Tag Archives: writing

The Message Behind the Music-August 7

Posted on August 7, 2026 by expressyourself4him

I Left My Heart in San Francisco

Inspiration Behind I Left My Heart in San Franciso:

George Cory was living on the east coast when he began to miss the weather from his hometown of San Francisco. While working with lyricist Douglass Cross in Brooklyn, New York, early in 1950, both noticed the stark difference between New York and San Francisco. After receiving a letter from his sister, Cross painted a vivid picture in his mind of San Francisco’s culture and landmarks, weaving this into the lyrics of today’s featured song,

Biblical Application:

Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it. 12 Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them; let all the trees of the forest sing for joy, Psalm 96:11-12.

Exegesis of I Left My Heart in San Franciso:

[Verse 1]
The loveliness of Paris seems somehow sadly gay
The glory that was Rome is of another day
I’ve been terribly alone and forgotten in Manhattan
I’m going home to my city by the Bay

A song inspired by a conversation about weather. As beautiful as Paris is, the weather doesn’t compare to California. While Rome has its glory, rich in history, San Francisco is better. During a horrible cold winter, images of the Bay keep returning to Cross’ mind.

[Verse 2]
I left my heart in San Francisco
High on a hill, it calls to me
To be where little cable cars climb halfway to the stars
The morning fog may chill the air, I don’t care

Nothing compares to his hometown. Thinking of the cable cars, scenic hills and morning fog that dissipates brings back fond memories.

[Verse 3]
My love waits there in San Francisco
Above the blue and windy sea
When I come home to you, San Francisco
Your golden sun will shine for me

When you love a certain place, no one can convince you of your opinion. This connection with San Francesco can’t be denied. The Pacific Ocean, bay breeze and Golden Gate Bridge has led to a lifelong love of this city.

Final Thoughts:

While I have been to California on a few trips, times have changed. When a social media app was created to make visitors aware of where piles of human poop are located, local leaders have failed. While there are still beautiful places to visit, San Francisco is not as safe and scenic as it once was in the 1950;s.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 6

Posted on August 6, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Hoover Dam

Inspiration Behind Hoover Dam:

During a period of personal and professional crisis, Bob Mould had a breakthrough. The concept for Hoover Dam suddenly came to Bob, fully formed in 1991. Mould’s former band had broken up in 1987, released a solo album before firing his entire team. While living in a loft, Bob couldn’t get the image of the Hoover Dam out of his mind. This imagine became the song shortly thereafter.

Biblical Application:

Then the Lord replied: “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald[b] may run with it.3 For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it[c] will certainly come and will not delay, Habakkuk 2:2-3.

Exegesis of Hoover Dam:

Standing on the edge
Of the hoover dam
I’m on the centerline
Right between two states of mind
And if the wind from the traffic
Should blow me away

Visualizing standing on the edge of this dam. Stuck, frozen between two thoughts. Imagining the worse, being blown away by the wind.

From this altitude
It will come back to you
And do you know the time
All that’s left of me is slight insanity
What’s on the right I don’t know

A moment of crisis, perhaps from a lack of success in life. Unsure of what to do or where to go next.

If the mississippi should wash me away
Down to new orleans
Maybe someday in my dreams
I’d wake feeling the sweat
From the gulf in my mouth

A worst-case scenario, when a dream becomes a nightmare. Waking up sweating, so real but a thought.

On a carousel I can never tell
My direction home
Spinning down a hole

Someone going in circles without making any progress in life. Like being stuck in a strong whirlpool.

I’m losing all control
I’m down to the center of the earth

Losing your mind, about to make a bad decision.

Covered up with lava and I feel fine
It washes over me
Keeps me feeling warm at night
And if you’ve made a deal with
The guy with the horns and the cape
I’ll see you later later

Either a warped dream after staring at a lava lamp or a reference about making a deal with the Devil to be successful in life.

Standing on the edge
Of the hoover dam
Standing on the edge
Of the hoover dam I am

Not sure if Bob is thinking about jumping or he is simply in awe of this view.

Final Thoughts:

As a fellow writer, you never know you’ll receive your next big idea. If you don’t write these thoughts immediately down, they’ll likely vanish. Upon receiving an idea, Prince would wake up his production crew, working all night sometimes, afraid that Michael Jackson would beat him to this song idea. I recently had an idea for a book just getting out of the shower. God willing, this vision will soon become a self-help book in the next year,

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 5

Posted on August 5, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Ray Charles – Georgia On My Mind (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind Georgia on my Mind:

Georgia on My Mind was written in 1930 by Hoagy Carmichael and Stuart Gorrell as a sentimental ballad inspired by a woman named Georgia. Thirty years later, Ray Charles’s soulful rendition transformed it into a personal and cultural anthem for residents of this state. This song is played annually during the airing of the first major golf tournament of the season held in Augusta, Georgia at the Masters.

Biblical Application:

For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. 10 He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing, 1 Thessalonians 5:9-11.

Exegesis of Georgia on My MInd:

Georgia, Georgia
The whole day through (the whole day through)
Just an old sweet song
Keeps Georgia on my mind (Georgia on my mind)

The woman who inspired this initial song must have been a special person.

I said, Georgia, Georgia
A song of you (a song of you)
Comes as sweet and clear
As moonlight through the pines

Even in the darkness, Georgia’s presence resonates by the moonlight.

Other arms reach out to me
Other eyes smile tenderly
Still in peaceful dreams, I see
The road leads back to you

Georgia was unlike any woman that Hoagy and Stuart had ever met. Ray sings this with an emphasis on the state.

I said Georgia, oh Georgia
No peace I find (no peace I find)
Just an old sweet song
Keeps Georgia on my mind (Georgia on my mind)

A song that captures memories of living in and near this state.

Other arms reach out to me
Other eyes smile tenderly

Other women may show interest in the writers of this song.

Still in peaceful dreams, I see
The road leads back to you

But Georgia was the peach of them all.

Whoa-whoa, Georgia, Georgia
No peace, no peace I find
Just an old sweet song
Keeps Georgia on my mind (Georgia on my mind)

Ray Charles influence of reflecting upon peaceful memories of Georgia.

I said, just an old sweet song
Keeps Georgia on my mind

Music has a way of keeping special places and people in our hearts and minds.

Final Thoughts:

As a child, Georgia was always the last state before my family reached Florida for a special Spring Break trip. However, as an adult, I spent nearly 3 years living just east of Georgia in Aiken, South Carolina. The rolling hills and pines etch this landscape. Now when I think of Georgia, I think of the Masters Golf Tournament in Augusta, Georgia.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 4

Posted on August 4, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Kiss – Detroit Rock City (official Video)

Inspiration Behind Detroit Rock City:

Paul Stanley and producer Bob Ezrin originally conceived Detroit Rock City to celebrate this American city. However, the lyrics evolved when a fan was killed in a car accident on the way to a Kiss concert in Charlotte, North Carolina. Subsequently, Detroit Rock City was transformed into a story blending celebration of life with a stark tragedy.

Biblical Application:

My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, 20 remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins, James 5:19-20.

Exegesis of Detroit Rock City:

Controversial deal in another show of congressional reports
President Ford says that he’s disappointed with Congress’s performance
In Detroit, a Pontiac, Michigan youth was reported dead
At the scene of a head-on collision on Grand Avenue this morning
The youth was reportedly driving on the wrong side of the boulevard
When he struck a delivery truck and was catapulted through the windshield of his car
The driver of the truck is reported to be uninjured
The identities of both men are being withheld by local police
County legislatives today are expected to rally to the aid of striking Longshoremen
In hopes of ending the nine month deadlock

This story begins with breaking news about a controversial report by Congress. Like the beginning of local news in Detroit, headlines are read to grab your attention. The car accident death was likely altered since the KISS fan who died was going to a concert in North Carolina. The news ends with a story about port workers on the Great Lakes.

Roll all night and party every day
I wanna rock and roll all night and party every day

Breaking the levity and seriousness of the news with a call to have fun.

I feel uptight on a Saturday night
Nine o’clock, the radio’s the only light
I hear my song and it pulls me through
Comes on strong, tells me what I got to do
I got to

This stanza speaks of an era in radio that no longer exists. Radio stations in the 1970-1980’s played the same songs every hour, often in the same order. Subsequently, the band is waiting for their song to be played.

(Get up) everybody’s gonna move their feet
(Get down) everybody’s gonna leave their seat

A call to get into this concert, be an active participant.

You gotta lose your mind in Detroit Rock City
(Get up) everybody’s gonna move their feet
(Get down) everybody’s gonna leave their seat

Get into this music and let your body take over as you dance the night away.

Getting late, I just can’t wait
Ten o’clock and I know I gotta hit the road
First I drink, then I smoke
Start up the car, and I try to make the midnight show

Perhaps a reference to the fan who died on their way to see KISS live.

(Get up) everybody’s gonna move their feet
(Get down) everybody’s gonna leave their seat

Live life to its fullest.

Movin’ fast, doin’ 95
Hit top speed but I’m still movin’ much too slow
I feel so good, I’m so alive
I hear my song playin’ on the radio
It goes

Music, especially hearing your favorite song has a tendency to make drivers go faster.

(Get up) everybody’s gonna move their feet
(Get down) everybody’s gonna leave their seat

The chorus is repeated. First a story then a chorus.

12 o’clock, I gotta rock
There’s a truck ahead, lights starin’ at my eyes
Oh, my God, no time to turn
I got to laugh ’cause I know I’m gonna die
Why?

A warning to not drink and drive. KISS reached out to authorities or had a reporter collect as much information as possible to sing about this tragic death.

(Get up) everybody’s gonna move their feet

(Get up) everybody’s gonna move their feet

Since life is fragile, get up and dance while you can.

Final Thoughts:

Between 5th grade through college, I lost a dozen classmates to car accidents. My senior year of high school, I was supposed to play a golfer who passed away the night before. When I was a youth pastor, the only time one of my students drove drunk, he passed away. Anyone not paying careful attention while driving puts their vehicle and passengers at risk. Sometimes a stupid mistake results in death. God gives all human beings free will, how you handle this is up to you. Be smart and sober when you drive.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 2

Posted on August 2, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Jason Isbell, The 400 Unit – Alabama Pines

Inspiration Behind Alabama Pines:

Jason writes about the unique native pine species that define Alabama’s natural landscape and cultural identity. While Alabama is home to several specifies, the Longleaf Pine is the state tree. The symbolism behind the Alabama Pines is that despite the warm climate and various soil types, these trees are enduring and resilient. From Jason’s perspective, if these trees can survive over the years, so can I.

Biblical Application:

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, 2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers, Psalm 1:1-3.

Exegesis of Alabama Pines:

[Verse 1]
Well, I moved into this room
If you could call it that, a week ago
I never do what I’m supposed to do
Hardly even know my name anymore
When no one calls it out, it kinda vanishes away

Sounds like Jason is referring to a room in his house that he now calls his office. The songs which once naturally flowed out of his mind and onto a paper have stopped. This lack of progress has impacted his career.

[Verse 2]
I can’t get to sleep at night
The parking lot’s so loud and bright
The A/C hasn’t worked in twenty years
Probably never made a single person cold
But I can’t say the same for me, I’ve done it many times

Jason writes about the barriers and obstacles in his life. While he can’t ever get cold enough, he’s made plenty of people cold and unwelcomed.

[Chorus]
Somebody take me home
Through those Alabama pines

This is why Jason feels the need to return home to Alabama.

[Verse 3]
You can’t drive through Talladega
On a weekend in October
Just head up north to Jacksonville, cut around and over
Watch your speed in Boiling Springs
They ain’t got a thing to do, they’ll get you every time

Jason details his life experiences of living in Alabama, especially where not to speed.

[Chorus]
Somebody take me home
Through those Alabama pines
Somebody take me home
Through those Alabama pines

Alabama holds a special place in Jason’s heart, especially the distinct pines back home.

[Verse 4]
If we pass through on a Sunday
Better make a stop at Wayne’s
It’s the only open liquor store north
And I can’t stand the pain
Of being by myself without a little help on a Sunday afternoon

Jason has turned to alcohol to numb his pain of being alone without any help.

[Verse 5]
Well, I needed that damn woman like a dream needs gasoline
And I tried to be some ancient kind of man
One that’s never seen the beauty in the world
But I tried to chase it down
Tried to make the whole thing mine

Jason hasn’t had much success finding the right woman. Jason has even changed who he is to make things work.

[Chorus]
Somebody take me home
Through those Alabama pines
Somebody take me home
Through those Alabama pines

This rough stretch in life makes Jason want to return home.

[Verse 6]
I’ve been stuck here in this town
If you could call it that, a year or two
I never do what I’m supposed to do
I don’t even need a name anymore
When no one calls it out, it kinda vanishes away

Jason’s career and life is quickly disappearing as the fame he once enjoyed as a country singer has vanished.

[Outro]
No one gives a damn about the things I give a damn about
The liberties that we can’t do without
Seem to disappear like ghosts in the air
When we don’t even care, it truly vanishes away

Society has grown cold, not caring about issues Jason is passionate about. As freedom and liberties slowly disappear, most Americans are distracted, becoming ghosts stuck in their own world. When people stop caring, life falls apart.

Final Thoughts:

There are some sad realities to Jason’s song. People have become so self-absorbed that they are unable to notice what is going on in this country and throughout the world. If you want to endure and be resilient, you have to become deeply rooted and grounded in faith, Colossians 2:6-7, like Alabama Pines.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 1: A Season of Travel

Posted on August 1, 2026 by expressyourself4him

John Parr – St. Elmo’s Fire (Man In Motion) (Official Music Video)

Monthly Theme:

While some states start school in August, this is the final month of summer. The last time families can spend time together before another school year is set in motion. Travel may take you to visit relatives, return home to reconnect with old friends or make new memories in your favorite vacation destination. This season of travel is your last shot at rejuvenating a tired and weary soul, boosting your moral to finish 2026 off strong. Subsequently, August will feature songs with places in the title.

Inspiration Behind St. Elmo’s Fire:

 John Parr co-wrote Man in Motion with producer David Foster. While the initial inspiration came from the 1985 film St. Elmo’s Fire, the man in the lyrics is Canadian athlete Rick Hansen. After a spinal cord injury left Hansen paralyzed from the waist down, Rick began his own tour, a 26‑month wheelchair journey across 34 countries to raise awareness and funds for this cause. Subsequently, part of this song is about the movie and the other is about Rick’s recovery.

Biblical Application:

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you,” Deuteronomy 31:6.

Exegesis of St. Elmo’s Fire:

Growin’ up, you don’t see the writin’ on the wall
Passin’ by, movin’ straight ahead, you knew it all
But maybe sometime if you feel the pain
You’ll find you’re all alone, everythin’ has changed

“St. Elmo’s Fire” follows seven recent college graduates navigating their way through life. These seven individuals confront realities of post-college such as career pressures, relationships and maturity issues. These growing pains result in loneliness, pain and uncertainty.

Play the game, you know you can’t quit until it’s won
Soldier on, only you can do what must be done
You know in some way you’re a lot like me
You’re just a prisoner and you’re tryna break free

While this stanza could apply to the movie, the game suggests this is about Rick Hansen and his road to recovery. Getting used to life in a wheelchair is like a soldier coming back from war with permanent injuries. Rick’s wheelchair tour likely served as a way to help the paralyzed see that they weren’t a prisoner to a wheelchair..

I can see a new horizon underneath the blazin’ sky
I’ll be where the eagle’s flyin’ higher and higher
Gonna be your man in motion, all I need is a pair of wheels
Take me where my future’s lyin’, St. Elmo’s fire

A duel purpose stanza that touches on Rick’s journey to one day walk again as well as the characters within the movie as they mature from students to adults.

Burnin’ up, don’t know just how far that I can go (just how far I go)
Soon be home, only just a few miles down the road
I can make it, I know I can
You broke the boy in me but you won’t break the man

The lyrics suggest this is referring to Rick, broken after his life altering injury. Yet Rick’s wheelchair tour pushed his physical limits, helping him realize that living in a wheelchair for the rest of his life won’t break him.

I can see a new horizon underneath the blazin’ sky
I’ll be where the eagle’s flyin’ higher and higher

An introduction to the chorus relates to the characters in St. Elmo’s Fire as they reach for their dreams in life.

Gonna be your man in motion, all I need is a pair of wheels
Take me where my future’s lyin’, St. Elmo’s fire

Pair of wheels could refer to a new car, but is focused on Rick’s wheelchair and how he now rolls on with life.

I can climb the highest mountain, cross the wildest sea
I can feel St. Elmo’s fire burnin’ in me, burnin’ in me

St. Elmo’s is a bar where these college friends try to catch up on life. After meeting together, some conversations ignite fire and passion to keep pursuing specific goals in life.

Just once in his life a man has his time
And my time is now, I’m comin’ alive

A motivational stanza to come alive by seizing the moment.

I can hear the music playin’, I can see the banners fly
Feel like a man again, I’ll hold my head high
Gonna be your man in motion, all I need is a pair of wheels
Take me where my future’s lyin’, St. Elmo’s fire

Rejuvenated spirits after a night out at the bar. The final portion of this chorus speaks to Rick Hansen’s recovering from his spinal cord injury, giving hope to those who feel their life is over after not being able to walk.

I can see a new horizon underneath the blazin’ sky
I’ll be where the eagle’s flyin’ higher and higher
Gonna be your man in motion, all I need is a pair of wheels
Take me where my future’s lyin’, St. Elmo’s fire

Repeating the chorus as if to reignite hope into those on the verge of giving up on life.

I can climb the highest mountain, cross the wildest sea
I can feel St. Elmo’s fire burnin’ in me
Burnin’, burnin’ in me, I can feel it burnin’
Ooh, burnin’ inside of me

Life isn;t over until you quit. If you keep fighting, you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish.

Final Thoughts:

I was in high school when I watched St. Elmo’s Fire. I recall the ending being disappointing, America’s version of Rick Hansen was Chucky Mullins, a defensive back for Ole Miss football. After being paralyzed like Rick, Chucky became a motivational speaker until his death. I once served as a Chaplin, giving a pregame speech at a University of Delaware football game. I spoke about Chucky is his new life motto after being bound to a wheelchair. “Don’t quit! Don’t ever quit! And never give it! I adopted this in my final years as an athlete fighting back after doctors told me my athletic career was over. This is the fire that still drives me today.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 29

Posted on July 29, 2026 by expressyourself4him

George Michael – Freedom! ’90 (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind Freedom:

Freedom was conceived from George Michael’s deep personal reckoning with fame, identity, and creative control. After the success of Faith in 1987, Michael’s felt trapped by the expectations of having to produce another hit song. Subsequently, Freedom served as a confession and a declaration, reaching a point in his life where he could create content, perform and just be himself.

Biblical Application:

Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. 35 Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed, John 8:34-35.

Exegesis of Freedom:

I won’t let you down
I will not give you up
Gotta have some faith in the sound
It’s the one good thing that I’ve got
I won’t let you down
So please don’t give me up
Because I would really, really love to stick around
Oh, yeah

George is feeling pressure to perform. Previous success has instilled faith within George that he won’t let his agent, producer and record company down. George isn’t ready to retire, wanting to keep his singing career going.

Heaven knows I was just a young boy
Didn’t know what I wanted to be (Didn’t know what I wanted to be)
I was every little hungry schoolgirl’s pride and joy
And I guess it was enough for me (And I guess it was enough for me)

Looking back to his past to see where he came from. Being a heartthrob was good enough for George.

To win the race, a prettier face
Brand new clothes and a big fat place
On your rock and roll TV (Rock and roll TV)
But today the way I play the game is not the same, no way
Think I’m gonna get me some happy

As you get older, it’s harder to maintain your image. George has become wiser with age, content with who he is now.

I think there’s something you should know
(I think it’s time I told you so)
There’s something deep inside of me
(There’s someone else I’ve got to be)
Take back your picture in a frame
(Take back your singing in the rain)
I just hope you understand
Sometimes the clothes do not make the man

This is the confessional part of the lyrics. George reached a point in his life where he stopped carrying about his image. He is trying to explain that there is more to a person than the clothes you wear.

All we have to do now
Is take these lies and make them true somehow
All we have to see
Is that I don’t belong to you and you don’t belong to me, yeah yeah

Image isn’t what you think it is. While George was and may still be viewed as a sex symbol, he is trying to explain that I don’t belong to you and you don’t belong to me.

Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (I will not give you up)
Freedom (Gotta have some faith in the sound)
You’ve got to give what you take (It’s the one good thing that I’ve got)
Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (So please don’t give me up)
Freedom (‘Cause I would really)
You’ve got to give what you take (really love to stick around)

The opening chorus is another confession. Meanwhile, this also reads like a self-help pep talk. Freedom is the spark which will enable George to maintain his stardom.

Heaven knows we sure had some fun, boy
What a kick just a buddy and me (What a kick just a buddy and me)
We had every big-shot goodtime band on the run, boy
We were living in a fantasy (We were living in a fantasy)

George looks back at his start as the lead singer of Wham. Looking back, this was like living a dream.

We won the race, got out of the place
Went back home, got a brand new face for the boys on MTV (Boys on MTV)
But today the way I play the game has got to change, oh yeah
Now I’m gonna get myself happy

George was successful with Wham, but the time came for George to leave, starting his solo career. While the days on MTV were great, Goerge does things different now, content with his new life outside of a band,

I think there’s something you should know
(I think it’s time I stopped the show)
There’s something deep inside of me
(There’s someone I forgot to be)
Take back your picture in a frame
(Don’t think that I’ll I be back again)
I just hope you understand
Sometimes the clothes do not make the man

When everyone told George about his great looks and image, it appears that he didn’t have a friend who was real with him, demonstrating tough love. This led to an identity crisis trying to figure out the man behind his clothes.

All we have to do now
Is take these lies and make them true somehow
All we have to see
Is that I don’t belong to you and you don’t belong to me, yeah yeah

George is sorting things out, trying to figure out the truth behind the lies he was told as an artist.

Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (I will not give you up)
Freedom (Gotta have some faith in the sound)
You got to give what you take
(It’s the one good thing that I’ve got)
Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (So please don’t give me up)
Freedom (‘Cause I would really)
You got to give what you take (really love to stick around)

Freedom came as George began to figure out who he is and what’s really important in life.

Well, it looks like the road to heaven
But it feels like the road to hell
When I knew which side my bread was buttered
I took the knife as well
Posing for another picture
Everybody’s got to sell
But when you shake your ass
They notice fast
And some mistakes were build to last

George is looking for direction in life, what to do in the future. However, he still hasn’t figured things out. Poor decisions in the past, using his body as a sex symbol, has led to regret. Yet, sex sold his music for years.

(That’s what you get)
That’s what you get
(That’s what you get)
I say that’s what you get
(I say that’s what you get for changing your mind)
That’s what you get for changing your mind
(That’s what you get)
(That’s what you get) And after all this time
I just hope you understand
Sometimes the clothes do not make the man

A stanza about regret, possibly referring to his song I Want Your Sex. George is having image problems, trying to explain to his fans that he is not the man behind his former image.

All we have to do now
Is take these lies and make them true somehow
All we have to see
Is that I don’t belong to you
And you don’t belong to me, yeah yeah

George is trying to sort things out to improve his self-esteem.

Freedom (Oh)
Freedom
(My) Freedom
You’ve gotta give for what you take
Freedom (I’ll hold on to my)
Freedom
(My) Freedom
You got to give what, to give what, give what you take
Yeah!
You got to give what, give to what, to give

Freedom comes from being true to yourself and who you are.

May not be what you want from me
Just the way it’s got to be
Lose the face now
I’ve got to live

George is searching for the type of person that he has to be moving forward in life.

Final Thoughts:

I loved Wham when I was in high school. However, when George Michael began his solo career, he started to push the envelope through his dance moves and lyrics. George was like the Madonna of male artists, not going over the top in his music videos like Madonna. The lyrics of Freedom give me hope that George may be maturing and transforming his life as he grows old.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 28

Posted on July 28, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Some Gave All-Billy Ray Cyrus Lyrics

Inspiration Behind Some Gave All:

Some Gave All ended up fulfilling two purposes: a commercial breakthrough and a heartfelt tribute to military service. Billy Ray Cyrus and his first wife, Cindy Smith, wrote Some Gave All in 1991. The idea came during a conversation with a Vietnam veteran. Billy and Cindy were both moved to create a song that honored the sacrifices of those who served.

Biblical Application:

When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John. 42 Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 43 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many,” Mark 10:41-45.

Exegesis of Some Gave All:

I knew a man, called him Sandy Kane
Few folks even knew his name
But a hero, yes, was he
Left a boy, came back a man
Still, many just don’t understand
About the reasons we are free

The Vietnam vet that Billy and Cindy met. So many Vietnam veterans went unrecognized. Sandy left as a teenager and returned to America as a man, full of deep wounds to his soul.

I can’t forget the look in his eyes
Or the tears he cried
As he said these words to me

These stories are heart breaking, making others cry. Sandy poured out his heart to Billy and Cindy.

All gave some, and some gave all
And some stood through for the red, white, and blue
And some had to fall
And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall
Some gave all

While not everyone died in action, many returned scarred for life. However, when you consider the freedom within America, remember that some gave all.

Now Sandy Kane is no longer here
But his words are, oh, so clear
As they echo throughout our land
For all his friends who gave us all

Sandy passed away before this song was finished. Yet the words spoken to Billy and Cindy remain loud and clear. This song is for the service men and women who gave us all they had.

Who stood the ground and took the fall
To help their fellow man

These individuals died for freedom that America still possesses.

Love your country and live with pride
And don’t forget those who died
America, can’t you see?

A call for patriotism, remembering the sacrifices that were made in the past.

All gave some, and some gave all
And some stood through for the red, white, and blue
And some had to fall
And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall
Some gave all

Another chorus with images of laying your life down, standing up for the American flag and what it represents. Don’t take your liberties for granted as someone gave their life for freedom.

And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall
Yes, recall
Some gave all
Some gave all

Sandy wanted to be remembered instead of heckled like other Vietnam vets. Don’t forget about my friends who gave up their lives for freedom.

Final Thoughts:

One of my former high school teammates, Tom Carr, recently passed away. I had lunch with Tom before moving to South Carolina. The Gulf War really messed him up, suffering from PTSD. While Tom made it back home after fulfilling his years of service, he was never the same. May Some Gave All remind you of all the Tom Carr’s in your life.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 26

Posted on July 26, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Sister Sledge – We Are Family (Official Music Video)

Inspiration Behind We Are Family:

When Atlantic Records president Jerry. Greenberg introduced Niles Rodgers and Bernard Edwards to the members of Sister Sledge, there was an instant connection. Despite being strangers prior to meeting, it was like Niles and Bernard was part of their extended family. Subsequently, when We Are Family was written, this song was about sisters, and the universal idea of unity.

Biblical Application:

I appeal to you, brothers and sisters,[a] in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought, 1 Corinthians 1:10.

Exegesis of We Are Family:

We are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up everybody and sing

Introducing the group as sisters in the same family. A call to sing and dance.

We are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up everybody and sing

Repeating as if to get their audience involved in singing along.

Everyone can see we’re together
As we walk on by
(And!) and we fly just like birds of a feather
I won’t tell no lie
(All!) all of the people around us they say
Can they be that close
Just let me state for the record
We’re giving love in a family dose

We treat each other as family. Meanwhile, get along, sharing common interests. While some people question if we are really close, we’re telling the truth. This is made possible with daily doses of love.

We are family (a-a-a-ay a)
I got all my sisters with me (oh-ah-oh-ah, ah)
We are family

This is who we are, family.

Get up everybody and sing

Join us as we sing.

We are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up everybody and sing

Repeating the chorus to make it easier to sing along.

Living life is fun and we’ve just begun
To get our share of the world’s delights
(High!) high hopes we have, for the future
And our goal’s in sight
(We!) no we don’t get depressed
‘Cause here’s what we call our golden rule
Have faith in you and the things you do
You won’t go wrong, oh no
This is our family jewel

We’ve just begun living as we enjoy the fruits of our labor singing. We still have future dreams and goals in our sight. Depression doesn’t faze us as we live by a golden rule: having faith and things will go well with you. This family motto is like a jewel.

We are family (a-a-a ayy-a)
I got all my sisters with me (oh-ah, oh-ah-ah)
We are family (i got my sisters with me)
Get up everybody and sing (every body a-a)

Wrapping up with several choruses. Putting juice in the crowd to encourage participation.

We are family (na-na-na, ay-a)
I got all my sisters with me (tell him come home and see me too)
We are family (say it, say it you better)
Get up everybody and sing

Don’t drift apart. Come home and stay awhile. Speak family into existence by saying it.

We are family (a-a-a ay-a)
I got all my sisters with me (oh-ah, oh-ah-ah)
We are family (na-na-na no-o)
Get up everybody and sing

This is who Sister Sledge is, family.

We are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up everybody and sing

Stick with your family members.

Final Thoughts:

The 1979 Pittsburgh Pirates adopted this song on their way to winning the World Series. Since my Phillies won their first title a year later, I didn’t mind waiting one more season. In this day and age, family members come on go, caught up in life, trying to survive. However, the more you promote family by making this a priority, the more likely you will be in staying together in the future. While celebrating Thanksgiving and Christmas may be a drag for individuals without a strong family, these 2 holidays provide an opportunity to get caught up with how everything is going. Reach out to family in their living years.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 25

Posted on July 25, 2026 by expressyourself4him

John Denver – Take Me Home, Country Roads (Official Audio)

Inspiration Behind Take Me Home Country Roads:

While driving along Clopper Road in Maryland, songwriters Bill Danoff and Taffy Nivert were inspired to write Take Me Home, Country Roads. On the way to a family reunion, they began to create a song about winding country roads. However, since Maryland didn’t fit into their chorus, Bill and Taffy both imagined West Virginia to be just as beautiful. John Denver added his input as this song was later released in 1971.

Biblical Application:

In his hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him.5 The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land, Psalm 95:4-5.

Exegesis of Take Me Home, Country Roads:

Almost heaven, West Virginia
Blue ridge mountains, Shenandoah river
Life is old there, older than the trees
Younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze

Viewing the mountains from winding country roads provided heavenly views of Maryland, replaced by West Virginia. As someone who lives 5 miles from the Blue Ridge Mountains and drove by Shenandoah National Park every day after work, this area is beautiful.

Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mamma
Take me home, country roads

Imagery like a scene from the first Cars movie of the back roads. Seeing this scenery makes you want to find a place to call home.

All my memories gather ’round her
Miner’s lady, stranger to blue water
Dark and dusty, painted on the sky
Misty taste of moonshine, teardrop in my eye

Imagines of life in the mountains: coal mining, logging the mountains and moonshine. The sights of these mountains are breathtaking, making some emotional.

Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mamma
Take me home, country roads

Repeating the chorus. Embracing the mountains, calling this special place home.

I hear her voice, in the morning hour she calls me
Radio reminds me of my home far away

Who needs a television when you can look up at the mountains.

Driving down the road I get a feeling
That I should have been home yesterday, yesterday

There is something special about traveling through the mountains.

Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mamma
Take me home, country roads

Mountain mamma could refer to generations who refuse to move away from their home in the mountains.

Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mamma
Take me home, country roads

Going back home brings back memories from your childhood.

Take me home, country roads
Take me home, country roads

The desire to go back where you grew up, eager to see how things have changed and how they have remained the same.

Final Thoughts:

My first teaching position was at a boarding school in the Monongahela National Forest. Living at a summer camp, students were removed from a bad home situation and were able to thrive without any distractions except the mountains. Sitting outside during limited free time, I began writing poetry, inspired by the scenery surrounding me. Before this semester ended, I even began writing songs, finishing 12 that were inspired by this beautiful setting in West Virginia.

by Jay Mankus

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