Elvis Presley – In The Ghetto (Music Video) (1969)

Introduction:

Elvis Presley’s “In the Ghetto” is a poignant ballad that delves into the cycle of poverty and violence often perpetuated within marginalized communities. Released in 1969 as part of his critically acclaimed album From Elvis in Memphis, the song quickly became a chart-topping hit, solidifying Presley’s position as a cultural icon.

The song’s lyrics, penned by songwriter Mac Davis, paint a vivid picture of a child born into a life of hardship. Raised in a ghetto, surrounded by poverty and crime, the protagonist finds himself trapped in a vicious cycle of violence and despair. The song explores themes of generational trauma, social injustice, and the devastating consequences of systemic racism.

“In the Ghetto” is a powerful example of Presley’s evolution as an artist. While he had previously been associated with upbeat rock and roll hits, this song demonstrated his ability to tackle more serious and socially relevant issues. The song’s soulful melody and Presley’s heartfelt delivery resonated with audiences, making it a timeless anthem of protest and compassion.

The song’s impact was immediate. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a global hit, earning Presley a Grammy nomination. “In the Ghetto” also solidified Presley’s position as a relevant and influential figure in popular culture, proving that his music could transcend genres and generations.

Beyond its commercial success, “In the Ghetto” has endured as a powerful social commentary. The song’s message of hope and resilience in the face of adversity continues to inspire and resonate with audiences today. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice, and the importance of breaking free from the cycles of poverty and violence.

Video:

Lyrics:

“In The Ghetto”

As the snow flies
On a cold and gray Chicago mornin’
A poor little baby child is born
In the ghettoAnd 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