Tag Archives: music

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

Leave a comment

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

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

Leave a comment

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

The Message Behind the Music-September 28

Posted on September 28, 2026 by expressyourself4him

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

Inspiration Behind When Doves Cry:

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

Biblical Application:

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

Exegesis of When Doves Cry:

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

Initial preparations to sing.

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

Transition.

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

Prince is still trying to grasp what went wrong.

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

A way for Prince to express his pain and sadness.

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

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

Final Thoughts:

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

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

The Message Behind the Music-September 26

Posted on September 26, 2026 by expressyourself4him

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

Inspiration Behind Sad Girls:

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

Biblical Application:

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

Exegesis of Sad Girls:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Clinging to false hope.

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

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

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

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

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

This is why sad girls are the last to leave.

Final Thoughts:

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

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

The Message Behind the Music-September 24

Posted on September 24, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Owl City & Carly Rae Jepsen – Good Time

Inspiration Behind Good Time:

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

Biblical Application:

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

Exegesis of Good Time:

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

Setting a positive tone for this moment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This mindset became reality.

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

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

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

This is the pattern for someone living for the nightlife.

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

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

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

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

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

This mindset becomes a reality.

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

Keeping up the energy on the dance floor.

Final Thoughts:

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

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

The Message Behind the Music-September 18

Posted on September 18, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Play The Game Tonight

Inspiration Behind Play the Game Tonight:

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

Biblical Application:

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

Exegesis of Play the Game Tonight:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Put on a good show to please your fans.

Final Thoughts:

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

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

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

Leave a comment

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

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

Leave a comment

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

The Message Behind the Music-September 14

Posted on September 13, 2026 by expressyourself4him

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

Inspiration Behind You’re My Best Friend:

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

Biblical Application:

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

Exegesis of You’re My Best Friend:

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

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

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

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

Ooh, you make me live

Bringing joy to life.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oh, ooh, you make me live

Providing hope and joy.

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

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

Final Thoughts:

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

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

The Message Behind the Music-September 12

Posted on September 12, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Group 1 Crew – “Breakdown”

Inspiration Behind Breakdown:

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

Biblical Application:

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

Exegesis of Breakdown:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trying to impress others of your taste in music.

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

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

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

The adrenaline that fills you when listening to upbeat music.

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

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

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

Repeating the chorus to instill a desire to act.

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

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

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

Hyping up this new sound that they created in Breakdown.

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

Likely a stanza to address their critics on social media.

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

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

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

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

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

Be on guard and alert.

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

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

Final Thoughts:

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

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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