Tag Archives: reviews

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 21

Posted on January 21, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Rock Me Amadeus:

Falco went to see the film Amadeus in 1984. After this movie, Falco became fascinated with Amadeus. Falco set out to compose a song that would celebrate of genius of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Reflecting upon the rivalry between Mozart and Antonio Salieri, Falco’s creative juices flowed to mix synth-pop with rap. Once complete, Rock Me Amadeus became a worldwide hit.

Biblical Application:

For I do not want you to be ignorant of the fact, brothers and sisters, that our ancestors were all under the cloud and that they all passed through the sea. 2 They were all baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. 3 They all ate the same spiritual food 4 and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ. 5 Nevertheless, God was not pleased with most of them; their bodies were scattered in the wilderness. 6 Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did, 1 Corinthians 10:1-6.

Exegesis of Rock Me Amadeus:

Rock me, rock me, rock me, rock me, rock me, Amadeus

Rock me all the time to the top

If you were inspired by a classical musician, this is not the way you would begin a tribute song. Yet, Falco appears to wonder, “what if Mozart was a rock star?”

Er war ein Punker und er lebte in der großen Stadt
Es war in Wien, war Vienna, wo er alles tat
Er hatte Schulden, denn er trank, doch ihn liebten alle Frauen
Und jede rief: “Yeah, Come on and rock me, Amadeus”

Falco transitions from his native German back to English. Falco refers to Amadeus as the punk rock star of his day. While his weakness for alcohol made his poor, the woman of his day loved him. Sometimes lyrics are secondary to a beat and melody which likely explains why Rock Me Amadeus became a global hit.

Er war Superstar, er war populär
Er war so exaltiert, because er hatte Flair
Er war ein Virtuose, war ‘n Rockidol
Und alles rief: “Yeah, come and rock me, Amadeus”

Falco uses German to celebrate. the greatness of Mozart.

Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus
Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus
Amadeus, Amadeus
Oh, oh, oh, Amadeus
Come and rock me, Amadeus

The bland repetitive song writing didn’t make this song a hit. It was the rhythm and style that moved listeners.

Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus
Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus
Amadeus, Amadeus
Oh, oh, oh, Amadeus (ey!)

Falco was surely obsessed with Amadeus. Perhaps’ Falco’s English was limited at the time of this recording which led to repeating Amadeus over and over again.

Es war um siebzehn-hundert-achtzig und es war in Wien
No plastic money anymore, die Banken gegen ihn
Woher die Schulden kamen, war wohl jedermann bekannt
Er war ein Mann der Frauen, Frauen liebten seinen Punk

Falco provides the historical context of what Amadeus had to overcome. Amadeus rose above these circumstances to be an elite classical musician.

Er war Superstar, er war so populär
Er war zu exaltiert, genau das war sein Flair
Er war ein Virtuose, war ‘n Rockidol
Und alles ruft noch heute: “Come and rock me, Amadeus”

Amadeus was a superstar of his day with flair.

Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus
Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus
Amadeus, Amadeus
Oh, oh, oh, Amadeus
Oh, come and rock me, Amadeus

Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus
Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus
Amadeus, Amadeus
Oh, oh, oh, Amadeus
Come and rock me, Amadeus

Oh, come and rock me, Amadeus

Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus
Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus
Amadeus, Amadeus
Oh, oh, oh, Amadeus (come and rock me, Amadeus)

Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus
Amadeus, Amadeus, Amadeus
Amadeus, Amadeus
Oh, oh, oh, Amadeus (Amadeus, Amadeus)

(Amadeus, Amadeus)

(Ama-ama-ama-amadeus)
(Ama-ama-amadeus)

Oh, come and, come and rock me, Amadeus

Perhaps Falco could have ended this song sooner, but the basic chorus suggests limited English at the time this song was written.

Amadeus (-deus, -deus, -deus, -deus, -deus, -deus, -deus, -deus, -deus, -deus)

Final Thoughts:

In the entertainment industry, sex appeal sells average and mediocre products. In the case of Rock Me Amadeus, the lyrics are underwhelming at best. Yet, the sound, beat and unique style made Falco a giant one hit wonder that is still aired on radio stations today.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 19

Posted on January 19, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Dreams:

Behind the scenes, band members endure trials whether while on the road touring or cutting a new album. Stevie Nix wrote the song Dreams during a tumultuous period for Fleetwood Mac. As personalities clashed during the recording of their Rumors album, internal conflicts intensified. The lyrics to Dreams were conceived from these personal relationships that Nix hoped would recover from this difficult time for Fleetwood Mac.

Biblical Application:

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you, Ephesians 4:29-32.

Exegesis of Dreams:

Now here you go again, you say you want your freedom
Well, who am I to keep you down?
It’s only right that you should play the way you feel it
But listen carefully to the sound of your loneliness

Apparently, at least one band member of Fleetwood Mac was thinking about leaving before the Rumors album was completed. Stevie understood the need for freedom but play a song the way you feel it needs to be played. If this isn’t good enough for you, are you ready to go on your own.

Like a heartbeat drives you mad
In the stillness of remembering what you had
And what you lost
And what you had
And what you lost

Think about what you’re about to do before making a decision that you’ll regret.

Oh, thunder only happens when it’s raining
Players only love you when they’re playing
Say, women, they will come and they will go
When the rain washes you clean, you’ll know
You’ll know

Human beings can be shallow basing their feelings about you by your performance. People will come and go as they please. During periods of rain and storms, you’ll know when you’re fully recovered.

Now here I go again, I see the crystal visions
I keep my visions to myself
It’s only me who wants to wrap around your dreams
And have you any dreams you’d like to sell?
Dreams of loneliness

Stevie has a clear vision either for the band or herself. Yet, she doesn’t think now is the time to tell anyone in the band. Stevie is either referring to a relationship or dreams about Fleetwood Mac. Unfortunately, at the time of writing Dreams, she doesn’t feel that optimistic, just loneliness.

Like a heartbeat drives you mad
In the stillness of remembering what you had
And what you lost
And what you had
Oh, what you lost

Stevie doesn’t want to lose the friendships and relationships that she had at this time.

Thunder only happens when it’s raining
Players only love you when they’re playing
Women, they will come and they will go
When the rain washes you clean, you’ll know

The chorus serves as a time of reflection. People and love change constantly.

Oh, thunder only happens when it’s raining
Players only love you when they’re playing
Say, women, they will come and they will go
When the rain washes you clean, you’ll know
You’ll know
You will know
Oh, you’ll know

Stevie is giving the audience and band members something to think about. The rainwater is symbolic of being cleansed and healed from heart break in life.

Final Thoughts:

In the heat of the moment, we all have said things that we regret. This is why reconciliation is crucial for forgiving and forgetting to move forward in a relationship. While certain people will need a kick in the rear from time to time, staying optimistic has a way of mending fragile relationships. When you point out the positive in the form of affirmations and encouragement, you’re more likely to keep a group of friends together. This is what helps keep dreams alive.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 12

Posted on January 12, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind No Easy Way Out:

Robert Tepper’s song No Easy Way Out was a perfect fit for the Rocky IV soundtrack. While some may refer to Robert as a one hit wonder, this hit was huge and is brought back to life during monthly Rocky marathons on cable television. No Easy Way Out is an anthem for driven individuals who avoid taking short cuts in life. Rather, this fighter mentality urges listeners to face their challenges, obstacles and trials head on.

Biblical Application:

 If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters,[a] you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. 7 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come, 1 Timothy 4:6-8.

Exegesis of No Easy Way Out:

We’re not indestructible
Baby, better get that straight
I think it’s unbelievable
How you give into the hands of fate

In the context of Rocky IV, Rocky has just agreed to fight Ivan Drago who just killed his friend Apollo Creed in what was supposed to be a friendly bout. After an argument with his wife. Rocky gets in his car to blow off steam.

Some things are worth fighting for
Some feelings never die
I’m not askin’ for another chance
I just wanna know why

Rocky is a fighter who only knows how to fight. This is what he does. Unfortunately, his wife doesn’t understand.

There’s no easy way out
There’s no shortcut home
There’s no easy way out
Givin’ in can’t be wrong

As the chorus begins, Rocky is going to have to train like he has never trained before. Taking a shortcut may result in his own death.

I don’t wanna pacify you
I don’t wanna drag you down
But I’m feelin’ like a prisoner
Like a stranger in a no named town

Rocky feels like he has to fight Drago even if his own wife doesn’t think he has a chance.

I see all the angry faces
Afraid that could be you and me
Talkin’ about what might have been
I’m thinkin’ about what it used to be

Rocky’s decision has put a strain on his marriage, going to Russia alone to train.

There’s no easy way out
There’s no shortcut home
There’s no easy way out
Givin’ in can’t be wrong

Accepting this challenge is the only logical choice for Rocky to make in his mind.

Baby, baby, we can shed this skin
We can know how we feel inside
Instead of goin’ down an endless road
Not knowin’ if we’re dead or alive

Unfortunately, Rocky’s relationship with his wife is on cold ice, not sure if he can repair his marriage after the boxing match with Drago.

Some things are worth fightin’ for
Some feelings never die
I’m not askin’ for another chance
I just wanna know why

Any type of questionable decision will put a strain on a relationship.

There’s no easy way out
There’s no shortcut home
There’s no easy way out
Givin’ in, givin’ in can’t be wrong, no

Rocky believes he is making the right decision by fighting Drago.

There’s no easy way out
(There’s no easy way out)
There’s no shortcut home
(There’s no shortcut home)
There’s no easy way out
(There’s no easy, no easy, no easy way out)

Taking short cuts while training will result in defeat, death or both.

There’s no easy way out
(There’s no easy way out)
There’s no shortcut home
(There’s no shortcut home)
There’s no easy way out
(There’s no easy, no easy, no easy way out)
There’s no easy way out
There’s no shortcut home
There’s no easy way out

These are the thoughts racing through Rocky’s head as he returns home.

Final Thoughts:

In this age of NIL (Name, Image and Likeness), athletes are losing the hunger to win. As high school athletes are now getting paid to play a specific sport, they are losing their competitive advantage, the Eye of the Tiger. Although certain professional athletes may not get the attention that they deserve. However, as long as they individuals avoid taking short cuts along the way, fame or fortune will come over time for this relentless hard work.

by Jay Mankus

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