In the Ghetto – Elvis Presley – 1969

About The Song

“In the Ghetto” is a socially conscious song recorded by Elvis Presley in 1969, addressing the cycle of poverty and crime in urban neighborhoods. The song, written by Mac Davis, became a significant hit for Presley, marking a departure from his typical musical themes.

Five facts about “In the Ghetto – Elvis Presley – 1969”:

1. Socially Conscious Theme: “In the Ghetto” addresses social issues, telling the story of a young man born into poverty in Chicago and the tragic consequences of his life. The song reflects on the cyclical nature of poverty and crime, and its impact on individuals and communities.
2. Commercial Success: Released as a single in 1969, “In the Ghetto” became a major hit for Elvis Presley. It reached the top of the charts in the United States and several other countries, becoming one of his more socially relevant and successful songs.
3. Album Inclusion: The song is part of Elvis’s album “From Elvis in Memphis,” which marked his return to a more authentic and diverse musical style. The album, released in the same year, received critical acclaim and showcased Presley’s versatility.
4. Collaboration and Production: The recording of “In the Ghetto” took place at American Sound Studio in Memphis, under the guidance of producer Chips Moman. The collaboration resulted in a series of recordings that captured the essence of Presley’s emotive vocals and the overall authenticity of his performance.
5. Impact: “In the Ghetto” is often cited as one of Elvis Presley’s most socially conscious and impactful songs. Its themes remain relevant, and the song has been covered by various artists over the years. The song’s success demonstrated Presley’s ability to transcend traditional genres and connect with audiences on a deeper level.

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)