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The Message Behind the Music-August 25

Posted on August 25, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Taylor Swift – Change

Inspirations Behind Change:

Change was co‑written by Nathan Chapman, part of Taylor’s second album Fearless. This song is symbolic of Taylor’s initial struggles with the smallest record label in Nashville. Taylor played the role of the underdog early in her career, facing an uphill climb toward her rise to stardom. Writing new songs became a call to action to reach Taylor’s aspirations as an artist.

Biblical Application:

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus, Philippians 3:12-14.

Exegesis of Change:

And it’s a sad picture, the final blow hits you
Somebody else gets what you wanted again
You know it’s all the same, another time and place
Repeating history and you’re getting sick of it

The disappointment of someone else getting what you what. The competitor inside of Taylor is tired of playing second fiddle.

But I believe in whatever you do
And I’ll do anything to see it through

Taylor is determined to succeed.

Because these things will change, can you feel it now?
These walls that they put up to hold us back will fall down
This revolution, the time will come for us to finally win
And we’ll sing hallelujah
We’ll sing hallelujah, oh

Taylor is either referring to a movement or playing the role of the underdog who will eventually come out on top.

So we’ve been outnumbered, raided and now cornered
It’s hard to fight when the fight ain’t fair
We’re getting stronger now, find things they never found
They might be bigger, but we’re faster and never scared

Being with the smallest record label in Nashville is hard to overcome. Yet Taylor is more determined than ever to reach new heights.

You can walk away, say we don’t need this
But there’s something in your eyes, says we can beat this

The easy thing to do is quit. However, winners never give up with an eye of the tiger mentality.

‘Cause these things will change, can you feel it now?
These walls that they put up to hold us back will fall down
This revolution, the time will come for us to finally win
And we’ll sing hallelujah
We’ll sing hallelujah, oh

Taylor reached a point in her life that she believed success was within reach. The underdog will start a new revolution.

Tonight we’ll stand, get off our knees
Fight for what we’ve worked for all these years
And the battle was long, it’s the fight of our lives
But we’ll stand up, champions tonight

Perhaps a suggestion that after praying, we stand tonight to celebrate. All the hard work has finally paid off. Standing together as a team or for a specific cause.

It was the night things changed, can you see it now?
These walls that they put up to hold us back fell down
It’s a revolution, throw your hands up ’cause we never gave in
And we’ll sing hallelujah
We sang hallelujah
Hallelujah

Looking back, this was the night, performance, that everything changed. The obstacles that held us back have been removed. This is why we celebrate as if praising God in church.

Final Thoughts:

There have been many defining moments in my own life. Giving my first sermon in Friendship, Maryland, getting married, having 3 children and blessed with many athletic achievements. Yet the friendships in high school, college and while in youth ministry have touched my life. All I can do is to continue to press on, looking ahead to the future to see where God can use me. As I struggle with the present, I look forward to spiritual victories in the future.

At the end of the summer, there were years that I was eager to return to school. There were certain people that I wanted to touch base with, reunite and work out together as fall practices began. Subsequently, the final week of August will feature songs that encourage, inspire and motivate individuals to change for the better.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 24

Posted on August 24, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Brooks & Dunn – Red Dirt Road (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind Red Dirt Road:

Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn relied on their childhood experiences to write Red Dirt Road. The idea was conceived during a 2002 tour when each brought up memories of growing up in Arkansas. The East Main highway out of El Dorado was their main drag, the place where they cruised around town as teenagers. These life encounters helped conceive the lyrics of Red Dirt Road.

Biblical Application:

“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? 47 As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. 48 They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. 49 But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete,” Luke 6:46-49.

Exegesis of Red Dirt Road:

I was raised off of Rural Route 3
Out past where the blacktop ends
We’d walk to church on Sunday morning
Race barefoot back to Johnson’s fence
That’s where I first saw Mary
On that roadside, pickin’ blackberries
That summer, I turned a corner in my soul
Down that red dirt road

Reflections from the past, vivid images. Walking to church, competitions, and his first love. Picking berries, likely with Mary and his spiritual maturity.

It’s where I drank my first beer
It’s where I found Jesus
Where I wrecked my first car
I tore it all to pieces
I learned the path to Heaven
Is full of sinners and believers
Learned that happiness on Earth
Ain’t just for high achievers
I’ve learned, I’ve come to know
There’s life at both ends of that red dirt road

Quick snapshots of growing up. These ups and down led Brooks and Dunn toward Jesus. This maturity led to a new perspective about life.

Her daddy didn’t like me much
In my shackled up GTO

Mary’s parents didn’t like a guy who liked to drive fast.

I’d sneak out in the middle of the night
Throw rocks at her bedroom window
We’d turn out the headlights
And drive by the moonlight
Talk about what the future might hold
Down that red dirt road

Memories of his first serious girlfriend.

It’s where I drank my first beer
It’s where I found Jesus
Where I wrecked my first car
I tore it all to pieces
I learned the path to Heaven
Is full of sinners and believers
Learned that happiness on Earth
Ain’t just for high achievers
I’ve learned, I’ve come to know
There’s life at both ends of that red dirt road

Repeating the chorus detailing firsts in life. This search led to what the Bible refers to as the narrow path.

I went out into the world
And I came back in
I lost Mary
Oh, I got her back again
And driving home tonight
Feels like I found a long lost friend

Filling in the gaps. Losing your way in life. Breaking and mending a relationship. A glimpse of the ups and downs in life.

It’s where I drank my first beer
It’s where I found Jesus
Where I wrecked my first car
I tore it all to pieces
I learned the path to Heaven
Is full of sinners and believers
Learned that happiness on Earth
Ain’t just for high achievers
I’ve learned, I’ve come to know
There’s life at both ends of that red dirt road

Growing up can be hard, but when you start turning your life around, peace can be found.

Yes, I’ve learned, I’ve come to know
There’s life at both ends of that red dirt road

These are the life lessons learned while growing up.

Final Thoughts:

Playing sports was one of the best parts of my life growing up. The relationships that I developed with teammates hold a special place in my heart. While I have lost touch with many of these individuals, I still hear from some of them from time to time. Hanging out with my cross-country teammates was always memorable, especially when we met up on dates at the Charcoal Pit. Yet the most special memories occurred on Lay Mission Witness weekends, often with friends from the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. These life changing retreats helped shape who I have become as an adult. These are my own Delaware moments like Red Dirt Road.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 23

Posted on August 23, 2026 by expressyourself4him

JAŸ-Z – Empire State Of Mind ft. Alicia Keys

Inspiration Behind Empire State of Mind:

Empire State of Mind was spawn from the city that shaped Jay-Z’s life and career. Following the release of Empire State of Mind, this song has evolved into a universal anthem for ambition, resilience, and the American Dream. The original version of Empire State of Mind was co-written by Angela Hunte and Janet “Jnay” Sewell-Ulepic. After submitting their song to Jay-Z, it was edited to its current form and lyrics.

Biblical Application:

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God, Colossians 3:1-3.

Exegesis of Empire State of Mind:

[Intro: JAY-Z]
Yeah

He’s ready to do this.

[Verse 1: JAY-Z & Alicia Keys]
Yeah, I’m out that Brooklyn, now I’m down in Tribeca
Right next to De Niro, but I’ll be hood forever
I’m the new Sinatra, and since I made it here
I can make it anywhere, yeah, they love me everywhere
I used to cop in Harlem, hola, my Dominicanos (Dímelo)
Right there up on Broadway, brought me back to that McDonald’s
Took it to my stash spot, 560 State Street
Catch me in the kitchen, like a Simmons whippin’ pastry
Cruisin’ down 8th Street, off-white Lexus
Drivin’ so slow, but BK is from Texas
Me? I’m out that Bed-Stuy, home of that boy Biggie
Now I live on Billboard and I brought my boys with me
Say “What up?” to Ty Ty, still sippin’ Mai Tais
Sittin’ courtside, Knicks and Nets give me high fives
Nigga, I be spiked out (Come on), I could trip a referee (Come on)
Tell by my attitude (Come on) that I’m most definitely from

Jay-Z using this opening stanza to provide a brief bio of his life as well as memories and reflections of New York City.

[Chorus: Alicia Keys & JAY-Z]
In New York (Ayy, uh, yeah; aha)
Concrete jungle (Yeah) where dreams are made of
There’s nothin’ you can’t do (Yeah, okay)
Now you’re in New York (Aha, aha, aha; uh, yeah)
These streets will make you feel brand-new (New)
Big lights will inspire you (Come on, okay)
Let’s hear it for New York (You welcome, OG; uh)
New York (Yeah), New York (Uh, I made you hot, nigga)

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Why Why Why

New York City is described as a concrete jungle, vast and dense. In this place, everything is possible. The atmosphere on these streets with the lights made Jay-Z feel brand new.

Shawn MendesWatch the Party DieKendrick LamarThe Tortured Poets DepartmentTaylor SwiftVerse 2: JAY-Z & Alicia Keys]
Catch me at the X with OG at a Yankee game
Shit, I made the Yankee hat more famous than a Yankee can
You should know I bleed blue, but I ain’t a Crip though
But I got a gang of niggas walkin’ with my clique though
Welcome to the meltin’ pot, corners where we sellin’ rock
Afrika Bambaataa shit, home of the hip-hop
Yellow cab, gypsy cab, dollar cab, holla back
For foreigners, it ain’t fair, they act like they forgot how to add
Eight million stories out there in the naked
City, it’s a pity half of y’all won’t make it
Me? I gotta plug Special Ed, “I Got It Made”
If Jeezy’s payin’ LeBron, I’m payin’ Dwyane Wade
Three dice, Cee-lo, Three Card Monte
Labor Day Parade, rest in peace, Bob Marley
Statue of Liberty, long live the World Trade (Come on, come on)
Long live the king, yo (Come on), I’m from the Empire State, that’s

Jay-Z takes credit for the popularity of wearing Yankees hats in public. Meanwhile, Jay-Z sees New York as a melting pot of people. Giving a glimpse of what it’s like to get anywhere in New York. Meanwhile, there are a series of name drops of famous people who have performed in New York at the Garden. From the Stature of Liberty to the World Trade Center and King Kong, this helps comprise an Empire State of mind.

[Chorus: Alicia Keys & JAY-Z]
In New York (Ayy; uh, yeah)
Concrete jungle where dreams are made of
There’s nothin’ you can’t do (That boy good, okay)
Now you’re in New York (Uh, yeah, welcome to the bright lights, baby)
These streets will make you feel brand-new
Big lights will inspire you (Okay)
Let’s hear it for New York (Uh)
New York (Yeah), New York (Uh)

The chorus is repeated with a different ending. Likely an ode to Frank Sinatra’s song about New York.

[Verse 3: JAY-Z & Alicia Keys], girls need blinders
Or they could step out of bounds quick, the side lines is
Lined with casualties who sip the life casually
Then gradually become worse, don’t bite the apple, Eve
Caught up in the in-crowd, now you’re in-style
Into the winter gets cold, en vogue with your skin out
City of sin is a pity on a whim
Good girls gone bad, the city’s filled with them
Mami took a bus trip, now she got her bust out
Everybody ride her, just like a bus route
“Hail Mary” to the city, you’re a virgin
And Jesus can’t save you, life starts when the church end
Came here for school, graduated to the high life
Ball players, rap stars, addicted to the limelight
MDMA (Come on) got you feelin’ like a champion (Come on)
The city never sleeps (Come on), better slip you a Ambien

There are certain aspects of New York that isn’t pretty, needing blinders. Crime, murder and cold winters. Meanwhile, success makes some of the famous lose their way, breaking bad with a couple of examples. A call for penance and new plea to turn to God for help from a Catholic perspective. The local basketball playground has developed stars and rappers who have become addicted to fame.

[Chorus: Alicia Keys & JAY-Z]
In New York (Ayy, ow, uh, yeah)
Concrete jungle where dreams are made of
There’s nothin’ you can’t do (Okay)
Now you’re in New York (Uh, yeah)
These streets will make you feel brand-new
Big lights will inspire you (Okay)
Let’s hear it for New York (Uh)
New York (Yeah), New York (Uh)

Another chorus with slight changes. New York is a special place.

[Bridge: Alicia Keys]
One hand in the air for the big city (Oh)
Street lights, big dreams, all lookin’ pretty (Oh)
No place in the world that could compare (Nah)
Put your lighters in the air, everybody say
“Yeah, yeah” (Come on, come on)
“Yeah, yeah” (Come on)

No city in America compares to New York. This is what draws dreamers to this place.

[Chorus: Alicia Keys]
In New York (Uh, yeah, oh)
Concrete jungle where dreams are made of
There’s nothin’ you can’t do (Okay)
Now you’re in New York (Uh, yeah, yeah)
These streets will make you feel brand-new
Big lights will inspire you (Okay)
Let’s hear it for New York (Uh)
New York (Yeah), New York (Uh)

What New York can do for you.

Final Thoughts:

I visited New York City once as a child and once in college. While the expenses to travel to New York have continued to increase, there are many special sites that are worth it. The food is amazing if you know where to eat. The Empire State Building still provides breathtaking views. Yet now that I live in the country, I don’t miss the congestion, crowds and traffic.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 21

Posted on August 21, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Johnny Be Goode

Inspiration Behind Johnny Be Goode:

Johnny B. Goode serves as an autobiography, painting the picture of a country boy who has dreams of becoming a famous guitar player. Chuck Berry grew up in St. Louis during a time when African Americans were limited in their career paths. Subsequently, upon fulfilling his dream, Chuck wrote Johnny B. Goode to celebrate this genre of rock and roll.

Biblical Application:

You strum away on your harps like David and improvise on musical instruments, Amos 6:5.

Exegesis of Johnny B. Goode:

Deep down in Louisiana, close to New Orleans
Way back up in the woods among the evergreens
There stood a log cabin made of earth and wood
Where lived a country boy named Johnny B. Goode
Who never ever learned to read or write so well
But he could play the guitar just a-ringin’ a bell

The introduction of Johnny B. Goode, a country boy who grew up in the deep woods. While education never excited Johnny, picking up a guitar felt just right, able to naturally play.

Go, go
Go, Johnny, go, go
Go, Johnny, go, go
Go, Johnny, go, go
Go, Johnny, go, go
Johnny B. Goode

A call to encourage Johnny to follow his dream.

He used to carry his guitar in a gunny sack
Go sit beneath the trees by the railroad track
Oh, the engineers would see him sittin’ in the shade
Strummin’ with the rhythm that the drivers made
People passing by, they would stop and say
“Oh my, but that little country boy could play”

Once Johnny could play a collection of songs, he would go out in public to perform as passersby’s marveled at his musical abilities.

Go, go

Go, Johnny, go, go
Go, Johnny, go, go
Go, Johnny, go, go
Go, Johnny, go, go
Johnny B. Goode

Keep playing Johnny. Keep it up.

His mother told him, “Someday you will be a man
And you will be the leader of a big ol’ band
Many people coming from miles around
To hear you play your music when the sun go down
Maybe someday your name will be in lights
Saying Johnny B. Goode tonight”

Chuck is likely referring to his own mother who believed in her son and had a clear vision for his life. However, if you stay out of trouble, you’ll be successful in the future.

Go, go
Go, Johnny, go
Go, go, go, Johnny, go
Go, go, go, Johnny, go
Go, go, go, Johnny, go
Go
Johnny B. Goode

A final call for Johnny to follow his dream to be a musician.

Final Thoughts:

Passions can come and go in life. If you don’t nurture or pursue your passions, some talents will simply fade away. In elementary school, I played an alto saxophone and could play the piano by reading music. Once sports took over as my main passion, these musical abilities quickly vanished. Being great at one thing takes years of mastery and practice. However, when you only have one main interest and passion, this usually gives birth to future phenoms. If you are dedicated from an early age like Chuch Berry, anything is possible.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 19

Posted on August 19, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Lipps Inc. – Funkytown (1980)

Inspiration Behind Funkytown:

Steven Greenberg ran a mobile disco system and produced records for Twin/Tone. This inspiration for Funkytown came in the late 1970’s during the disco era when Steven was living in Minneapolis. Since Steven considered the Minneapolis’ music market as very vanilla, this city was in desperate need of some funk. Subsequently, Funkytown was Steven’s contribution to infuse soul and Motown influences into Minnesota.

Biblical Application:

I have become a sign to many; you are my strong refuge. 8 My mouth is filled with your praise, declaring your splendor all day long, Psalm 71:7-8.

Exegesis of Funkytown:

Gotta make a move to a town that’s right for me
Town to keep me movin’, keep me groovin’ with some energy

Living in a vanilla town for one with funk and soul. A place with energy, grooves and moves.

Well, I talk about it, talk about it
Talk about it, talk about it
Talk about, talk about
Talk about movin’

Spread the word to find a place like Motown.

Gotta move on
Gotta move on
Gotta move on

This place is holding me back. I need to move on where I find my own beat.

I want you take me to Funkytown
Won’t you take me to Funkytown?
Won’t you take me to Funkytown?
Won’t you take me to Funkytown?

Opening chorus that highlights the goal for this search: Funkytown.

Won’t you take me to Funkytown?
Won’t you take me to Funkytown?
Won’t you take me to Funkytown?
Won’t you take me to Funkytown?

The desire to find this state of mind.

Gotta make a move to a town that’s right for me
Town to keep me movin’, keep me groovin’ with some energy

Searching for the ideal atmosphere to dance.

Well, I talk about it, talk about it
Talk about it, talk about it
Talk about, talk about
Talk about movin’

Where is this location? I need to know.

Gotta move on
Gotta move on
Gotta move on

I have to experience this fictional place.

I want you take me to Funkytown
Won’t you take me to Funkytown?
Won’t you take me to Funkytown?
Won’t you take me to Funkytown?

A series of choruses. Expressing the desire to experience Funkytown.

Won’t you take me to Funkytown?
Won’t you take me to Funkytown?
Won’t you take me to Funkytown?
Won’t you take me to Funkytown? Yeah

Show me how to get there.

Won’t you take me down to Funkytown?
Won’t you take me down to Funkytown?
Won’t you take me down to Funkytown?
Won’t you take me down to Funkytown?

I need to know what it is really like.

(Won’t you take me to) Funkytown?
(Won’t you take me to) Funkytown?
(Won’t you take me to) Funkytown?
(Won’t you take me to) Funkytown?

Lead me there.

Take me, won’t you take me?
Take me, won’t you take me?
Take me (won’t you take me to) won’t you take me?
Take me (won’t you take me to) won’t you take me?

This request doesn’t stop until reaching Funkytown.

I wanna go (won’t you take me to) to Funkytown
I wanna go (won’t you take me to) to Funkytown
I wanna go (won’t you take me to) to Funkytown, now
I wanna go (won’t you take me to) to Funkytown

Funkytown is a state of mind when you reach the dance floor.

Final Thoughts:

From my sophomore year of high school til my senior year of college, dancing at nightclubs became one of my favorite pastimes. I usually went with a few friends or on a date, but I loved losing myself into the song playing. Depending upon the sound, I would be transition, shifting my moves from song to song. While I’ve never been to a physical Funkytown, I have enjoyed hours of dancing in this state of mind.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 18

Posted on August 18, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Styx – Come Sail Away

Inspiration Behind Come Sail Away:

The concept for Come Sail Away came during a band trip to Hawaii in April 1977. Styx was performing at the Crater Festival when founding member Dennis DeYoung composed this song. While on the beach, DeYoung was looking out at boats in the ocean and began imagining a journey toward something bigger. The lyrics are a metaphor chasing dreams as well as finding a better place in life.

Biblical Application:

That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm, Mark 4:35-39.

Exegesis of Come Sail Away:

I’m sailing away
Set an open course for the Virgin Sea
‘Cause I’ve got to be free
Free to face the life that’s ahead of me

While observing ships from the beach, Dennis uses Virgin Sea as a metaphor to illustrate a fresh start, freedom, and the unknown. This clean slate leads to a sense of freedom as he thinks about his future.

On board, I’m the captain
So climb aboard
We’ll search for tomorrow
On every shore
And I’ll try, oh Lord, I’ll try
To carry on

Dennis is now the captain of his own boat, inviting others to come aboard as he leads the way. Before this search for tomorrow begins, Dennis offers up to pray to God tor strength to carry on in life.

I look to the sea
Reflections in the waves, spark my memory
Some happy, some sad
I think of childhood friends and the dreams we had

The waters from this beach are like a mirror, able to reflect memories from the past. This time of reflection triggers childhood dreams that Dennis may have given up on.

We lived happily forever
So the story goes
But somehow we missed out
On the pot of gold
But we’ll try, best that we can

To carry on

Story book endings sound good but are far from reality. Missing out on the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, Dennis musters up the strength to press on in life.

A gathering of angels
Appeared above my head
They sang to me this song of hope
And this is what they said

Whether part of a dream or some sort of angelic encounter, Dennis received a song of hope within his mind with the chorus listed below.

They said come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me, lads
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me, baby
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me

A call to begin again by sailing away to chart out a new path in life.

I thought that they were angels
But to my surprise
We climbed aboard their starship
We headed for the skies

An image inside of Dennis’ dreams, referring to an alien encounter, A friendly one like ET.

Singing “Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me, lads
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me

The chorus serves as an invitation, to come aboard to begin a new journey in life.

Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me”
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me
Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me

The chorus is repeated like a final call before this ship takes off.

Come sail away, come sail away
Come sail away with me

Join me on this new adventure.

Final Thoughts:

Human beings all come to a crossroads in life where you have to decide if you keep going on your current path or you decide to stop for a moment of reflection. Sometime your current financial state may limit your options. However, if your mental health is worsening, drastic changes must be made. Change is never easy but as C.S, Lewis once wrote, “success is the process of arriving.” As you set sail for your next phase in life, never stop learning to avoid complacency. Go with God and God will go with you.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 17

Posted on August 17, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Rockaway Beach (40th Anniversary Tracking Mix)

Inspiration Behind Rockaway Beach:

Dee Dee Ramone whose real name is Doug Colvin grew up visiting Rockaway Beach in Queens, New York. Dee Dee recalls taking a bus or hitchhiking there every summer as a teenager. As the bassist for the Ramones, Dee Dee wrote Rockaway Beach which went on to become the bands highest ranking song on the Billboard Charts.

Biblical Application:

Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. 5 He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?” “No,” they answered. 6 He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish, John 21:4-6.

Exegesis of Rockaway Beach:

[Intro]
One, two, three, four

Making sure the band is on the same page as they begin.

[Verse 1]
Chewing out a rhythm on my bubble gum
The sun is out and I want some
It’s not hard, not far to reach
We can hitch a ride to Rockaway Beach
Up on the roof, out on the street
Down in the playground, the hot concrete
Bus ride is too slow
They blast out the Disco on the radio

Recollections from a teenage going to the beach. The beach is like a mall in the summer, where teens like to hang out. The places where Dee Dee went when he was young.

[Chorus]
Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach
Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach
Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach
We can hitch a ride to Rockaway Beach
Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach
Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach
Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach
We can hitch a ride to Rockaway Beach

Not much of a creative chorus, simply repetitive with a desire to go to the beach and the cheapest way to arrive.

[Bridge]
It’s not hard, not far to reach
We can hitch a ride to Rockaway Beach
It’s not hard, not far to reach
We can hitch a ride to Rockaway Beach

Anyone can get there if you try hard enough.

[Verse 2]
Chewing out a rhythm on my bubble gum
The sun is out and I want some
It’s not hard, not far to reach
We can hitch a ride to Rockaway Beach
Up on the roof, out on the street
Down in the playground, the hot concrete
Bus ride is too slow
They blast out the Disco on the radio

Using poetry and a catchy tune to celebrate going to this beach. Describing the conditions you should expect once you arrive. Going on the bus isn’t cool but when you hitch a ride the disco is blasting on the radio.

[Chorus]
Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach
Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach
Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach
We can hitch a ride to Rockaway Beach

The preferred way of travel to Rockaway Beach.

[Chorus]
Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach
Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach
Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach
We can hitch a ride to Rockaway Beach
Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach
Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach
Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach
We can hitch a ride to Rockaway Beach

Ending with a repetitive chorus as there is no mention of actually going in the water.

Final Thoughts:

Rockaway Beach is a classic example of a band focusing on a beat and sound rather than the lyrics. Shorter songs can get away with this if a tune is catchy. On the other hand, sometimes record labels want a new album every year or two so there will also be songs that lack inspiration or are simply added at the last minute. My favorite beach songs paint a vivid picture that communicate lasting memories of one’s past.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 16

Posted on August 16, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Norah Jones – Come Away With Me

Inspiration Behind Come Away with Me:

Early in her career, Norah Jones developed an intimate musical environment. By instilling this type of discipline within her personal life, Norah experienced creative reawakening that helped spawn Come Away with Me. After a late-night performance at the Living Room in Manhattan, Norah wrote this song thanks to musical mentors like Jesse Harris and Richard Julian.

Biblical Application:

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. 8 Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil, Psalm 37:7-8.

Exegesis of Come Away with Me:

Come away with me in the night
Come away with me
And I will write you a song

Norah had gotten home after midnight and felt inspired. Perhaps she was longing for companionship for an artist who just turned 20. Prior to Come Away with Me, Norah had gone years without writing a song.

Come away with me on a bus
Come away where they can’t tempt us
With their lies

Being in public together, they could just talk. Nor would there be peer pressure from friends or peers.

I want to walk with you
On a cloudy day
In fields where the yellow grass grows knee-high
So won’t you try to come

Norah appears to be longing for someone that she can open up to. The final two lines could have multiple meanings as if Norah is trying to set boundaries to protect herself.

Come away with me and we’ll kiss
On a mountaintop
Come away with me
And I’ll never stop loving you

She’s in a romantic mood, waiting for just the right person to come around. This stanza is clear that Norah is searching for love.

And I want to wake up with the rain
Falling on a tin roof
While I’m safe there in your arms
So all I ask is for you
To come away with me in the night
Come away with me

Perhaps, Norah is tired to being alone, wanting the security of waking up in someone’s arms. This is what Norah desires, to have a man answer her invitation.

Final Thoughts:

When you are young and you are not in a relationship, life can be lonely. However, if you force the issue, you’ll likely end up with the wrong person. Love can’t be forced. However, when you patiently wait, sometimes love can happen in an instant. The next time you feel lonely, don’t pull a Hagar, Genesis 16. Rather focus on what matters the most to you like a career, faith or hobby and love will arrive when you least expect it.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 15

Posted on August 15, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Elvis Presley – Viva Las Vegas (Remastered)

Inspiration Behind Viva Las Vegas:

Viva Las Vegas was written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman for the 1964 film Viva Las Vegas. This film followed the story of Lucky Jackson, played by Elvis, competing in Las Vegas’ first ever Grand Prix. Like most films, there is romance between Elvis and Ann-Magaret, with Vegas as the backdrop. The lyrics point to Las Vegas as a symbol of entertainment, nightlife, and showbiz extravagance.

Biblical Application:

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone, Colossians 4:5-6.

Exegesis of Viva Las Vegas:

Bright light city gonna set my soul
Gonna set my soul on fire
Got a whole lot of money that’s ready to burn,
So get those stakes up higher
There’s a thousand pretty women waitin’ out there
And they’re all livin’ devil may care
And I’m just the devil with love to spare
Viva Las Vegas, Viva Las Vegas

The neon and flashy lighting made Elvis excited. He’s in a gambling mood where money isn’t a concern. Beside the rush of gambling, there are plenty of women looking to connect with someone, even if the Devil is behind this desire. Elvis doesn’t mind being used, embracing the atmosphere of Vegas.

How I wish that there were more
Than the twenty-four hours in the day
‘Cause even if there were forty more
I wouldn’t sleep a minute away
Oh, there’s black jack and poker and the roulette wheel
A fortune won and lost on ev’ry deal
All you need’s a strong heart and a nerve of steel
Viva Las Vegas, Viva Las Vegas

There isn’t enough time to do everything that Elvis wants to do. Elvis enjoys the nightlife, not wanting to miss any opportunity that may come along. There are plenty of options for gambling, but only the nerves of steel and a strong heart break even or better. This is Las Vegas.

Viva Las Vegas with you neon flashin’
And your one armbandits crashin’
All those hopes down the drain
Viva Las Vegas turnin’ day into nighttime
Turnin’ night into daytime
If you see it once
You’ll never be the same again

The fancy lights lure you inside, but the house usually wins, crushing the hopes and dreams of countless participants. Since the Casinos never close, you never know if it is night or day.

I’m gonna keep on the run
I’m gonna have me some fun
If it costs me my very last dime
If I wind up broke up well
I’ll always remember that I had a swingin’ time
I’m gonna give it ev’rything I’ve got
Lady luck please let the dice stay hot
Let me shout a seven with ev’ry shot
Viva Las Vegas, Viva Las Vegas,
Viva, Viva Las Vegas

Gambling can be like a shot of adrenaline, creating a rush within someone, even if it means losing everything you have. Living with a go for broke attitude. Hoping and wishing for luck to be on their side. A reference to craps. Inside of Casinos, people lay their fortune and life on the line.

Final Thoughts:

My father would bet me a dollar when NFL football games were on television. Every time I bet, I lost. After college, I stopped betting completely, having no desire to rely on chance to hit it big. Subsequently, while some may enjoy going to casinos, I’d rather be at the beach, boogie boarding in the ocean. That’s how I live on the edge.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 14

Posted on August 14, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Billy Joel – Allentown (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind Allentown:

Allentown was conceived from Billy’s personal experiences living on the East Coast, a regional observation, and a deep empathy for working-class struggles. Located in the Rust Belt of America, Allentown was impacted by closing steel mills due to America shipping manufacturing jobs overseas. While the entire he Lehigh Valley was impacted by mill closures, the city of Allentown was selected as the name felt well into the lyrics.

Biblical Application:

To Adam he said, “Because you listened to your wife and ate fruit from the tree about which I commanded you, ‘You must not eat from it,’ “Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat food from it all the days of your life.18 It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field. 19 By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return,” Genesis 3:17-19.

Exegesis of Allentown:

Well, we’re living here in Allentown
And they’re closing all the factories down
Out in Bethlehem, they’re killing time
Filling out forms, standing in line

A second about current events, how the closure of steel mills throughout the cities within the Lehigh Valley was impacting some towns like Allentown.

Well, our fathers fought the Second World War
Spent their weekends on the Jersey Shore
Met our mothers in the USO
Asked them to dance, danced with them slow

Billy speaks to his generation in this stanza. How most fathers served in World War II, where families spent their summer vacations, where their parents met and how they fell in love.

And we’re living here in Allentown
But the restlessness was handed down
And it’s getting very hard to stay

This oasis in the mountains was greatly impacted by shipping manufacturing jobs overseas. Finding a good paying job outside the steel mill was getting harder and harder.

Well, we’re waiting here in Allentown
For the Pennsylvania we never found
For the promises our teachers gave
If we worked hard, if we behaved

This economic situation began to impact students as children began to lose hope, likely taking a toll on grades.

So the graduations hang on the wall
But they never really helped us at all
No, they never taught us what was real

Billy’s teachers were never fully transparent with teachers. Giving the company line which wasn’t real or helpful.

Iron and coke, chromium steel

Contents inside the mills.

And we’re waiting here in Allentown
But they’ve taken all the coal from the ground
And the union people crawled away

Natural resources were starting to dry up. People were waiting for change, but even the Unions struggled.

Every child had a pretty good shot
To get at least as far as their old man got
But something happened on the way to that place
They threw an American flag in our face
Whoa-oh-oh

The America Dream took a hit, lowering the standard for future generations. If you can’t get a job, go serve in the military.

Well, I’m living here in Allentown
And it’s hard to keep a good man down
But I won’t be getting up today

The economic situation was rough, even for the highly motivated.

And it’s getting very hard to stay
And we’re living here in Allentown

While some stayed, many had to move to find a good paying job.

Final Thoughts:

Since today is my birthday, I wanted to write about a town that I grew up 2 hours away from. Just north of Allentown is the Pocono Mountains where I first learned to ski. Blue Mountain is where I took my children where they first learned to ski and snowboard. On one of my birthdays, I took the family to Dorney Park, an amusement and water park. This was one of my more memorable days at a park as we rode all the coasters early and spent the afternoon at the waterpark. This is what Allentown has to offer today.

by Jay Mankus

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