About the song
The year was 1969, a time of significant social and political upheaval. Amidst the turbulent backdrop of the late 1960s, **Elvis Presley**, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, released a song that would resonate deeply with audiences for generations to come: **”In The Ghetto”**. This poignant ballad, penned by Mac Davis, marked a departure from the upbeat, energetic tunes that had defined Elvis’s earlier career. Instead, it offered a somber reflection on the cycle of poverty and inequality.
**”In The Ghetto”** is more than just a song; it’s a social commentary. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young boy born into a world of hardship, doomed to repeat the mistakes of his father. Elvis’s soulful vocals, combined with the haunting melody, create a powerful emotional impact. The track serves as a poignant reminder of the systemic issues that can trap individuals and communities in a cycle of poverty.
What sets **”In The Ghetto”** apart is its universality. While the song is rooted in the specific experiences of African Americans living in impoverished urban areas, its message transcends race and geography. It speaks to the human condition, exploring themes of hope, despair, and the enduring power of the human spirit. Elvis’s decision to record this song was a bold move, as it allowed him to use his immense popularity to address serious social issues.
The song’s impact was immediate and lasting. It climbed the charts, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100. **”In The Ghetto”** also garnered critical acclaim, solidifying Elvis’s reputation as a versatile artist capable of tackling complex and challenging subject matter. The song’s timeless appeal is evident in its enduring popularity today, with new generations discovering its power and relevance.
**Elvis Presley’s** rendition of **”In The Ghetto”** is a testament to his ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level. By tackling the difficult topic of poverty and inequality, Elvis used his platform to raise awareness and promote social change. This song remains a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, compassion, and the fight for a more just and equitable society.
Video
Lyrics
As the snow flies
On a cold and gray Chicago mornin’
A poor little baby child is born
In the ghetto
(In the ghetto)
And his mama cries
‘Cause if there’s one thing that she don’t need
It is another hungry mouth to feed
In the ghetto
(In the ghetto)
People, don’t you understand
The child needs a helping hand
Or he’ll grow to be an angry young man some day
Take a look at you and me
Are we too blind to see?
Do we simply turn our heads
And look the other way
Well, the world turns
And a hungry little boy with a runny nose
Plays in the street as the cold wind blows
In the ghetto
(In the ghetto)
And his hunger burns
So he starts to roam the streets at night
And he learns how to steal
And he learns how to fight
In the ghetto
(In the ghetto)
Then one night in desperation
The young man breaks away
He buys a gun, steals a car
Tries to run, but he don’t get far
And his mama cries
As a crowd gathers ’round an angry young man
Face down on the street with a gun in his hand
In the ghetto
(In the ghetto)
And as her young man dies
(In the ghetto)
On a cold and gray Chicago mornin’
Another little baby child is born
In the ghetto
(In the ghetto)
And his mama cries
(In the ghetto)
(In the ghetto)
(Ah)
