About the song
“In the Ghetto,” released in 1969, stands as a poignant testament to **Elvis Presley’s** artistic evolution and his deep-seated empathy. This track, far removed from his earlier rock ‘n’ roll anthems, delves into the harsh realities of poverty and social inequality. Composed by Mac Davis, the song’s narrative unfolds in the impoverished streets of Chicago, where a child born into destitution is trapped in a cycle of despair.
Presley’s rendition of “In the Ghetto” is nothing short of transformative. His voice, imbued with a newfound depth and resonance, conveys the song’s somber message with remarkable sincerity. Gone are the days of hip-shaking and rebellious swagger; instead, we witness a mature artist grappling with profound societal issues. The song’s arrangement, characterized by its understated elegance, further accentuates the gravity of its subject matter. The gentle strumming of acoustic guitars, the mournful strings, and the subdued rhythm section create an atmosphere of quiet reflection, allowing Presley’s vocals to take center stage.
“In the Ghetto” resonated deeply with audiences worldwide, striking a chord with those who recognized the song’s universal themes of hardship and injustice. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message, which remains relevant even today. Presley’s performance, marked by its emotional intensity and unwavering conviction, elevates “In the Ghetto” beyond a mere musical composition; it becomes a powerful social commentary, a plea for compassion and understanding.
For those of us who have journeyed through life’s ups and downs, “In the Ghetto” serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by countless individuals. It prompts us to reflect on our own roles in society and to consider how we might contribute to creating a more equitable world. Presley’s legacy, forever intertwined with this iconic track, extends beyond his status as a musical legend; he becomes a voice for the voiceless, a champion for the marginalized.
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)
