About the Song
“In the Ghetto” is a song recorded by Elvis Presley. It was written by Mac Davis and first released in 1969. The song tells the story of a young man who grows up in the poverty-stricken ghetto of Chicago and ultimately meets a tragic fate.
Here are some key details about the song:
- Release Date: “In the Ghetto” was released in April 1969 as a single from Elvis Presley’s album “From Elvis in Memphis.”
- Theme: The song addresses the cycle of poverty and violence that often plagues inner-city neighborhoods. It reflects on the struggles faced by those living in impoverished conditions and the potential consequences of such environments.
- Narrative: The lyrics describe the life of a young boy born into poverty in the ghetto. Despite his mother’s efforts to provide for him, he ultimately becomes involved in crime and violence. The song culminates in tragedy as the boy is shot and killed, highlighting the grim realities of life in the ghetto.
- Impact: “In the Ghetto” was a commercial success for Elvis Presley, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also received critical acclaim for its poignant lyrics and powerful storytelling.
- Legacy: The song has been covered by various artists over the years and remains one of Elvis Presley’s most iconic and enduring tracks. It continues to resonate with audiences as a timeless commentary on social issues and inequality.
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 is another hungry mouth to feed
In the ghetto
(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
(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
(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
(In the ghetto)
And as her young man dies
(In the ghetto)
On a cold and gray Chicago mornin’
Another little baby child is born
In the ghetto
(In the ghetto)
And his mama cries
(In the ghetto)
(In the ghetto)
(Ah)