Silence Is Golden Song By The Tremeloes
About The Song
“Elvis Presley – In the Ghetto” is a poignant and socially conscious song by the legendary Elvis Presley. Released in 1969, the song addresses the cycle of poverty and violence in the inner city, particularly focusing on the struggles of a young boy born into difficult circumstances. Here’s an overview of key details about the song:
Title: In the Ghetto
Artist: Elvis Presley
Release Date: 1969
Album: From Elvis in Memphis
Writers: Mac Davis
Key Themes:
- Social Injustice: The song addresses the harsh realities of poverty, social inequality, and violence in the inner city, highlighting the struggles faced by individuals born into such circumstances.
- Generational Cycle: “In the Ghetto” explores the idea of a generational cycle, depicting how a child born into poverty often faces a difficult life and, tragically, might meet a similar fate.
Musical Style:
- Country Soul: The song features a blend of country and soul influences, with Elvis Presley’s emotive vocals at the forefront. The arrangement incorporates acoustic guitars and soulful orchestration to complement the weighty subject matter.
Cultural Impact:
- Chart Success: “In the Ghetto” was a commercial success, reaching high chart positions in the United States and internationally. It marked a departure from Elvis’s typical rock ‘n’ roll sound, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
- Critical Acclaim: The song received critical acclaim for its powerful lyrics and Elvis’s heartfelt delivery, earning recognition beyond its commercial success.
Legacy:
- Socially Conscious Anthem: “In the Ghetto” stands as one of Elvis Presley’s most socially conscious and impactful songs. It remains relevant as a powerful commentary on societal issues.
- Cover Versions: The song has been covered by various artists, testifying to its enduring relevance and resonance. Artists from different genres have interpreted the song, further emphasizing its universal themes.
- Cultural and Humanitarian Legacy: Elvis’s decision to record a song with such a strong social message reflects his willingness to engage with pressing issues. The song has contributed to Elvis’s legacy not only as a musical icon but as an artist unafraid to address important social concerns through his work.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
As the snow fliesOn a cold and gray Chicago mornin’A poor little baby child is bornIn the ghetto(In the ghetto)
And his mama cries‘Cause if there’s one thing that she don’t needIt is another hungry mouth to feedIn the ghetto(In the ghetto)
People, don’t you understandThe child needs a helping handOr he’ll grow to be an angry young man some dayTake a look at you and meAre we too blind to see?Do we simply turn our headsAnd look the other way
Well, the world turnsAnd a hungry little boy with a runny nosePlays in the street as the cold wind blowsIn the ghetto(In the ghetto)
And his hunger burnsSo he starts to roam the streets at nightAnd he learns how to stealAnd he learns how to fightIn the ghetto(In the ghetto)
Then one night in desperationThe young man breaks awayHe buys a gun, steals a carTries to run, but he don’t get farAnd his mama cries
As a crowd gathers ’round an angry young manFace down on the street with a gun in his handIn 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 bornIn the ghetto(In the ghetto)
And his mama cries(In the ghetto)(In the ghetto)(Ah)