About The Song
Elvis Presley's "In the Ghetto," released in 1969, stands as a powerful musical commentary on societal inequality and the cycle of poverty. Written by Mac Davis, the song delves into the struggles faced by a young boy born into poverty in the inner city. With its poignant lyrics and Presley's emotive delivery, the song tackles themes of social injustice, economic disparity, and the impact of systemic issues on individual lives.
The narrative of "In the Ghetto" unfolds as a tragic tale, following the life of a young boy born in the impoverished neighborhood, or "ghetto," of Chicago. The song vividly paints a picture of the challenges faced by families in such environments, grappling with the harsh realities of crime, violence, and economic hardship. Elvis Presley, known for his charismatic stage presence and versatile vocal range, lends a haunting sincerity to the lyrics, making the listener acutely aware of the gravity of the situation.
The chorus of the song delivers a powerful message, underscoring the cyclical nature of poverty and its impact on future generations. Presley's emotive rendition of lines like "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" amplifies the emotional weight of the narrative. The repetition of the phrase "In the ghetto" serves as a somber refrain, driving home the point that the challenges faced by those in impoverished communities are systemic and enduring.
"In the Ghetto" was released during a tumultuous period in American history marked by social unrest, civil rights movements, and heightened awareness of economic disparities. The song resonated with audiences as a poignant social commentary, drawing attention to the need for societal change and compassion for those trapped in the cycle of poverty. Presley's decision to tackle such a serious and socially relevant theme showcased his desire to use his platform for more than just entertainment, making a statement about the state of the world and the responsibility of society to address its most pressing issues.
Despite its somber subject matter, "In the Ghetto" is ultimately a call to action. The song challenges listeners to confront the stark realities faced by marginalized communities and advocates for a collective effort to break the cycle of poverty. Elvis Presley's rendition of this socially conscious ballad endures as a testament to the enduring power of music to raise awareness, evoke empathy, and inspire positive change. Through "In the Ghetto," Presley not only left a musical legacy but also contributed to the broader cultural conversation surrounding social justice and the ongoing pursuit of equality.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
As the snow flies
On a cold and gray Chicago mornin'
A poor little baby child is born
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
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
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
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
And as her young man dies,
On a cold and gray Chicago mornin',
Another little baby child is born
In the ghetto
And his mama cries