About the song
Few songs in the career of **Elvis Presley** have carried as much quiet weight and social resonance as **Elvis Presley – In The Ghetto**. Released in 1969, during a period of deep societal unrest in America, this song marked a turning point in Presley’s musical direction. Known predominantly for his role in rock and roll’s early explosion, the King of Rock and Roll surprised many with this stark, soul-stirring narrative—a departure from his typical romantic ballads and hip-shaking hits.
**Elvis Presley – In The Ghetto** tells a somber, cyclical tale of poverty and violence, set in the unforgiving urban landscape of Chicago. The lyrics—written by Mac Davis—paint a heartbreaking portrait of a boy born into destitution, caught in a system that offers him little more than struggle, resentment, and ultimately, a tragic end. With a gentle but haunting melody, the song shines a light on the systemic issues that trap generations in hardship. It’s a protest song, yes, but delivered with such grace and empathy that it transcends politics and goes straight to the listener’s heart.
For older listeners, especially those who lived through the late 1960s, **In The Ghetto** may stir memories not only of the Vietnam era and civil rights movement, but also of the broader questions society was beginning to ask about justice, inequality, and the American dream. Presley’s restrained, respectful vocal performance reflects his maturity as an artist—and his desire to use his platform for more than mere entertainment.
It’s worth noting how rare it was, particularly at the time, for a mainstream white artist of Presley’s stature to tackle such themes. That’s part of what makes **Elvis Presley – In The Ghetto** so remarkable. It isn’t just a song—it’s a moment of reflection from an artist who understood his influence and chose to use it in a deeply human way. Even decades later, the song’s quiet urgency remains powerful, and its message, sadly, still relevant.
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’s another hungry mouth to feed
In the ghetto (In the ghetto)People, don’t you understand
A child needs a helping hand
Or he’ll grow to be an angry young man someday
A-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)
