Did you know?
- Background: “In the Ghetto” was written by Mac Davis and originally titled “The Vicious Circle.” It was recorded by Elvis Presley as part of his album “From Elvis in Memphis.” The song was a departure from Elvis’s typical rock and roll style, delving into more socially conscious themes.
- Lyrics: The song tells the story of a child born into poverty in a disadvantaged urban neighborhood, or “the ghetto,” and the cycle of hardship and struggle that often continues throughout their life.
- Chart Success: “In the Ghetto” was well-received both critically and commercially. It reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remains one of Elvis’s memorable and thought-provoking songs.
- Social Significance: The song’s powerful and emotional lyrics made it a commentary on the pressing social issues
- Legacy: “In the Ghetto” is often cited as one of Elvis Presley’s most meaningful and socially conscious songs. It showcases his ability to convey deep emotions through his music and adds depth to his catalog of hits.
- Cover Versions: The song has been covered by various artists over the years, but Elvis Presley’s rendition remains the most well-known and enduring.
“In the Ghetto” is a testament to Elvis Presley’s versatility as an artist, as it allowed him to address societal issues through his music while maintaining his distinct vocal and musical style. The song
Video
Lyrics
“In The Ghetto”
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
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