioning what’s going on in society is taboo. Authority figures see this as a sign of pessimism and rebellion. Don’t make such a fuss about current events. This is a glimpse of Pete’s generation.

This is my generation
This is my generation, baby

This is how Pete sees his generation.

Why don’t you all fade away (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
And don’t try to dig what we all s-s-s-say (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
I’m not trying to cause a big sensation (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
I’m just talkin’ ’bout my g-g-g-generation (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)

Pete feels like society is trying to silence him. Perhaps, Pete is referring to the mentality, lets just sweep things under the rug and hope everything goes away instead of dealing with it.

This is my generation
This is my generation, baby
My, my generation
My, my, my, my generation

The repetitive chorus underscores Pete’s perspective of his generation.

People try to put us d-down (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
Just because we g-g-get around (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
Things they do look awful c-c-cold (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)
Yeah, I hope I die before I get old (Talkin’ ’bout my generation)

Pete feels like he is being held back, stopping cultural progress. This is how he sees things.

This is my generation
This is my generation, baby
My, my, my, my g-g-gen-generation

Talkin’ about my generation
My generation
This is my generation, baby
My generation

This is my generation
This is my generation
This is my generation

The final 3 stanzas are an extended chorus. Pete is a voice singing about how other people his age see what is going on within his generation.

Final Thoughts:

As an individual part of Generation X, my thoughts on society are that work ethic is dying. Whether this is due to apathy, a lack of discipline or widespread egocentrism, most people would rather talk than work. Despite this current trend, I still believe that work ethic can be saved if individuals are held accountable and pushed to reach new heights.

by Jay Mankus

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