Tag Archives: writing

The Message Behind the Music-October 28

Posted on October 28, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Paramore: crushcrushcrush [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Inspiration Behind Crush Crush Crush:

This song was inspired by the raw, chaotic emotions of teenage infatuation. Lead singer Hayley Williams drew from her own experiences growing up to address a mix of thrill, insecurity, and obsession. The lyrics capture the awkwardness, excitement, and vulnerability of a young crush. As young hearts race, you feel both electric and fragile emotions.

Biblical Application:

A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel, Proverbs 15:18.

Exegesis of Crush Crush Crush:

II’ve got a lot to say to you
Yeah, I’ve got a lot to say
I noticed your eyes are always glued to me
Keeping them here
And it makes no sense at all

Hayley notices that another boy has a crush on her. This attraction doesn’t make sense.

They taped over your mouth
Scribbled out the truth with their lies
You little spies

Gossip started this distortion of the truth.

They taped over your mouth
Scribbled out the truth with their lies
You little spies

Repeated as if to express her frustrations.

Crush, crush, crush
Crush, crush
(Two, three, four)

The issue of dealing with crushes.

Nothing compares to
A quiet evening alone
Just the one, two
I was just counting on

The silence of being alone can be refreshing.

That never happens
I guess I’m dreaming again
Let’s be more than this

However, this rarely occurs, more than a dream.

If you want to play it like a game
Well, come on, come on, let’s play
‘Cause I’d rather waste my life pretending
Than have to forget you for one whole minute

The raw emotions of dealing with a crush and flirting with the one you like.

They taped over your mouth
Scribbled out the truth with their lies
You little spies

Your crush was revealed to the person you like.

They taped over your mouth
Scribbled out the truth with their lies
You little spies

Girls frustrated by gossip.

Crush, crush, crush
Crush, crush
(Two, three, four)

How crushes can be draining.

Nothing compares to
A quiet evening alone
Just the one, two
I was just counting on

Wanting to be alone with the person that you like.

That never happens
I guess I’m dreaming again
Let’s be more than this now

Disappointment from not having this crush lead to anything.

Rock and roll, baby
Don’t you know
That we’re all alone now?
I need something to sing about

Trying to find something positive in life.

Rock and roll, hey
Don’t you know, baby
We’re all alone now?
I need something to sing about

Wanting a relationship to work but it nerver materialized.

Rock and roll, hey
Don’t you know, baby
We’re all alone now?
Give me something to sing about

Third straight stanza is repeated as if to express disappointment.

Nothing compares to
A quiet evening alone
Just the one, two
I was just counting on

Wanting something to happen so bad.

That never happens
I guess I’m dreaming again
Let’s be more than
No ohh

A glimpse of reality.

Nothing compares to
A quiet evening alone
Just the one, two
I was just counting on

Still wanting to dream.

That never happens
I guess I’m dreaming again
Let’s be more than
More than this


Trying to press on.

Final Thoughts:

I had a crush on a good friend from high school who was in a serious relationship for most of high school. When her relationship ended, I started dating a new girl in college. The crush we had on each other never materialized due to timing. These are likely some of the experiences that inspired Hayley to craft Crush Crush Crush.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 27

Posted on October 27, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Monster Mash (Lyrics)

Inspiration Behind Monster Mash:

This song was inspired by Boris Karloff’s iconic Frankenstein’s Monster. This experiment in a lab that led to the creation of Frankenstein was later combined with 1960s dance crazes like the Mashed Potato. Aspiring actor Bobby “Boris” Pickett was also the front man for a group called The Cordials. Bobby used his ability to mimic Boris Karloff’s voice, singing the Monster Mash as if Boris was the lead singer of The Cordials.

Biblical Application:

In that day, the Lord will punish with his sword—his fierce, great and powerful sword—
Leviathan the gliding serpent, Leviathan the coiling serpent; he will slay the monster of the sea, Isaiah 27:1.

Exegesis of Monter Mash:

I was working in the lab late one night
When my eyes beheld an eerie sight
For my monster, from his slab, began to rise
And suddenly, to my surprise

A reference from Frankenstein’s creation from the movie.

(He did the Mash) he did the Monster Mash
(The Monster Mash) it was a graveyard smash
(He did the Mash) it caught on in a flash
(He did the Mash) he did the Monster Mash

In this version, the monster created is dancing to the mashed potato as well as free styling.

From my laboratory in the Castle east
To the master bedroom, where the vampires feast
The ghouls all came from their humble abodes
To get a jolt from my electrodes

Boris describes in detail the atmosphere inside his haunted castle.

(They did the Mash) they did the Monster Mash
(The Monster Mash) it was a graveyard smash
(They did the Mash) it caught on in a flash
(They did the Mash) they did the Monster Mash

The chorus is designed to appeal to the dance craves of the 1960’s.

The zombies were having fun
The party had just begun

Setting the scene inside this dance for monsters.

The guests included Wolf-Man, Dracula, and his son

The who’s who list of the monsters on the dance floor.

The scene was rocking, all were digging the sounds
Igor on chains, backed by his baying hounds
The coffin-bangers were about to arrive
With their vocal group, The Crypt-Kicker Five

A vivid image of a Halloween costume party where all the guests are dancing.

(They played the Mash) they played the Monster Mash
(The Monster Mash) it was a graveyard smash
(They played the Mash) it caught on in a flash
(They played the Mash) they played the Monster Mash

The audience digged the live band at this castle.

Out from his coffin, Drac’s voice did ring
Seems he was troubled by just one thing
Opened the lid and shook his fist
And said, “Whatever happened to my Transylvania twist?”

A funny complaint leads to a new song and dance.

(It’s now the Mash) it’s now the Monster Mash
(The Monster Mash) and it’s a graveyard smash
(It’s now the Mash) it’s caught on in a flash
(It’s now the Mash) it’s now the Monster Mash

All the monsters are breaking down to the sound of this music.

Now everything’s cool, Drac’s a part of the band
And my Monster Mash is the hit of the land
For you, the living, this Mash was meant too
When you get to my door, tell them Boris sent you

Bobby speaks in third person as Boris, amazed at how popular this song became.

(And you can Mash) then you can Monster Mash
(The Monster Mash) and do my graveyard smash
(Then you can Mash) you’ll catch on in a flash
(Then you can Mash) then you can Monster Mash

The Mash. possibly the Mash Potato dance continues.

Mash good!
Easy, Igor, you impetuous, young boy
Mash good! (Monster Mash)

Igor is getting too excited, caught up in the excitement of this dance.

(Monster Mash)
(Monster Mash)
(Monster Mash)
(Monster Mash)

Everyone on the dance floor is singing along with the band.

Final Thoughts:

Like the film Footloose, dancing is how each generation expresses themselves. While not all dances make sense or catch on, the Alley Cat and Fox Trot are still being performed today. My wife and I took a ballroom dancing class at Dupont Country Club while I was still teaching. Although I don’t remember all the moves, dancing to good music makes any evening that much more enjoyable.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 26

Posted on October 26, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Corey Hart – Sunglasses At Night (Official Music Video)

Inspiration Behind Sunglasses at Night:

This song was spawn from a quirky studio moment when Corey Hart was recording his first album in London. As Corey began improvising lyrics while wearing a new pair of Ray‑Ban Wayfarers, the title Sunglasses at Night was conceived. Despite having enough material for the First Offense album, Sunglasses at Night was a last second addition.

Biblical Application:

From noon until three in the afternoon darkness came over all the land. 46 About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli,[c] lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”). – Matthew 27:45-46.

Exegesis of Sunglasses at Night:

I wear my sunglasses at night
So I can, So I can
Watch you weave then breathe your story lines
And I wear my sunglasses at night
So I can, So I can
Keep track of the visions in my eyes

Corey was excited to dawn his brand-new pair of Ray-Bans. No one can tell exactly what you are looking at when wearing sunglasses. During this recording session, these Ray-Bans made Corey think better, seeing the vision for this song.

While, she’s deceiving me,
It cuts my security (has)
she got control of me
I turn to her and say

Referring to either an ex or a possessive friend. Finally, Corey had to speak his mind.

Don’t switch the blade on the guy in shades; oh no
Don’t masquerade with the guy in shades;
(oh no) (I can’t believe it)
You got it made with the guy in shades; oh no

Don’t mess with the guy in shades, Corey. Don’t wear them to be cool. Telling this woman that you’ve got it made.

I wear my sunglasses at night
So I can, So I can
Forget my name while you collect your claim
And I wear my sunglasses at night
So I can, So I can
See the light that’s right before my eyes

Two main reasons to wear sunglasses at night.

While she’s deceiving me,
she cuts my security (has)
She got control of me
I turn to her and say

Corey reached a point where he had to express how he really felt.

Don’t switch the blade on the guy in shades (oh no)
Don’t masquerade with the guy in shades
(oh no) (I can’t believe it)
(cuz) You got it made with the guy in shades (oh no)

A warning to not mess with Corey followed by a sense of appreciation for being with a famous singer.

While she’s deceiving me,
she cuts my security (has)
She got control of me
I turn to her and say

A set of repeating stanzas, letting out his frustration.

Don’t switch the blade on the guy in shades (oh no)
Don’t masquerade with the guy in shades
(oh no) (I can’t believe it)
don’t be afraid of the guy in shades
(oh No) (It can’t escape you)
(cus) You got it made with the guy in shades (oh no)

A firm message to his girlfriend.

I said
I wear my sunglasses at night
I wear my sunglasses at night
I wear my sunglasses at night

Winding down with a set of choruses about wearing sunglasses at night.

I say to ya now
I wear my sunglasses at night
I wear my sunglasses at night
I wear my sunglasses at night

Proud of his new Ray-Bans.

I cry to you
I wear my sunglasses at night
I wear my sunglasses at night

Explaining his rationale for wearing sunglasses at night.

Final Thoughts:

I have a rare condition known as iritis. From time to time, I have serious flare ups which force me to wear sunglasses at night to avoid straining my eyes. When I had emergency surgery on one of my eyes a decade ago, I had to wear special glasses for night like I was a senior citizen. I essentially have arthritis in my eyes. Subsequently, sunglasses are a necessary step to avoid permanently damaging my eyes and vision. This is one of the burdens I am forced to bear in life.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 25

Posted on October 25, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Cars Life is a Highway

Inspiration Behind Life is a Highway:

Tom Cochrane wrote this song as a personal pep talk after a transformative famine‑relief trip with World Vision to Africa. The lyrics to Life is a Highway blends the freedom of the open road with a message of optimism and resilience. Life is a Highway also explains the transformation of Lightning McQueen’s character in the movie Cars. Cochrane altered the original demo of this song into the upbeat anthem we know today, using the “highway” metaphor to symbolize life’s journey.

Biblical Application:

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

Exegesis of Life is a Highway:

Whoo!
Mm, yeah
Life’s like a road that you travel on
When there’s one day here and the next day gone
Sometimes you bend, sometimes you stand
Sometimes you turn your back to the wind
There’s a world outside every darkened door
Where blues won’t haunt you anymore
Where the brave are free and lovers soar
Come ride with me to the distant shore

The thrill of driving. Every road trip is a metaphor for life. You never know the condition that you will face. The world outside is likely a reference to the humanitarian trip to Africa. This experience opened the eyes of Tom Cochrane to the darkside of life. Don’t limit yourself to one place. Rather explore distant lands.

We won’t hesitate
To break down the garden gate
There’s not much time left today, yeah

Seize the day. Don’t procrastinate as there is time to live.

Life is a highway
I wanna ride it all night long
If you’re goin’ my way
Well, I wanna drive it all night long

Enjoy each experience in life as you live your life. Make the most of each day.

Through all these cities and all these towns
It’s in my blood and it’s all around

Traveling and being on the move is what makes some people tick.

I love you now like I loved you then
This is the road and these are the hands
From Mozambique to those Memphis nights
The Khyber Pass to Vancouver’s lights
Knock me down, I’m back up again
You’re in my blood, I’m not a lonely man

Not sure if he is talking about his wife or his life. Excited about charting out a new path in life. Referencing the places that he has traveled to in life. Traveling is in Tom’s blood.

There’s no load I can’t hold
A road so rough, this I know
I’ll be there when the light comes in
Just tell ’em we’re survivors

Symbolic of being ready for the next challenge in life. Fighting through rough days to press on.

Life is a highway
Well, I wanna ride it all night long (whoo!)
If you’re goin’ my way
I wanna drive it all night long (all night long)
A gimme, gimme, gimme, gimme, yeah
Life is a highway
Well, I wanna ride it all night long (mm, yeah)
If you’re goin’ my way (you’re goin’ my way)
I wanna drive it all night long (all night long)

Jumping in with all your heart, soul and mind. Living life to the fullest. Being eager and excited to start a new day.

There was a distance between you and I (between you and I)
A misunderstanding once
But now we look it in the eye
Ooh, yeah (mm, yeah)
There ain’t no load that I can’t hold
The roads are rough, this I know
I’ll be there when the light comes in
Tell ’em we’re survivors

Growing apart from a special person due to a misunderstanding. Despite this current situation, facing this head on and sticking together should result in surviving this ordeal.

Life is a highway
Well, I wanna ride it all night long (all night long, yeah)
If you’re goin’ my way
Well, I wanna drive it all night long (a gimme, gimme, gimme, a gimme, gimme, yeah)
Life is a highway (life is a highway)
I wanna ride it all night long (whoo, yeah)
If you’re goin’ my way (you’re goin’ my way)
I wanna drive it all night long (all night long, yeah)
(Come on, gimme, gimme, gimme, gimme, gimme, gimme, yeah)

A resolve to move forward in life. Excited for the journey that awaits.

Life is a highway
I wanna ride it all night long (yeah, I wanna drive it all night long, baby)
If you’re goin’ my way (you’re goin’ my way)
I wanna drive it all night long (all night long)

He is not slowing down. Pressing on to see what’s next in life.

Final Thoughts:

When I started driving in high school, there was a scenic valley where students would go cruising. Although some portions were dangerous, going up and down hills was calming and relaxing if I was stressed out. While this doesn’t make the pain of living go away, taking these drives did improve my mental health. In college, road trips were also fun, following a spur of the moment idea to go to a specific place. Life can be tough, but if you don’t chance chances, you’ll never know exactly what you can do or handle in life.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 24

Posted on October 24, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Steve miller Band – Abracadabra

Inspiration Behind Abracadabra:

Steve Miller had been experimenting with his concept for Abracadabra for over three years. Following an unexpected encounter with Diana Ross, the content of this conversation unlocked the creative breakthrough he had been seeking. While Miller struggled to make the music and words work, Abracadabra is a form of gibberish used by magicians when performing a magic trick.

Biblical Application:

“‘Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, for you will be defiled by them. I am the Lord your God. 32 “‘Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the Lord, Leviticus 19:31-32.

Exegesis of Abracadabra:

[Verse 1]
I heat up, I can’t cool down
You got me spinnin’ ’round and ’round
‘Round and ’round and ’round it goes
Where it stops nobody knows
Every time you call my name
I heat up like a burnin’ flame
Burnin’ flame full of desire
Kiss me, baby, let the fire get higher

A new woman in his life makes Steve passionate about life. Interactions with this woman gets Steve excited. Being with this woman is a magical experience.

[Chorus]
Abra-abra-cadabra
I wanna reach out and grab ya
Abra-abra-cadabra
Abracadabra

The presence of this woman is like a magic trick.

[Bridge]
You make me hot, you make me sigh
You make me laugh, you make me cry
Keep me burnin’ for your love
With the touch of a velvet glove

Steve-s love for this woman is on fire.

[Chorus]
Abra-abra-cadabra
I wanna reach out and grab ya
Abra-abra-cadabra
Abracadabra

He can’t control himself when he is in her presence.

[Verse 2]
I feel the magic in your caress
I feel magic when I touch your dress
Silk and satin, leather and lace
Black panties with an angel’s face
I can see magic in your eyes
I hear the magic in your sighs
Just when I think I’m gonna get away
I hear those words that you always say

Images of foreplay during a moment of passion.

[Chorus]
Abra-abra-cadabra
I wanna reach out and grab ya
Abra-abra-cadabra
Abracadabra

Another magical moment.

[Verse 3]
Every time you call my name
I heat up like a burnin’ flame
Burnin’ flame full of desire
Kiss me baby, let the fire get higher, yeah, yeah

Like a high school boy who falls in love for the first time.

[Break]
I heat up, I can’t cool down
My situation goes ’round and ’round
I heat up, I can’t cool down
My situation goes ’round and ’round
I heat up, I can’t cool down
My situation goes ’round and ’round

Repeating a previous stanza to explain how passionate his love is for this woman.

[Outro]
I heat up (I heat up), I can’t cool down (I can’t cool down)
My situation goes ’round and ’round (‘Round and ’round)
I heat up (I heat up), I can’t cool down (I can’t cool down)
My situation goes ’round and ’round (‘Round and ’round)
I heat up (I heat up), I can’t cool down (I can’t cool down)

The presence of this woman completely transforms his mood time after time.

Final Thoughts:

The night before my first day of high school, an interaction with a girl named Debbie made me feel like Steve Miller in this song. Oddly enough, Debbie would often perform seances. I was a follower at this stage of my life. Because of my interest in Debbie, I was a willing participant, unaware of the spiritual ramifications that I would experience later in life. However, this is what love does to men who fall head over heels for another woman.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 23

Posted on October 23, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Matthew Wilder – Break My Stride (Audio)

Inspiration Behind Break My Stride:

Break My Stride was conceived out of Matthew Wilder’s personal frustration and creative block with Arista Records and Clive Davis. Instead of allowing writer’s block to stop his progress as a song writer, Matthew persevered, turning this moment of doubt into an anthem for perseverance. The journey to craft Break My Stride served as a declaration that nothing would slow him down despite music industry obstacles.

Biblical Application:

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God, Hebrews 12:1-2.

Exegesis of Break My Stride:

Last night, I had the strangest dream
I sailed away to China
In a little rowboat to find ya
And you said you had to get your laundry cleaned
Didn’t want no one to hold you
What does that mean?

One of those odd dreams where you try to find meaning and purpose from.

And you said

A thought came to your mind.

Ain’t nothing gonna break my stride
Nobody gonna slow me down
Oh no, I got to keep on moving
Ain’t nothing gonna break my stride
I’m running, and I won’t touch ground
Oh no, I got to keep on moving

Having the resolve to press on, whatever the obstacles may be.

You’re on a roll and now you pray it lasts
The road behind was rocky
But now you’re feeling cocky
You look at me, and you see your past
Is that the reason why you’re running so fast?

Set free from writer’s block. Praying this momentum continues. Possibly a reference to his wife or song writer. The swift pace might be fear that writer’s block will return.

And she said

A person from his dream or member of the music industry.

Ain’t nothing gonna break my stride
Nobody gonna slow me down
Oh no, I got to keep on moving
Ain’t nothing gonna break my stride
I’m running, and I won’t touch ground
Oh no, I got to keep on moving

This woman is also on a roll with a strong desire to keep making progress.

Never met another girl like you
Won me over
Never let another girl like you
Drag me under
If I need another girl like you
I will tell her
Never want another girl like you
Have to say

The ups and downs in a relationship. Instant attraction followed by reality, seeing their flaws.

Oh, ain’t nothing gonna break my stride
Nobody gonna slow me down
Oh no (oh no), I got to keep on moving
Ain’t nothing gonna break my stride
I’m running, and I won’t touch ground
Oh no, I got to keep on moving

Ending on a series of choruses, driving home the point of having a will be reach your dreams and goals.

Ain’t nothing gonna break my stride
Nobody gonna slow me down
Oh no (oh no), I got to keep on moving
Ain’t nothing gonna break my stride
I’m running, and I won’t touch ground
Oh no, I got to keep on moving

Nothing is going to get between me and my desire to be successful.

(Whoa-oh) ain’t nothing gonna break my stride
Nobody gonna slow me down
Oh no, I got to keep on moving
Ain’t nothing gonna break my stride
I’m running, and I won’t touch ground
Oh no, I got to keep on moving
Ain’t nothing gonna break my stride
Nobody gonna slow me down
Oh no (oh no)

Ain’t no stopping me now. I refuse to quit.

Final Thoughts:

I started submitting some of the things that I have written over 30 years. While I wasn’t successful early on, I kept writing. Although I haven’t had one of my screenplays purchased, I am an honorary member of the International Society of Poets. With a few books in the planning stages, I am hopeful that writing will follow me into retirement. Like the words of C.S. Lewis, “success is the process of arriving,” so my writing journey continues, praying for future earnings.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 20

Posted on October 20, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Warren Zevon – Werewolves Of London (Official Music Video) [HD]

Inspiration Behind Werewolves of London:

Every Halloween, Warren Zevon’s biggest hit ever, “Werewolves of London.” makes its way back into the song rotation for October. Werewolves of London combine humor with a catchy melody that produces a timeless appeal for listeners. Modern song writers would try to force the theme of werewolves into a song. yet Warren took a playful, 15‑minute joke by Phil Everly and turned this into a classic hit.

Biblical Application:

And God said, “Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds: the livestock, the creatures that move along the ground, and the wild animals, each according to its kind.” And it was so. 25 God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good, Genesis 1:24-25.

Exegesis of Werewolves in London:

[Verse 1]
I saw a werewolf with a Chinese menu in his hand
Walking through the streets of Soho in the rain
He was looking for the place called Lee Ho Fook’s
Gonna get a big dish of beef chow mein

The beginning of a joke. Setting the stage for a solid punchline.

[Chorus]
Ah-hoo, werewolves of London
Ah-hoo
Ah-hoo, werewolves of London
Ah-hoo

A funny transition about the presence of werewolves in town.

[Verse 2]
You hear him howling around your kitchen door
You better not let him in
Little old lady got mutilated late last night
Werewolves of London again

Perhaps symbolic of a hungry child who is complaining. Transitioning into a modern version of Little Red Riding Hood. Reference to a local news story, suggesting another victim to Werewolves in London.

[Chorus]
Ah-hoo, werewolves of London
Ah-hoo
Ah-hoo, werewolves of London
Ah-hoo, huh

They are here.

Verse 3]
He’s the hairy-handed gent who ran amok in Kent
Lately, he’s been overheard in Mayfair
You better stay away from him
He’ll rip your lungs out,Jim
Huh, I’d like to meet his tailor

Using poetry to begin this stanza. A warning to watch out for a werewolf in disguise.

[Chorus]
Ah-hoo, werewolves of London
Ah-hoo
Ah-hoo, werewolves of London
Ah-hoo

They have become a nuisance.

[Verse 4]
Well, I saw Lon Chaney walking with the queen
Doing the werewolves of London
I saw Lon Chaney, Jr.walking with the queen, uh
Doing the werewolves of London
I saw a werewolf drinking a piña colada at Trader Vic’s
And his hair was perfect
Na!

This has now become a dance like Thriller. Meanwhile, these werewolves are spreading, even infiltrating royalty.

[Chorus]
Ah-hoo
Werewolves of London
Huh, draw blood, uh
Ah-hoo
Werewolves of London

Watch out for their fangs.

Final Thoughts:

This is one of those songs that you make up late at night at work, blending strange lyrics with a rhymical sound. While the Bible references Kraken and large beast. werewolves are not mentioned. This is more of a horror film fantasy linked with vampires. Although there may be demonic entities and spirits which can turn animals into uncontrolled beasts, werewolves are merely a legendary tale linked to a creature not of this world.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 18

Posted on October 18, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Creedence Clearwater Revival – I Put A Spell On You

Inspiration Behind I Put a Spell on You:

I Put a Spell on You began as a personal blues ballad about heartbreak. The lyrics examine themes of love, obsession, and the power of attraction. However, a haunting melody magnifies the bewitching influence of someone’s love. This is a song that appeals to someone blinded and smitten by love.

Biblical Application:

No Ammonite or Moabite or any of their descendants may enter the assembly of the Lord, not even in the tenth generation. 4 For they did not come to meet you with bread and water on your way when you came out of Egypt, and they hired Balaam son of Beor from Pethor in Aram Naharaim[c] to pronounce a curse on you. 5 However, the Lord your God would not listen to Balaam but turned the curse into a blessing for you, because the Lord your God loves you. 6 Do not seek a treaty of friendship with them as long as you live, Deuteronomy 23:4-5.

Exegesis of I Put a Spell on You:

I put a spell on you
Because you’re mine
You better stop
The things that you’re doin’
I said “Watch out!”
I ain’t lyin’, yeah!

This man has reached a point in their relationship where he doesn’t trust her. His response to her unfaithfulness is casting a spell on her. A warning to stop her cheating ways.

I ain’t gonna take none of your
Foolin’ around
I ain’t gonna take none of your
Puttin’ me down
I put a spell on you
Because you’re mine

This main is drawing the line. No more fooling around, flirting or negative comments. Claiming her as if she was livestock.

All right!

This is how it is going to be.

I put a spell on you
Because you’re mine
You better stop
The things that you’re doin’
I said “Watch out!”
I ain’t lyin’, yeah!

This spell is designed to only love him so that her infidelity ceases. Another warning.

I ain’t gonna take none of your
Foolin’ around
I ain’t gonna take none of your
Puttin’ me down
I put a spell on you
Because you’re mine

This man has reached his breaking point, laying down his expectations for this relationship.

All right and I took it down!

Ending the conversion. This is my final warning.

Final Thoughts:

As a former coach and teacher, bad chemistry can ruin the climate of a group or team. One malcontent individual can poison the minds of others, resulting in a toxic environment. When relationships like the one mentioned in I Put a Spell on You reaches a breaking point, sometimes it’s better to receive counseling before making an ultimatum. Since the only thing you can control is yourself, be the best you can and if a relationship isn’t meant to be, God will provide clarity.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 16

Posted on October 16, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Golden Earring | Twilight Zone (HQ)

Inspiration Behind Twilight Zone:

Twilight Zone was inspired by the 1980 spy thriller novel The Bourne Identity by Robert Ludlum. Lead guitarist George Kooymans wrote this song using the tense, espionage‑driven plot before Bourne Identity was made into a film series. This cinematic, spy‑themed visual music video was one of the first to combine a narrative with dance choreography. When Music Television launched in 1983, Twilight Zone was one of videos to gain national recognition.

Biblical Application:

None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 9 However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”[b]—the things God has prepared for those who love him—10 these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God, 2 Corinthians 2:8-10.

Exegesis of Twilight Zone:

[Intro]
daeh ym ni sneriS
 yznerf a otni snips efil elohw yM
Somewhere in a lonely hotel room
There’s a guy starting to realize
That eternal fate has turned its back on him
It’s two a.m. 

Different from the opening scene in the Bourne Identity movie. Jason is starting to have an epiphany.

[Verse 1]
It’s two a.m., the fear has gone
(It’s two a.m., the fear has gone)
I’m sitting here waitin’, the gun’s still warm
(I’m sitting here waitin’, the gun’s still warm)
Maybe my connection is tired of takin’ chances
Yeah, there’s a storm on the loose, sirens in my head
Wrapped up in silence, all circuits are dead
Cannot decode, my whole life spins into a frenzy

Jason has just come back from his latest assignment. A moment of clarity has shined through his years of military training. Common sense is beginning to unlock his years of being programmed.

[Chorus]
Help, I’m steppin’ into the Twilight Zone
Place is a madhouse, feels like being cloned
My beacon’s been moved under moon and star
Where am I to go now that I’ve gone too far?
Help, I’m steppin’ into the Twilight Zone
Place is a madhouse, feels like being cloned
My beacon’s been moved under moon and star
Where am I to go now that I’ve gone too far?

This place of indecision is entitled the Twilight Zone. Referring to the psychological training Jason underwent. Conviction has led to second guessing his life. Jason’s conscience is now serving as a beacon to reconsider his life.

[Post-Chorus]
Soon you will come to know
When the bullet hits the bone
Soon you will come to know
When the bullet hits the bone

A glimpse of Jason’s future when he is not a fast, strong or wiser than the next assassin.

[Verse 2]
I’m falling down the spiral destination unknown
Double crossed messenger all alone
Can’t get no connection, can’t get through
Where are you?
Well the night weighs heavy on his guilty mind
This far from the borderline
When the hitman comes
He knows damn well he has been cheated

Imagines of his past transgression are coming to the forefront of Jason’s mind. Following the messages and texts on burner phones like a machine is now being questioned. Jason begins to question who he is and what he is doing. Jason has passed the line of no return, but a guilty heart has helped Jason realize that he is being used.

[Chorus]
And he says, “Help, I’m steppin’ into the Twilight Zone
Place is a madhouse, feels like being cloned
My beacon’s been moved under moon and star
Where am I to go now that I’ve gone too far?”
Help, I’m steppin’ into the Twilight Zone
Place is a madhouse, feels like being cloned
My beacon’s been moved under moon and star
Where am I to go now that I’ve gone too far?

The Twilight Zone is a place of mental anguish. Jason’s conscience is trying to retake over his corrupted mind.

[Post-Chorus]
Soon you will come to know
When the bullet hits the bone
Soon you will come to know
When the bullet hits the bone, bone, bone
When the bullet hits the bone

When the next Jason Bourne is trained and the current Jason isn’t quick enough, he will be the one taken out.

[Chorus]
Help, I’m steppin’ into the Twilight Zone
Place is a madhouse, feels like being cloned
My beacon’s been moved under moon and star
Where am I to go now that I’ve gone too far?
Help, I’m steppin’ into the Twilight Zone
Place is a madhouse, feels like being cloned
My beacon’s been moved under moon and star
Where am I to go now that I’ve gone too far?

Chorus is repeated to magnify the mental struggle between right and wrong. Change creates internal conflict.

[Post-Chorus]
Soon you will come to know
When the bullet hits the bone
Soon you will come to know
When the bullet hits the bone
Soon you will come to know
When the bullet hits the bone
Soon you will come to know
When the bullet hits the bone

The hunter is now becoming the hunted.

[Outro]
When the bullet hits the bone, aha
When the bullet hits the bone
When the bullet hits the bone, aha
When the bullet hits the bone
When the bullet hits the bone, aha
When the bullet hits the bone
When the bullet hits the bone, aha
When the bullet hits the bone

This is why Jason began to question his assignment and start ascertaining his true identity.

Final Thoughts:

The sinful nature is a difficult beast to tame. When human beings start following addictions, bad habits and unwholesome cravings, lives spiral out of control. Whether you are a professional hitman or an individual ensnared by sin, breaking free seems nearly impossible. This crossroads in life is known as the Spiritual Twilight Zone, Romans 7:14-20. The only way to escape is by receiving Jesus as your Lord and Savior, Romans 10:9-11. The longer you wait, the harder it is to change.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 15

Posted on October 15, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Ozzy Osbourne – Crazy Train (Official Animated Video)

Inspiration Behind Crazy Train:

Crazy Train formed out of a hybrid of a studio accident, a unique guitar sound, and broader cultural anxieties. As preparations for the Blizzard of Ozz album began, guitarist Randy Rhoads had an effects pedal that “chugged” even when not in use. This defect produced a sound that reminded him of a train. When you mix in the reality that countless human beings are one step away from losing it, Crazy Train was conceived.

Biblical Application:

They went across the lake to the region of the Gerasenes.[a] 2 When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an impure spirit came from the tombs to meet him. 3 This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain. 4 For he had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue him. 5 Night and day among the tombs and in the hills he would cry out and cut himself with stones, Mark 5:1-5.

Exegesis of Crazy Train:

All aboard! Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha!
Ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay…

Ozzy is like a rock conductor.

Crazy, but that’s how it goes
Millions of people living as foes
Maybe it’s not too late
To learn how to love and forget how to hate

Craziness causing individuals to live side by side as enemies. Ozzy doubts if these people filled with hate can change.

Mental wounds not healing
Life’s a bitter shame
I’m going off the rails on a crazy train
I’m going off the rails on a crazy train

Millions of people allow these mental wounds to fester. This is why shame is a tough pain to swallow. Even Ozzy feels like his life is going off the rails.

Let’s go!

Ozzy is encouraging others to hop on.

I’ve listened to preachers, I’ve listened to fools
I’ve watched all the dropouts who make their own rules
One person conditioned to rule and control
The media sells it and you live the role

Ozzy quickly summaries people who have tried to explain to him the root cause of crazy. Individuals who drop out of school tend to break away from social norms. Those who play by the rules are often swayed to conform to the media’s message.

Mental wounds still screaming
Driving me insane

Mental wounds are tougher to heal so they often go unnoticed or left alone.

I’m going off the rails on a crazy train
I’m going off the rails on a crazy train

This is a root cause of craziness.

I know that things are going wrong for me
You gotta listen to my words, yeah, yeah!

Crazy people can sense when things are about to go wrong. Ozzy seems to want to help people.

Heirs of a Cold War, that’s what we’ve become
Inheriting troubles, I’m mentally numb
Crazy, I just cannot bear
I’m living with something that just isn’t fair

Reference to the Arms races between the United States and the former Soviet Union. Becoming cold inside, comfortably numb. Inheriting generational sins from your family. These addictions, bad habits and unwholesome cravings are what Ozzy can’t break free from. This is what Ozzy believes is unfair.

Mental wounds not healing
Who and what’s to blame?
I’m going off the rails on a crazy train
I’m going off the rails on a crazy train

Struggling to understand why his mind isn’t healing and who is to blame for his ordeal.

Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha!
The edge

Living on the edge, not sure the next time crazy rears its ugly head.

Final Thoughts:

As a former youth pastor, I’ve dealt with several teenagers who were suicidal. Since two of my high school teammates committed suicide, I take mental health extremely seriously. Books like Restoring the Foundations by Chester and Betsy Kylstra helped me sort through my own mental wounds. Restoring the Foundations helped answer questions that I had for decades, allowing my mind to be restored by the power of the Holy Spirit. This is how I got off the Crazy Train that I got on when I was in college.

by Jay Mankus

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