“In The Ghetto” is one of Elvis Presley’s most powerful and socially conscious songs, released in 1969. Written by Mac Davis, it addresses the cycle of poverty and violence in urban America, particularly focusing on the plight of a young boy born into difficult circumstances.
The song opens with haunting simplicity, with Elvis’s emotive voice accompanied only by an acoustic guitar. The sparse arrangement draws listeners in, allowing them to focus on the starkness of the lyrics and the gravity of the song’s message. As the song progresses, gentle orchestration swells, adding layers of emotion and intensity to the narrative.
“In The Ghetto” tells the story of a young boy named Jimmy, who grows up in the inner city. Despite his mother’s best efforts to provide for him, Jimmy finds himself drawn into a life of poverty and crime. The song vividly depicts the harsh realities of urban life, from the struggles of single parenthood to the lure of street gangs and violence.
One of the most poignant moments in the song comes in the chorus, where Elvis sings, “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.” These lines underscore the heartbreaking cycle of poverty and despair that traps so many families in impoverished neighborhoods.
“In The Ghetto” struck a chord with audiences upon its release, resonating with listeners of all backgrounds. Its message of social justice and empathy transcended genre boundaries, earning praise from both fans and critics alike. The song reached the top of the charts in multiple countries, cementing its status as one of Elvis’s most iconic tracks.
Beyond its commercial success, “In The Ghetto” also sparked important conversations about poverty, inequality, and social change. It prompted listeners to confront uncomfortable truths about the realities of life for many people living in underserved communities, inspiring calls for action and reform.
Decades after its release, “In The Ghetto” remains a powerful reminder of Elvis Presley’s enduring legacy as more than just a rock and roll icon. It showcases his willingness to use his platform to address important social issues and advocate for change. Through its timeless message and stirring melody, the song continues to inspire listeners to reflect on the world around them and consider how they can make a difference in the lives of others.
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Lyric
🎵 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 ano ther 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)
