This song was written by Mac Davis in 1969. RCA and Col. Parker told Elvis not to record this song. Elvis said "I'm recording this song" and walked out. Plus, once his backup singers, the Sweet Inspirations, were with Elvis down South for a show. The hotel Elvis was going to stay in said his back-up singers had to stay somewhere else. Elvis told the manager, if they can't stay here neither will I. Elvis was born in Tupelo MS. in a 2 room shack. He moved to Memphis with his parents when he was 12. They were dirt poor and lived in the projects. Elvis used to go to the black church sometimes, just to listen to the Gospel music. He loved R& B also. He was good friends with BB King and used to go to his club in Memphis. Elvis was color blind. He respected all people and shame on some of the young black entertainers who talk trash about him. Elvis broke barriers back in the day. How many entertainers would go on a stage in Las Vegas full of a predominately white audience and sing "In The Ghetto", only Elvis. He was also good friends with Sammy Davis Jr. This country will never really be at it's greatest until people come together as Americans and stop letting Political Parties divide us for their own personal agendas.
You said it all you said it right we all need to pull together because if we keep going down the same road that keeps splitting us up and not voting a good leader for our country America we will fail and our enemies will not be concerned about us we will be locked up and live by their rules we need to make a change and now
Frank Sinatra did the same thing for Sammy down south. I think it was Dean Martin who got up in the venues owners face along with Frank (and his Italian body guards) - they told him there would be no show if Sammy wasn't allowed to perform. He performed 😂
I grew up in the 60s and honestly didn't like some of his earlier stuff. But when he came out with In The Ghetto and Don't Cry Daddy I took notice. He had a good heart and bad demons.
You are my favorite song analyzer. I'll repeat the same song just to feel your reaction. As to your saying "You don't have to be one of us", listening to this kind of poetry makes us one, opens our hearts. Mac Davis understanding how a mother's heart can break in so many ways is so powerful. Blessings.
Country musician Mac Davis wrote this. Elvis was born and lived in a small house his dad built in Tupelo Mississippi. His dad got into legal trouble going to prison. They lost the house and moved to housing complex in Memphis where he lived as a youth and teen. He wasn't born in any ghetto.
No he wasn't likely born in a ghetto. But partially raised in a housing project in Memphis, apparently. It doesn't really matter with singers and songwriters who can empathize with other backgrounds or people they meet that did grow up disadvantaged..He is not singing his own bio.
Elvis was from Tupelo Mississippi. He grew up dirt poor and he lived this song - except ....He had a voice and found a way to make it out of poverty by singing
Exactly! He never said the little boy was black, just poor, and there were tons of poor white children in the South. I knew some poor white children, teeth rotted dirt poor.
Mac Davis wrote this, country musician. Elvis sang with the black folks in Tupelo on their porches,blues, they taught him as a kid. It wasn't to become famous then. Boy soamy of you who weren't born or fans of his when he was alive, watch a movie that wasn't accurate and think you know him. We were fans when he was alive,collected everything about him.
I saw Elvis in person in Asheville, NC, not long before his death. Someone shouted, “You’re the King.” He stopped everything, and very solemnly said; “There’s only one King, and that’s King Jesus.”
2020, he called racist,got worse !!,,Can't fixed ,if you don't admit. Just like being alcoholics and drug addicts, they can't help them if they don't think there's a problem.
Unless you grew up in this era, you really don’t know how courageous Elvis was about pushing back against and breaking down racial barriers. Watching it in real time in the era of the civil rights movement, it was clear to see who had a backbone and the resolve to stand their ground, come what may. There was a real and admirable respect for those who quietly stood their ground, without resorting to violence or lawlessness. It was truly something to behold.
He grew up poor in A black neighborhood. He loved everybody and I lived this era. This took guts in A charged racial climate. He was the first white dude to hire a lot of black singers to sing with him. He was inspired by black gospel music and actually wanted to be a gospel singer. Thank you for remembering Elvis he was a nice guy. Another great song "Walk A Mile in My Shoes" Vegas 1970. Thanks Be Blessed
Elvis grew up in the Mississippi ghetto (moving to Memphis, Tennessee when he was 13) and was a part of the culture as much as any black child. Because he wasn't black and had star power he was able to speak/sing about issues others couldn't get away with. He was hugely active and played a major role in the civil rights movement. It makes me sad when I hear young generations saying he was racist. That couldn't have been further from the truth.
I always like to remind people that poor is poor. Black, white, yellow, or pink; Elvis, Cash, or Dolly Parton. A lot of the racial division is pushed by rich people who don't want poor people to realize they have more in common with other poor people. Colour doesn't matter.
Exactly he's talking like that in 1970. This dude wasn't doing social justice warrior BS for Instagram brownie points. He grew up in plight and he felt connected to his fellow people that were born with obstacles.
@@jennyjorgensen9935 Elvis didn't frow up in the ghetto, he spent some time there. You do know Mac offered to a black artist first right? Here's a question, if Elvis cared so much about when did he speak about it? If you answer it will be an interesting read, but I think it is a baffling question.
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425Elvis was the only one with the clout to get this song recorded and published. The record companies were afraid of the song but elvis was too famous to ignore
What a lot of people don't know is before this performance the producers of the show said that he could not have his background singers on stage with him because they were African-American. Including Whitney Houston's mom who was one of Elvis's background singers. And Elvis turned to them and said if they cannot be on stage with me then I will not do the show. And as you see the show went on so Elvis has always been a advocate for equal rights and opportunities for all people
Reminds me of the Beatles being told one of their shows in the south had to be segregated, and their response was to tell the venue it was either gonna be an unsegregated show or there wouldn't be a show at all.
With the utmost respect, that is not true. You are thinking of the performance at the Houston Astrodome in 1970 where he was told he could leave the "black girls" behind and he refused. This performance was in Las Vegas and there was no issue with the Sweet Inspirations. They backed him from the very start in Las Vegas without issue.
After the producer told him that, Elvis yelled at his crew ….” pack it up, we’re leaving” ! Instead of screaming racism…..he got his point across “in a flash”. I sure miss him.
Elvis loved every one and tried to many people as much he can did not came much of fame and money just love to entertain and be very giving and generous, a special man everybody adored
He’s from Tupelo Mississippi and was raised pretty poor and his father went to prison and it hit even worse. When he moved to Memphis to try and get a break, they lived in the projects there too. He truly understood this song and lived it. Elvis was true blue and never forgot where he came from and helped people all he could.
Amen truth right there, I used to cry every time I heard this song, Elvis was a southern gentleman, good hearted, his mamma was a Christian and raised him right, he was blessed to come out of it.
Thanks for your reaction. Elvis was born on January 8, 1935 in Tupelo, Mississippi, in a 2 room shack of a house his dad built with money he borrowed from his boss. That's how dirt poor they were. He was one half of identical twins; the other boy - Jesse Garon - was stillborn. They were so poor, that Jesse Garon was buried in a shoebox in an unmarked grave. At Graceland they have a plaque with his name on it in his memory. Elvis always got along with the black community and learned a lot about music from his friends of color. Also, according to the one drop rule, Elvis would not be considered white, since he has Cherokee ancestors on both the Smith (his mother) and the Presley (his father) sides of the family. His paternal grandfather, Jesse Dunning Presley, was not happy that his two sons, Elvis' father Vernon and his brother Vester, married two sisters, Gladys and Clettes who were known to have Cherokee blood in their family tree. J.D. Presley was quite the racist a-hole, often drunk and a philandering husband to Minnie Mae (they were actually separated long before they finally divorced in 1954) who was always competing with his sons Vester and Vernon and who was known to abuse his kids when drunk. J.D. was was publicly against race mixing and was in denial about the Cherokee blood in his own family tree. It was more publicly known that the Smith family had Native blood in their family tree, so when both his sons fell for 2 Smith sisters and Vernon, on top of that, was still a minor at 17 when he eloped with Gladys who was 4 years older than him, Jesse was totally pissed off. As a child, Elvis already had many friends in the black community at the time his family was one of 4 "white" families that lived in the predominantly black neighborhood The Hill, just across from Shake Rag. His childhood friend Sam Bell said that some of the (black) kids in that neighborhood had lighter skin than Elvis (th-cam.com/video/LrFCyNMvZWk/w-d-xo.html). One of Elvis' bodyguards once said that he thought it was a miracle Elvis got into Humes High School in Memphis, because it was "lily white". Elvis wanted to be more open about his Native ancestry, but his manager "colonel" Tom Parker (real name Andreas van Kuijk) was against it because he was afraid it might cost Elvis fans (and himself money). They did have Elvis play characters in his movies though where he had Native American blood (Flaming Star, G.I. Blues, Stay Away Joe). Once Elvis had his own (apprentice) job learning to be an electrician, he saved up his money and bought his clothes in the same style that many of his friends of color wore. He was called a (forgive me, just stating facts here) "n-lover" and got beaten up several times too. Later, when he was an established star, he would not perform at places where the members of color of his back-up band/orchestra weren't allowed.
Thank you for sharing this info. Knowing his family background gives me an even better understanding of the man. I was born in '56 in Texas. My I didn't know I had Cherokee blood til I was 13. When I asked my Mom why no one told me she said it's just not something you talk about in the south. I told her well I'm proud of it cause everything in me makes me what I am. It was her mother was 1/2 Cherokee. But by time I came along her hair was gray and cut short. Mom said when grannies was young she had jet black hair down her back. I was born with black hair then it turned blonde by time I was 10 months old.But oddly I still have a black stroke in my widows peak even now amongst the gray lol. The blond came from her daddy who was German descent. I'm a real mixed bag 😅😅
If there was a 2nd room, it was the bathroom, because the house is one room with a pot belly stove for his mama to cook and heat the house on chilly southern evenings.
@@kennethcurtis1856 They had an outhouse. I've visited the house and it's a shotgun house, meaning you can shoot a gun from the front door and out through the back door, so the house isn't two complete rooms but rather like a half-wall separation.
Elvis was a beautiful soul who loved people. His life is so tragic. He was taken advantage of, driven to near bankruptcy by a corrupt manager, and was basically forced to work an insane schedule just to keep from losing everything. All of this drove him to drugs which ultimately damaged his body beyond help and caused his early death. Such a great talent, such a vulnerable person, such a tragic end. “What shall it profit a man should he gain the whole world and lose his soul?”
Elvis gave away a lot of his money as well. For instance he was driving and came upon an old couple broke down on the side of the road in a beat up pickup truck. Elvis stopped picked them up and brought them to a car lot and bought them a new truck. Then followed them back to their broke truck and helped them transfer their load from the old truck to their new one.
This was my oldest brother's favorite song.. He was a Marine and served in Vietnam.. He returned a hero just to be killed by a drunk driver shortly after, leaving behind his pregnant wife and a very large heartbroken family.. I cry every time I hear this..
Sorry to hear of your loss! I was in the Army in Vietnam and way too many of us came home to be spit on by liberals calling us baby killers! Today many of those kids are now running our country into the dirt, as they push to have babies, killed in their mothers wombs! Who are the real baby killers? The Dems!
My deepest sympathy for the loss of your dear brother. I lost mine, also. He’d been back from Vietnam a few months before his wife’s lover attacked him in the dark and stabbed him to death. It was something my family never got over. He was only 21 years old. My heart still breaks, and it breaks for your family, too.
This song was originally written by Mac Davis. He wrote it and asked Sammy Davis Junior to record it. Mr Davis told him I can’t sing that song because I didn’t grow up this way, but I know someone who did, Elvis Presley grew up in the ghetto. The rest is history as Elvis Presley stood in the gap in the 60s and 70s. The 1st to have black singers in his band has a white person. The 1st to sing a tribute song to Martin Luther King Junior, after he was murdered ( If I Can Dream) and was honoured to be asked to record In The Ghetto. Great reaction!
No one would record this Mac Davis song IN THE GHETTO as it was too raw, especially during the race riots in the 1960s. A top RCA executive said we can't release it. Elvis heard it and said, "That's my next single, son" and walked away. The great Sammy Davis Jr famously turned it down. Only Elvis was willing to risk his career to get that record on the air-waves. Only Elvis could have performed it and gotten the radio play when it came out in the late 1960's, during the Civil Rights Movement. He made it his platform. One of his major public statements on the issues of racism and poverty. Without uttering a single press release or public statement. Not a single political word or comment. Amazing power of song by a very brave and loving human being.
So this guy above has caused lots of racist arguments in lots of reactors- its best to report him and delete his comments. He’s been blocked by many Elvis reactors for his nonsense.
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425 Elvis did way more for civil rights than your performer zapper dapper that's for sure. By Elvis singing in the ghetto and if I can dream Elvis drew the attention of the world to the conditions the poor black people were living in around the USA and the World. What did your performer do for the black communities fuck all. Now go back under your zapper dapper rock and stay there.
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425 you are a sad mean guy , you don't know anything about Elvis only spewing your hate , you are ignorant, you can't accept the fact and the truth , you are despicable. Educate yourself on the subject , your hatred is clouding your judgement, maybe you were filled with lies about Elvis so you can't accept the truth. I pity you, you are a sad , mean person trying to tarnish Elvis but guess what you opinion doesn't matter you are nobody
When I first heard this in 1969, I cried like a baby. Mac Davis wrote this for Elvis. I was 17 and not looking forward to my eighteenth birthday. Vietnam was raging and tearing the soul and the fabric of America apart. I was brought up in the projects, and I have seen this song play out more than once. Poverty breeds a sense of hopelessness which then turns to anger. I was almost beaten to death when I was six years old by a thirteen-year-old boy. He knocked out all my teeth and kicked me in the dirt like I was less than a human being.. Ya'll we have to love one another. Thank you for a great song that needs to hit the charts again today. I did go into the army and watched Vietnam tear our nation apart, and its soul is still wounded. This is your boy in Tennessee trying to spread the love of Jesus Christ. If we all lived for him and loved one another, hatred would stop, and there would be no crime.
Elvis was born in Tulelo, Mississippi and raised in Memphis. He was poor and with a father in jail during part of his childhood. Elvis was singing from the heart and soul.
I am white and a huge Elvis fan. I grew up in Chicago ghettos. I watched gang fights and saw a black guy get shot point blank in the stomach by a rival black gang member 30 feet from me when I was 13. Your point about distraction is a very wise one. I had many Latino and black friends. In fact, I was the neighborhood minority "token" white kid. But the few of us who were close friends despised gangs as cowards since they could never fight man to man. They always had to cowardly have 5 guys against 1. We saw that as weak because it IS WEAK! Anyway, we were able to escape into arcade games and nerdy computer things on top of sports. That saved our lives. I somehow snapped out of feeling like a victim and saw the military as my only way out. I ended up being the only one in my neighborhood to get a college degree. Sadly, one of my black friends went to jail for killing a man. His older brother who was our role model and wanted to go to college got killed in a drive by due to mistaken identity. Then finally, a guy we all played tag with as 12 and 13 year old shot a man in the chest 3 times over $50 and got life in prison, while I was in bootcamp trying to change my life because I knew if I didn't, I could have gone down the self-pity path of being a victim feeling like the world owed me something,. This is one of my favorite Elvis songs since he ALSO grew up in the ghetto, Believe it or not, poverty and classicism doesn't give a shit what color you are. Anyway, I love line "Or he'll be an angry young man some day." This DOES NOT excuse bad behavior. But it does point out that there is a point in life where we can show compassion and try to support the less privileged so they might at least have a chance in life. Instead of having a tough "sh*t" mentality, It's like Elvis said: "Walk a Mile In My Shoes".
This was going on way before the 70's. Elvis lived in the ghetto in Tupelo Mississippi as a child. Then he lived in the ghetto in Memphis. He knew what it was like to be invisible to people that didn't want to see the problem. You should watch the interview with Sam Bell. He was Elvis' childhood friend. Plus there's a documentary called Elvis and the black community. Both explains a lot ☮️❤️
Elvis was born into desperate poverty in a shotgun shack in Mississippi that his father built. He knew very well the tragedy of ghetto life. The movie Elvis by Baz Lurhman gives a good impression of him learning black people's music as a child. This song is so emotional because Elvis feels it from his personal experience.
you beat me too it. The saddest part of the Elvis legacy is how the media made the people of the world believe that somehow Elvis came from riches. They were lying then and they are lying worse today. DONT BELIEVE THE SNOOOOOZ. If they tell ya its raining you better go check for yourself!
As a youngster, Elvis Presley saw it, heard it, and lived this message everyday. At the time of the recording and performances of this song, he was the only singer/muscian that was influential enough and strong enough to stand up to those who told him no. He truly was a remarkable man. I am sure there are countless things that he did for others that nobody was aware of. He never forgot how it felt to grow up down trodden and hopeless. And so he set bar for how we should treat each other.
Thanks. You've got me crying like a baby now. The pain of mothers that have lost their young men to poverty, and hopelessness, breaks my heart. Even back then. He knew the pain, too. He grew up in the Ghetto. Can't wait to meet him in person.
Elvis wasn’t from Chicago but he grew up dirt poor In Tupelo Mississippi . They lived in a two room wooden house. He knew what it was to be desperate. That’s one of the reasons he was so generous with his money. He could really relate to poverty and never forgot where he came from .
The first time I listened to "In the Ghetto" it made me cry! I was a 10-year-old girl living thousands of kilometres away from Chicago in Australia. I didn't know what a ghetto was, and I wasn't aware of poverty. However, even though I wasn't a mother, I could feel the pain and despair and the truth in Elvis' heartfelt words! That was 55 years ago, and this song STILL makes me cry every time I hear it. I still ask myself why these mothers are still crying for their children and WHY " Do we simply turn our heads, and look the other way?"
My Mom was arrested at 9mths pregnant (w me😊) while marching w MLK in front of a restaurant in TN where Blacks were not allowed to dine inside. This was her 2nd fav Elvis song- the 1st being If I Can Dream & 3rd Walk A Mile In My Shoes. All 3 were played often & early in our home- not merely songs but mantras; models by which our parents raised myself & my siblings in a too-slowly evolving South. How incredibly blessed we were!!!!!!!!! If you’ve not seen it, HIGHLY recommend the minidoc (14mins) Elvis and The Black Community: The Echo Will Never Die. You will learn much about Elvis as both a performer & a person. Shorter & worth a listen: Paul Harvey’s ‘Poor Boy With a Guitar’. And more recently- Baz Luhrmann’s film simply titled ‘Elvis’. Luhrmann has a frenetic style of directing, but it works for me here: Elvis’ life was nothing if not frenetic! But the movie lends itself to offering the viewer a window into some of what shaped Elvis, his career, his home life, and sadly- what invited some of his greatest challenges. Nice reaction! SUBSCRIBED😊 Stay safe & love big💖
One of the best reactions ever! Only one that ask how you doing! People walking around with a smile, but are dying inside. All the same story, ghettos in most big cities, just different places. Thanks for the reaction!
I met Elvis just before one of his last performances, he was staying in a beachfront hotel that one of my best friends was the bartender. I had come in from the ocean all sandy and salty and gone to the outdoor bar. There were a lot of guys all hitting on me. He came down in a robe thingy and was getting a soda. I looked over at him, his back was turned and he had beautiful hair. The guys noticed and said “oh you like him “. He came over and talked to me and said that I looked familiar, he told me his name was Elvis and I thought what a weird name. He asked if I knew his family and told me his last name. I told him I didn’t know any Pressleys. He gave me tickets to the concert that night and signed them saying that will get you backstage. I went home and was taking a shower when my roommate came and dragged me out, she had seen the tickets and was really excited . I told her that some old guy had given them to me. I obviously did not who he was. I had to convince her that we didn’t have to go to the concert, but we were invited to the after party. So I begrudgingly got dressed and took her to it. He came over and sang a love song to me and he asked how I liked the party. I told him it had everything but lobster, we were standing by the buffet. So, he had a table set with lobster dinners and asked me to join him. I was so embarrassed by all of the attention. I went out into the hall headed for valet to bring my car , it was so crowded and I knew it would take a while and I could find my roommate; I was whisked into a room by some bodyguards. A few minutes later Elvis walked in from the adjoining room. He was a perfect gentleman, he just wanted me to listen to a few new songs. It kind of frightened me as those same guys were standing guard duty at the door. I managed to leave to find my friend. She was waiting in line in the ladies room and I literally grabbed her and told her that we are leaving now!! She was calling her family and all excited. I gave her the tickets for her mom . My mother called a few days later and I was just telling her random things that I had been doing and mentioned that I had met this guy and he thought he knew my family and did she know any Pressleys? She said no and a few seconds later, do you mean Elvis Pressley? I had never heard my mother get all flustered like she did. She said well I am not really a fan but your aunt is going to go crazy!! Tell me all about it. I got to he came to the pool bar to get a soda, when she interrupted me and said and you went up to his room didn’t you! I was shocked. I said mom I don’t go up to strange mens rooms!! She was disappointed which I felt was confusing. I told her about the party leaving out the detour to his room seeing as I didn’t really choose to go there I was ushered in there by some bodyguards. But now, just recently I have started listening to his music and know who he was and I feel so sad that I probably hurt his feelings at a time in his life that was feeling vulnerable. He died a few months later. I just want to say, Elvis I am sorry that I didn’t know who you were. You were phenomenal, I also cried the first time that I heard in the ghetto. Thank you for the kindness you showed to me and I hope that you know that I am truly sorry for any hurt or disappointment.
Donald Trump is trying to bring this country together the Democrats keep tearing it apart it's sad that someone would take so many drugs they would kill themselves as Elvis Presley dead may he rest in peace I wish you were still here
Mac Davis wrote this song and couldn't find anyone to sing it. Elvis wanted to sing it because he could relate to it. He grew up poor in a mostly black neighborhood in Tupelo, Mississippi.
Elvis definitely knew the struggle he gave almost all of his money away to charities that were close to his heart ❤️ in Memphis, another inner-city with poverty. Tyvm brother ⚡️⚡️👍🏽
Elvis,was born in the ghetto and dirt poor so he lived so he sang the song from his heart. Rip Elvis The G.O.A.T. and thanks for your reaction God bless you,and your family, be safe and careful.🇵🇷🇺🇲☝🕺🎸🎤❤🙏
When this song came out, I felt like it was the most meaningful story he ever told. To this day, I still play it two or three times a year, and I still cry every time I hear it.
Elvis was born in Tupelo,Mississippi in a shotgun house and was dirt poor. His father was put in jail for writing a bad check for groceries, and Elvis and his Mother became homeless. Elvis learned how to sing in the black juke joints after moving to Memphis. Elvis could sing that song with no judgment because he lived in abject poverty and unstood what poverty could lead anyone to do out of desperation. Whitney Houston’s mother sang backup vocals for Elvis with the Jordanairs. Elvis came from where the blues were the music. I think everything in Elvis’ life influenced the great singer he became.
Elvis respected everyone...he didn't care about race. He was pure. His backing singers were beautifull black women and that was very progressive in that time. He was more than just the King of Rock 'n Roll...he was The King...full stop!
A lot of people don’t this but 1 of Ladin singers was Whitney Houston’s mother! In a interview Whitney tells about meeting Elvis as a little girl, and how her mother and the rest of the singers would stay up really late with Elvis singing gospel songs until early the next mornings. They were call the Sweet Imperations
I saw a story were Elvis was on the phone with MLK and wanted to go march with him. And King said no you keep doing what you are doing. And that is why he was so tore up when he was killed. Check out the song If I Can Dream. It is in honor of MLK and Robert Kennedy Jr..
Elvis was a preacher and everyone listened. The disparities were so evident and the nation was grappling with the truth and how to change things for the better. Kudos to Mac Davis for writing it, and Elvis for doing it.
That was one of Elvis's tender spots in his heart. The inequality for those having to live that life stuck in the ghetto. This song is truly sung from his heart. He often tried to better the neighborhood for the people stuck in that rut. Believe me he knew what was going on and was the basis for this song and tries to raise awareness to what was going on. No he was from Memphis, TN. His mansion called Graceland is there. Lots of ghetto areas there as well.
Very powerful song - full credit to its writer, Mac Davis, and to Elvis for having the guts to release it. An entire scene and history painted in under three minutes. Cleverly powerful too - it's a jolt to realise that it's never mentioned in the song what colour the boy's skin is, but we all get the same picture of how he looks. And what that says about America, American society, and us, is very telling.
He was trying to make everyone aware of the poor children living in sad and poor situations. Elvis was a great human being and was concern about those children.
Elvis came up in the flatesin Tupelo Miss. He had a heavy influence in soul music from there. His neighborhood was poor white and black folks. He sings with soul from attending a black church. If anyone cane hear this song and not have tears in their eyes they don't have a heart.❤
I think Elvis had more love compassion and care in his pinky than most have in a lifetime. Hope I see him in heaven someday Then we will hear a song beyond anything he ever did before
Elvis was born in Tupelo, Mississippi in a shotgun house.He was taught to sing in a black church with open arms and love.Im from Mississippi, I live 45 minutes south of Tupelo. He was a twin,(brother),he survived, (Elvis).He always felt guilty from that.He moved to Memphis,Tennessee, there is where he resided until death.His home in Memphis, Tennessee is known as,GRACELAND. MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE.
Doing great. The sun is shining, birds are singing. What a glorious day. Hope everyone can look at life like this. Born in Tupelo, MS/ Lived much of his life, before and after the Army, in Memphis. His mansion Graceland was near the hotel where Dr. King was assassinated. The hood of Memphis was very close by. His favorite music was Gospel, and he always did it proud.
Hi. This video popped up on my “for you page” Tonight. I’m Swedish and I am a social worker. I’ve worked with kids and teens for 20 yers. Some of those years with kids and teens who had committed crimes or had been mixed up with different types of gangs. What Elvis are singing about in this song is more or less happening all over the world. The last couple of years we have had increased problems with criminal gangs. And it’s now one of the most talked about political issues. Social workers, teachers, police has been sounding the alarm for at least the last 15 years. Even if we yet have a lot to tackle and a lot of work to do I’m so glad to be living and working in a country where there are resources and help and support from the Swedish government. Social security and social safety-net is key to be able to help and support people and to provide for all children. No matter where they live or who their parents are. I wish Americans could have the same help and support as we have in Sweden. I really can’t understand why Americans are so against that. In my opinion it is crucial in order to make any type of change especially for the moms and the children, the young men Elvis is singing about
Elvis added the words, “And his mama cried.”, he never got credit for it but Mac Davis wrote this song and Sammy Davis Jr. was offered the song but Elvis wanted it and did grow up that way. A treasure of a song 🎶 by Elvis. If you want to know about Elvis, watch Elvis and the Black Community 1&2 and Elvis the King of Kindness. These are just two of the videos that show how a person like Elvis existed and gave so much to others.
Watched the King of Kindness for the first time this last week. I knew a lot about Elvis’s charitable activities but this was a step further. That’s why we love him . For his beautiful soul 😢
@@debralewis9737 St. Jude still affects children to this day and polio has been increasing lately but for over sixty years children were protected by this vaccine. Elvis changed our generation for the good.
Elvis had legit love for Black America, growing up in poverty himself, his friends were mostly poor Black kids, he attended the good ol fashioned Gospel Churches of the day, he identified with their Faith and Plight. Elvis was a good man, period.
I have a love hate relationship with this song. I love that it's genuine and hate that it's reality. I bawled like a baby the first time I heard it. Haven't listened to it in a very long time on purpose because it makes my heart hurt.
A lot of singers turned down recording this Song. They were scared of what it might do to their reputation. Elvis insisted that he record this Song. Shows the type of man he was.
@@Elvista The subject is about Elvis and what he didn't do for civil rights people. But since you want to know I will tell you. At the age of 19 I was conscripted to go to a place called Vietnam and kill people who had done nothing to me and me to them. All because some US president LBJ thought it would be a great way to make money for the US. After sending mates home in body bags and doing unspeakable things to people we returned. Heroin was a great substitute to stop the torture, until my mate crucified himself on a needle full of heroin. I got clean and some say I have done very well for myself. It is not unusual for me to be in a supermarket and alike and see a family struggling to pay for food, so I gladly pay for it. I spend my time and my money with no government assistance whatsoever helping returned soldiers from wars that the US creates. I don't discriminate. Now, what do you do?
Elvis has a connection with this song because he grew up dirt ass poor ..his daddy went to jail for writing bad checks to feed his family and his Mama had to do what she could to take care of her 2 yr old baby.. I just watched Sounder for the 3rd time probably a few days ago.. same kinda thing.. not totally the same, obviously, Elvis was white.. but the same kind of story... Mama has to hold things together and just hope and pray her man comes home to take some of her burden away.. Man made the wrong decision trying to feed his family. Just makes me realize how blessed I am.. I grew up lower middle class but we did have food.. might have been kraft mac n cheese.. but it was something to eat. I've raised 5 children and never had to worry about them being shot on a daily basis.. which, unfortunately, is still happening in our country... SAD. This country truly needs to come together . I'm 56 yrs old and I doubt it will happen in my lifetime... but I can hope for my children and grandchildren for the hate to stop.
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425 Your back again you must be a sad lonely pathetic person you really must? Why don't you do something positive like finding God ( Jesus Christ) and stop trolling Elvis?
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425 What are you on about the death penalty? Elvis Father did time in prison for writing a bad check no black person would get the death penalty for that you utter 🤡
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425 Mate you really need to get some help, ELVIS father spent eight months in jail for writing a bad check in 1938. No black man would have got a death sentence for writing a bad check in 1938 what the hell are you on about??
My mom was 2 years older than Elvis and she totally loved him. The way we talked about him in our house was like he was family. We were happy when he was and sad when he started getting ill. I remember when this song was first played on the radio. It was pretty powerful. I still get joked up when I hear it. Elvis was one of the most loving and generous person you could ever imagine. Thanks for the moving reaction. I grew up as a teen in the 60’s living in Alaska. And we grew up very poor for awhile after my mom lost her job after the 1964 Earthquake. I know what it is like to be A ten year old taking care of younger siblings so my mom could work nights . Elvis also knew that kind of poverty and they had it way worse than we did.
Elvis hit the radio in my little home town and became a favorite immediately. Our car radio came in a lot clearer at the top of hills so that's where we drove to hear every word. Elvis was never afraid to take a risk and this song proves it.
This was one of his great songs and There’s many of us that can relate to this song I didn’t grow up in Chicago, but I grew up two hours west in the ghetto poor refrigerator always empty, walking around hungry all the time trying to figure out how to stop the hunger pains. I think people that have had to start out in life like this. Have a great understanding and compassion for the next individual.
Elvis was so kuch more than a great singer in fancy clothes. He lived in poverty, he fought for equal rights, when it was not just unpopular, but dangerous to do so. He was so generous with his money. He was kind to everyone. He was truly a great human being.
Thank you JayT for being a great American! God richly bless you and your family. That song was to wake up Americans who never lived it, could see the plight of the poor people who had no one to care or help them up in life.
When Mac Davis was 5 or 6 years old, the esteemed Nashville songwriter couldn't understand why one of his best friends had to live in a bad part of town. He remembered that friend as he wrote "In the Ghetto," which Elvis Presley turned into a chart-topping hit in 1969.
Born in Tupelo, Mississippi. A two room shack. In the black neighborhood, a typically segregated area. His mom on her own, his dad in jail for check forgery. Then moved into low income housing in Memphis, Tennessee. He sang in church. Along the way met and knew MLK. Elvis never ever forgot where he came from. He showered all kinds of people with kindness and generosity. So many stories of him buying Cadillacs for strangers peering into a Cadillac dealership window. A remarkable man. ❤
I can guarantee you that Elvis's own mother had those same thoughts you mentioned in the beginning when Elvis was born as he was born in the ghetto so he is singing from his own real history too. I was a little girl 9 years old in the city of Chicago where I was raised. I knew then the importance of this song then as well as NOW! This song was a huge impact on me when it came out on the heels of the horrible riots that that wonderful city suffered through. Still brings a tear in to my eye! I lived this song!!❤ A commenter once said about this song "if this song dosent touch your heart then we can't be friends" LOL i couldn't agree more!! ❤ I enjoy seeing the reactions of you younger people to these ever so important and TIMELESS songs ty for your upload!
Elvis was born in Tupelo Mississippi the family moved to Memphis when he was about 13. They lived in Lauderdale Courts until he started singing then he bought graceland.
Thank you for playing & reacting to my favorite song by Elvis! It touched my heart long ago when I was a teenager. Still feel sad when I hear it. I grew up in a low income area.
This song was written by Mac Davis in 1969. RCA and Col. Parker told Elvis not to record this song. Elvis said "I'm recording this song" and walked out. Plus, once his backup singers, the Sweet Inspirations, were with Elvis down South for a show. The hotel Elvis was going to stay in said his back-up singers had to stay somewhere else. Elvis told the manager, if they can't stay here neither will I. Elvis was born in Tupelo MS. in a 2 room shack. He moved to Memphis with his parents when he was 12. They were dirt poor and lived in the projects. Elvis used to go to the black church sometimes, just to listen to the Gospel music. He loved R& B also. He was good friends with BB King and used to go to his club in Memphis. Elvis was color blind. He respected all people and shame on some of the young black entertainers who talk trash about him. Elvis broke barriers back in the day. How many entertainers would go on a stage in Las Vegas full of a predominately white audience and sing "In The Ghetto", only Elvis. He was also good friends with Sammy Davis Jr. This country will never really be at it's greatest until people come together as Americans and stop letting Political Parties divide us for their own personal agendas.
You said it all you said it right we all need to pull together because if we keep going down the same road that keeps splitting us up and not voting a good leader for our country America we will fail and our enemies will not be concerned about us we will be locked up and live by their rules we need to make a change and now
Frank Sinatra did the same thing for Sammy down south.
I think it was Dean Martin who got up in the venues owners face along with Frank (and his Italian body guards) - they told him there would be no show if Sammy wasn't allowed to perform.
He performed 😂
I grew up in the 60s and honestly didn't like some of his earlier stuff. But when he came out with In The Ghetto and Don't Cry Daddy I took notice. He had a good heart and bad demons.
You are my favorite song analyzer. I'll repeat the same song just to feel your reaction. As to your saying "You don't have to be one of us", listening to this kind of poetry makes us one, opens our hearts. Mac Davis understanding how a mother's heart can break in so many ways is so powerful. Blessings.
The whole world too!!
This was in 1969! Elvis was born and raised in a ghetto in Mississippi during the depression.
Till 13
I've been to the Lil Tupelo MS. House and Graceland, thanks to the Glory of God. For my Life and allow me to do the things in life I've accomplished.
Country musician Mac Davis wrote this. Elvis was born and lived in a small house his dad built in Tupelo Mississippi. His dad got into legal trouble going to prison. They lost the house and moved to housing complex in Memphis where he lived as a youth and teen. He wasn't born in any ghetto.
@ednaatluxton4918 East Tupelo was the ghetto.
No he wasn't likely born in a ghetto. But partially raised in a housing project in Memphis, apparently. It doesn't really matter with singers and songwriters who can empathize with other backgrounds or people they meet that did grow up disadvantaged..He is not singing his own bio.
Elvis was from Tupelo Mississippi. He grew up dirt poor and he lived this song - except ....He had a voice and found a way to make it out of poverty by singing
Thanks to Sam Phillips and Sun Records
Exactly! He never said the little boy was black, just poor, and there were tons of poor white children in the South. I knew some poor white children, teeth rotted dirt poor.
Mac Davis wrote this, country musician. Elvis sang with the black folks in Tupelo on their porches,blues, they taught him as a kid. It wasn't to become famous then. Boy soamy of you who weren't born or fans of his when he was alive, watch a movie that wasn't accurate and think you know him. We were fans when he was alive,collected everything about him.
😢@@AnnacolleenEtters
I saw Elvis in person in Asheville, NC, not long before his death. Someone shouted, “You’re the King.” He stopped everything, and very solemnly said; “There’s only one King, and that’s King Jesus.”
It really touched your heart didn’t it,,, I’m 80, we grew up with that reality❤️
@@carollunsford9556 Yes, that had an impact on me. When someone like him took a stand for Jesus, it meant a lot.
@@carollunsford9556 me too
And Charlamen called himself God, some demonic guts of him, only one God, if you called yourself god,you're a god of satans!
2020, he called racist,got worse !!,,Can't fixed ,if you don't admit.
Just like being alcoholics and drug addicts, they can't help them if they don't think there's a problem.
Unless you grew up in this era, you really don’t know how courageous Elvis was about pushing back against and breaking down racial barriers. Watching it in real time in the era of the civil rights movement, it was clear to see who had a backbone and the resolve to stand their ground, come what may. There was a real and admirable respect for those who quietly stood their ground, without resorting to violence or lawlessness. It was truly something to behold.
He grew up poor in A black neighborhood. He loved everybody and I lived this era. This took guts in A charged racial climate. He was the first white dude to hire a lot of black singers to sing with him. He was inspired by black gospel music and actually wanted to be a gospel singer. Thank you for remembering Elvis he was a nice guy. Another great song "Walk A Mile in My Shoes" Vegas 1970. Thanks Be Blessed
Elvis wasn't a nice guy only, he was a compassionate man who took care of his brothers and sisters. "I Can Dream."
Elvis grew up in the Mississippi ghetto (moving to Memphis, Tennessee when he was 13) and was a part of the culture as much as any black child. Because he wasn't black and had star power he was able to speak/sing about issues others couldn't get away with. He was hugely active and played a major role in the civil rights movement. It makes me sad when I hear young generations saying he was racist. That couldn't have been further from the truth.
I always like to remind people that poor is poor. Black, white, yellow, or pink; Elvis, Cash, or Dolly Parton. A lot of the racial division is pushed by rich people who don't want poor people to realize they have more in common with other poor people. Colour doesn't matter.
Well said
Elvis was born in tupelo Mississippi
Exactly he's talking like that in 1970. This dude wasn't doing social justice warrior BS for Instagram brownie points. He grew up in plight and he felt connected to his fellow people that were born with obstacles.
you do know the song writer was, right?
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425what's your point? Elvis grew up in a ghetto and sang about it perfectly with soul. He didn't write it.
@@jennyjorgensen9935 Elvis didn't frow up in the ghetto, he spent some time there. You do know Mac offered to a black artist first right? Here's a question, if Elvis cared so much about when did he speak about it? If you answer it will be an interesting read, but I think it is a baffling question.
Elvis was a Social Justice Warrior, sorry that hurts your feelings
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425Elvis was the only one with the clout to get this song recorded and published. The record companies were afraid of the song but elvis was too famous to ignore
What a lot of people don't know is before this performance the producers of the show said that he could not have his background singers on stage with him because they were African-American. Including Whitney Houston's mom who was one of Elvis's background singers. And Elvis turned to them and said if they cannot be on stage with me then I will not do the show. And as you see the show went on so Elvis has always been a advocate for equal rights and opportunities for all people
Reminds me of the Beatles being told one of their shows in the south had to be segregated, and their response was to tell the venue it was either gonna be an unsegregated show or there wouldn't be a show at all.
With the utmost respect, that is not true. You are thinking of the performance at the Houston Astrodome in 1970 where he was told he could leave the "black girls" behind and he refused. This performance was in Las Vegas and there was no issue with the Sweet Inspirations. They backed him from the very start in Las Vegas without issue.
I’m white but I’m also color blind. We all are equal. Thank you for sharing this
After the producer told him that, Elvis yelled at his crew ….” pack it up, we’re leaving” ! Instead of screaming racism…..he got his point across “in a flash”. I sure miss him.
Elvis loved every one and tried to many people as much he can did not came much of fame and money just love to entertain and be very giving and generous, a special man everybody adored
Elvis knows exactly what he's singing Elvis was raised IN THE GHETTO!!
He’s from Tupelo Mississippi and was raised pretty poor and his father went to prison and it hit even worse. When he moved to Memphis to try and get a break, they lived in the projects there too. He truly understood this song and lived it. Elvis was true blue and never forgot where he came from and helped people all he could.
Vernon was in jail 8 months for altering a check from a purchase of a hog.
@@judycoln9969 it’s documented that they struggled when he was in jail.
So true I went to Memphis a few months back and that place you can feel the poverty.
Amen truth right there, I used to cry every time I heard this song, Elvis was a southern gentleman, good hearted, his mamma was a Christian and raised him right, he was blessed to come out of it.
Thanks for your reaction.
Elvis was born on January 8, 1935 in Tupelo, Mississippi, in a 2 room shack of a house his dad built with money he borrowed from his boss. That's how dirt poor they were. He was one half of identical twins; the other boy - Jesse Garon - was stillborn. They were so poor, that Jesse Garon was buried in a shoebox in an unmarked grave. At Graceland they have a plaque with his name on it in his memory.
Elvis always got along with the black community and learned a lot about music from his friends of color. Also, according to the one drop rule, Elvis would not be considered white, since he has Cherokee ancestors on both the Smith (his mother) and the Presley (his father) sides of the family. His paternal grandfather, Jesse Dunning Presley, was not happy that his two sons, Elvis' father Vernon and his brother Vester, married two sisters, Gladys and Clettes who were known to have Cherokee blood in their family tree. J.D. Presley was quite the racist a-hole, often drunk and a philandering husband to Minnie Mae (they were actually separated long before they finally divorced in 1954) who was always competing with his sons Vester and Vernon and who was known to abuse his kids when drunk. J.D. was was publicly against race mixing and was in denial about the Cherokee blood in his own family tree. It was more publicly known that the Smith family had Native blood in their family tree, so when both his sons fell for 2 Smith sisters and Vernon, on top of that, was still a minor at 17 when he eloped with Gladys who was 4 years older than him, Jesse was totally pissed off.
As a child, Elvis already had many friends in the black community at the time his family was one of 4 "white" families that lived in the predominantly black neighborhood The Hill, just across from Shake Rag. His childhood friend Sam Bell said that some of the (black) kids in that neighborhood had lighter skin than Elvis (th-cam.com/video/LrFCyNMvZWk/w-d-xo.html). One of Elvis' bodyguards once said that he thought it was a miracle Elvis got into Humes High School in Memphis, because it was "lily white". Elvis wanted to be more open about his Native ancestry, but his manager "colonel" Tom Parker (real name Andreas van Kuijk) was against it because he was afraid it might cost Elvis fans (and himself money). They did have Elvis play characters in his movies though where he had Native American blood (Flaming Star, G.I. Blues, Stay Away Joe). Once Elvis had his own (apprentice) job learning to be an electrician, he saved up his money and bought his clothes in the same style that many of his friends of color wore. He was called a (forgive me, just stating facts here) "n-lover" and got beaten up several times too. Later, when he was an established star, he would not perform at places where the members of color of his back-up band/orchestra weren't allowed.
Thank you for sharing this info. Knowing his family background gives me an even better understanding of the man. I was born in '56 in Texas. My I didn't know I had Cherokee blood til I was 13. When I asked my Mom why no one told me she said it's just not something you talk about in the south. I told her well I'm proud of it cause everything in me makes me what I am. It was her mother was 1/2 Cherokee. But by time I came along her hair was gray and cut short. Mom said when grannies was young she had jet black hair down her back. I was born with black hair then it turned blonde by time I was 10 months old.But oddly I still have a black stroke in my widows peak even now amongst the gray lol. The blond came from her daddy who was German descent. I'm a real mixed bag 😅😅
If there was a 2nd room, it was the bathroom, because the house is one room with a pot belly stove for his mama to cook and heat the house on chilly southern evenings.
@@kennethcurtis1856 They had an outhouse. I've visited the house and it's a shotgun house, meaning you can shoot a gun from the front door and out through the back door, so the house isn't two complete rooms but rather like a half-wall separation.
Elvis was a beautiful soul who loved people. His life is so tragic. He was taken advantage of, driven to near bankruptcy by a corrupt manager, and was basically forced to work an insane schedule just to keep from losing everything. All of this drove him to drugs which ultimately damaged his body beyond help and caused his early death. Such a great talent, such a vulnerable person, such a tragic end. “What shall it profit a man should he gain the whole world and lose his soul?”
Elvis gave away a lot of his money as well. For instance he was driving and came upon an old couple broke down on the side of the road in a beat up pickup truck. Elvis stopped picked them up and brought them to a car lot and bought them a new truck. Then followed them back to their broke truck and helped them transfer their load from the old truck to their new one.
Elvis..Bob Joyce..🙏❤️🇺🇸
Believe king is with the KING.
Elvis genuinely looks so heartbroken singing this.
i agree
This was my oldest brother's favorite song.. He was a Marine and served in Vietnam..
He returned a hero just to be killed by a drunk driver shortly after, leaving behind his pregnant wife and a very large heartbroken family..
I cry every time I hear this..
Sorry to hear of your loss! I was in the Army in Vietnam and way too many of us came home to be spit on by liberals calling us baby killers! Today many of those kids are now running our country into the dirt, as they push to have babies, killed in their mothers wombs! Who are the real baby killers? The Dems!
My deepest sympathy for the loss of your dear brother. I lost mine, also. He’d been back from Vietnam a few months before his wife’s lover attacked him in the dark and stabbed him to death. It was something my family never got over. He was only 21 years old. My heart still breaks, and it breaks for your family, too.
I'm so sorry that's horrible
@@BlueLake7Big hugs to you. X
So sorry x
I'm 61 and that song moves me every time I hear it.
The genius of the songs writer, Mac Davis, is that race is not mentioned at all. Mac later became a huge star in his own right.
This song was originally written by Mac Davis. He wrote it and asked Sammy Davis Junior to record it. Mr Davis told him I can’t sing that song because I didn’t grow up this way, but I know someone who did, Elvis Presley grew up in the ghetto. The rest is history as Elvis Presley stood in the gap in the 60s and 70s. The 1st to have black singers in his band has a white person. The 1st to sing a tribute song to Martin Luther King Junior, after he was murdered ( If I Can Dream) and was honoured to be asked to record In The Ghetto. Great reaction!
LOVE FOR MAC DAVIS FROM LUBBOCK TEXAS! MAC'S BIRTH PLACE!
Yeah but Elvis knew how to deliver
In the Ghetto is probably the most HONEST song recorded, ever !
💯
There will never be another Elvis Presley to me. He was God-given.😢❤
Elvis was larger than life. God had a vision for him. Some people are not meant to get old. He had the whole package.
Elvis Presley gave millions to inner city charities.
No one would record this Mac Davis song IN THE GHETTO as it was too raw, especially during the race riots in the 1960s. A top RCA executive said we can't release it.
Elvis heard it and said, "That's my next single, son" and walked away.
The great Sammy Davis Jr famously turned it down. Only Elvis was willing to risk his career to get that record on the air-waves.
Only Elvis could have performed it and gotten the radio play when it came out in the late 1960's, during the Civil Rights Movement. He made it his platform.
One of his major public statements on the issues of racism and poverty. Without uttering a single press release or public statement. Not a single political word or comment.
Amazing power of song by a very brave and loving human being.
Elvis did nothing for civil rights. Grow up accept reality.
So this guy above has caused lots of racist arguments in lots of reactors- its best to report him and delete his comments. He’s been blocked by many Elvis reactors for his nonsense.
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425 Elvis did more for civil rights than your crap zapper dapper that's for sure 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425 Elvis did way more for civil rights than your performer zapper dapper that's for sure. By Elvis singing in the ghetto and if I can dream Elvis drew the attention of the world to the conditions the poor black people were living in around the USA and the World. What did your performer do for the black communities fuck all. Now go back under your zapper dapper rock and stay there.
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425 you are a sad mean guy , you don't know anything about Elvis only spewing your hate , you are ignorant, you can't accept the fact and the truth , you are despicable. Educate yourself on the subject , your hatred is clouding your judgement, maybe you were filled with lies about Elvis so you can't accept the truth. I pity you, you are a sad , mean person trying to tarnish Elvis but guess what you opinion doesn't matter you are nobody
I remember crying when I heard this for the first time as a little girl. It still reonates today and it still makes me cry.
Same, it really struck me deeply and still does.
Every time I hear, “a hungry little boy with a runny nose, plays in the street while the cold wind blows in the ghetto.” I lose it. It just kills me.
Bawling like a baby still and I'm in my sixties and have known this song for years. Still gets me.
Me too my friend ❤❤❤
When I first heard this in 1969, I cried like a baby. Mac Davis wrote this for Elvis. I was 17 and not looking forward to my eighteenth birthday. Vietnam was raging and tearing the soul and the fabric of America apart. I was brought up in the projects, and I have seen this song play out more than once. Poverty breeds a sense of hopelessness which then turns to anger. I was almost beaten to death when I was six years old by a thirteen-year-old boy. He knocked out all my teeth and kicked me in the dirt like I was less than a human being.. Ya'll we have to love one another. Thank you for a great song that needs to hit the charts again today. I did go into the army and watched Vietnam tear our nation apart, and its soul is still wounded. This is your boy in Tennessee trying to spread the love of Jesus Christ. If we all lived for him and loved one another, hatred would stop, and there would be no crime.
God Bless you. Peace and Blessings to you and yours.
Thank you for your service!
I cried too and again now😢
Thank you for your service sir and thank you for making it through all of the things u have sir. May God bless you sir.
May the Lord bless you for your strength & speaking the truth. Your sister in Christ from Alabama. (From the Ghetto)
Elvis was born in Tulelo, Mississippi and raised in Memphis. He was poor and with a father in jail during part of his childhood. Elvis was singing from the heart and soul.
I am white and a huge Elvis fan. I grew up in Chicago ghettos. I watched gang fights and saw a black guy get shot point blank in the stomach by a rival black gang member 30 feet from me when I was 13. Your point about distraction is a very wise one. I had many Latino and black friends. In fact, I was the neighborhood minority "token" white kid. But the few of us who were close friends despised gangs as cowards since they could never fight man to man. They always had to cowardly have 5 guys against 1. We saw that as weak because it IS WEAK! Anyway, we were able to escape into arcade games and nerdy computer things on top of sports. That saved our lives. I somehow snapped out of feeling like a victim and saw the military as my only way out. I ended up being the only one in my neighborhood to get a college degree. Sadly, one of my black friends went to jail for killing a man. His older brother who was our role model and wanted to go to college got killed in a drive by due to mistaken identity. Then finally, a guy we all played tag with as 12 and 13 year old shot a man in the chest 3 times over $50 and got life in prison, while I was in bootcamp trying to change my life because I knew if I didn't, I could have gone down the self-pity path of being a victim feeling like the world owed me something,. This is one of my favorite Elvis songs since he ALSO grew up in the ghetto, Believe it or not, poverty and classicism doesn't give a shit what color you are. Anyway, I love line "Or he'll be an angry young man some day." This DOES NOT excuse bad behavior. But it does point out that there is a point in life where we can show compassion and try to support the less privileged so they might at least have a chance in life. Instead of having a tough "sh*t" mentality, It's like Elvis said: "Walk a Mile In My Shoes".
Elvis was a messenger
I pray he's in Heaven 🙌 so many people who have a huge following like Elvis Presley, could win so many to the Lord 🙌
This was going on way before the 70's. Elvis lived in the ghetto in Tupelo Mississippi as a child. Then he lived in the ghetto in Memphis. He knew what it was like to be invisible to people that didn't want to see the problem. You should watch the interview with Sam Bell. He was Elvis' childhood friend. Plus there's a documentary called Elvis and the black community. Both explains a lot ☮️❤️
Elvis was born into desperate poverty in a shotgun shack in Mississippi that his father built. He knew very well the tragedy of ghetto life. The movie Elvis by Baz Lurhman gives a good impression of him learning black people's music as a child. This song is so emotional because Elvis feels it from his personal experience.
you beat me too it. The saddest part of the Elvis legacy is how the media made the people of the world believe that somehow Elvis came from riches. They were lying then and they are lying worse today. DONT BELIEVE THE SNOOOOOZ. If they tell ya its raining you better go check for yourself!
It wasn't even a shotgun shack. I've been in it. Literally 1 room.
As a youngster, Elvis Presley saw it, heard it, and lived this message everyday. At the time of the recording and performances of this song, he was the only singer/muscian that was influential enough and strong enough to stand up to those who told him no. He truly was a remarkable man. I am sure there are countless things that he did for others that nobody was aware of. He never forgot how it felt to grow up down trodden and hopeless. And so he set bar for how we should treat each other.
Thanks. You've got me crying like a baby now. The pain of mothers that have lost their young men to poverty, and hopelessness, breaks my heart. Even back then. He knew the pain, too. He grew up in the Ghetto. Can't wait to meet him in person.
You won't get to meet him. He passed away.
@@monica9705 I mean when we all get to heaven.
Hopefully in Heaven! I pray he had time to repent cause I know hw loved jesus!
Elvis wasn’t from Chicago but he grew up dirt poor In Tupelo Mississippi . They lived in a two room wooden house. He knew what it was to be desperate. That’s one of the reasons he was so generous with his money. He could really relate to poverty and never forgot where he came from .
Yep in most cases poverty is the same everywhere.
@@annstillwell730Extreme poverty in our rich western world is A SHAME
The first time I listened to "In the Ghetto" it made me cry! I was a 10-year-old girl living thousands of kilometres away from Chicago in Australia. I didn't know what a ghetto was, and I wasn't aware of poverty. However, even though I wasn't a mother, I could feel the pain and despair and the truth in Elvis' heartfelt words! That was 55 years ago, and this song STILL makes me cry every time I hear it. I still ask myself why these mothers are still crying for their children and WHY " Do we simply turn our heads, and look the other way?"
My Mom was arrested at 9mths pregnant (w me😊) while marching w MLK in front of a restaurant in TN where Blacks were not allowed to dine inside. This was her 2nd fav Elvis song- the 1st being If I Can Dream & 3rd Walk A Mile In My Shoes. All 3 were played often & early in our home- not merely songs but mantras; models by which our parents raised myself & my siblings in a too-slowly evolving South. How incredibly blessed we were!!!!!!!!!
If you’ve not seen it, HIGHLY recommend the minidoc (14mins) Elvis and The Black Community: The Echo Will Never Die. You will learn much about Elvis as both a performer & a person. Shorter & worth a listen: Paul Harvey’s ‘Poor Boy With a Guitar’. And more recently- Baz Luhrmann’s film simply titled ‘Elvis’. Luhrmann has a frenetic style of directing, but it works for me here: Elvis’ life was nothing if not frenetic! But the movie lends itself to offering the viewer a window into some of what shaped Elvis, his career, his home life, and sadly- what invited some of his greatest challenges.
Nice reaction! SUBSCRIBED😊
Stay safe & love big💖
Awef Frey
Ty 👍🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
Best song Elvis ever did. Period.
THE GOAT, forever! Nobody can come close to him! He is not the king, for no reason! ❤
Elvis was ahead of his time.
One of the best reactions ever! Only one that ask how you doing! People walking around with a smile, but are dying inside. All the same story, ghettos in most big cities, just different places. Thanks for the reaction!
Elvis was the truth; He lived that life when he was young. They called him the king for a reason.
This shows the love and compassion that Elvis had everyone.
I met Elvis just before one of his last performances, he was staying in a beachfront hotel that one of my best friends was the bartender. I had come in from the ocean all sandy and salty and gone to the outdoor bar. There were a lot of guys all hitting on me. He came down in a robe thingy and was getting a soda. I looked over at him, his back was turned and he had beautiful hair. The guys noticed and said “oh you like him “. He came over and talked to me and said that I looked familiar, he told me his name was Elvis and I thought what a weird name. He asked if I knew his family and told me his last name. I told him I didn’t know any Pressleys. He gave me tickets to the concert that night and signed them saying that will get you backstage. I went home and was taking a shower when my roommate came and dragged me out, she had seen the tickets and was really excited . I told her that some old guy had given them to me. I obviously did not who he was. I had to convince her that we didn’t have to go to the concert, but we were invited to the after party. So I begrudgingly got dressed and took her to it. He came over and sang a love song to me and he asked how I liked the party. I told him it had everything but lobster, we were standing by the buffet. So, he had a table set with lobster dinners and asked me to join him. I was so embarrassed by all of the attention. I went out into the hall headed for valet to bring my car , it was so crowded and I knew it would take a while and I could find my roommate; I was whisked into a room by some bodyguards. A few minutes later Elvis walked in from the adjoining room. He was a perfect gentleman, he just wanted me to listen to a few new songs. It kind of frightened me as those same guys were standing guard duty at the door. I managed to leave to find my friend. She was waiting in line in the ladies room and I literally grabbed her and told her that we are leaving now!! She was calling her family and all excited. I gave her the tickets for her mom . My mother called a few days later and I was just telling her random things that I had been doing and mentioned that I had met this guy and he thought he knew my family and did she know any Pressleys? She said no and a few seconds later, do you mean Elvis Pressley? I had never heard my mother get all flustered like she did. She said well I am not really a fan but your aunt is going to go crazy!! Tell me all about it. I got to he came to the pool bar to get a soda, when she interrupted me and said and you went up to his room didn’t you! I was shocked. I said mom I don’t go up to strange mens rooms!! She was disappointed which I felt was confusing. I told her about the party leaving out the detour to his room seeing as I didn’t really choose to go there I was ushered in there by some bodyguards. But now, just recently I have started listening to his music and know who he was and I feel so sad that I probably hurt his feelings at a time in his life that was feeling vulnerable. He died a few months later. I just want to say, Elvis I am sorry that I didn’t know who you were. You were phenomenal, I also cried the first time that I heard in the ghetto. Thank you for the kindness you showed to me and I hope that you know that I am truly sorry for any hurt or disappointment.
You're lucky.. He was a legend.. When he died, it was the first time I ever saw my grandmother cry.
They don't call Elvis the King for no reason. He never let anyone stop him from singing the truth.
Donald Trump is trying to bring this country together the Democrats keep tearing it apart it's sad that someone would take so many drugs they would kill themselves as Elvis Presley dead may he rest in peace I wish you were still here
Mac Davis wrote this song and couldn't find anyone to sing it. Elvis wanted to sing it because he could relate to it. He grew up poor in a mostly black neighborhood in Tupelo, Mississippi.
Elvis definitely knew the struggle he gave almost all of his money away to charities that were close to his heart ❤️ in Memphis, another inner-city with poverty. Tyvm brother ⚡️⚡️👍🏽
Elvis,was born in the ghetto and dirt poor so he lived so he sang the song from his heart. Rip Elvis The G.O.A.T. and thanks for your reaction God bless you,and your family, be safe and careful.🇵🇷🇺🇲☝🕺🎸🎤❤🙏
When this song came out, I felt like it was the most meaningful story he ever told. To this day, I still play it two or three times a year, and I still cry every time I hear it.
Elvis was born in Tupelo,Mississippi in a shotgun house and was dirt poor. His father was put in jail for writing a bad check for groceries, and Elvis and his Mother became homeless. Elvis learned how to sing in the black juke joints after moving to Memphis. Elvis could sing that song with no judgment because he lived in abject poverty and unstood what poverty could lead anyone to do out of desperation. Whitney Houston’s mother sang backup vocals for Elvis with the Jordanairs.
Elvis came from where the blues were the music. I think everything in Elvis’ life influenced the great singer he became.
Elvis was the perfect person to sing this song. He lived that poor ghetto type life even though he was white. This is my favorite song he sings.❤
The cycle unbroken. Elvis had a way of speaking out for social justice.
He grew up in poverty.
Been the same story for over 55 years. Change your vote, change your future.
I grew up with this man singing this song...one of the songs that made me cry. I grew up poor and this can hit
He was singing about the things he wasn't allowed to talk about back then....music was his language ❤❤❤
Elvis just sang songs other people wrote.
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425dayum, your continued stupidity astounds me. It's 2024, dude....grow up, yo 🫵🏽
Elvis respected everyone...he didn't care about race. He was pure. His backing singers were beautifull black women and that was very progressive in that time. He was more than just the King of Rock 'n Roll...he was The King...full stop!
A lot of people don’t this but 1 of Ladin singers was Whitney Houston’s mother! In a interview Whitney tells about meeting Elvis as a little girl, and how her mother and the rest of the singers would stay up really late with Elvis singing gospel songs until early the next mornings. They were call the Sweet Imperations
He is a king, but not the King. Jesus Christ is the King and Elvis would be the first to tell you that.
@@monawenger932Amen!! Jesus is the king of all kings!!
Elvis was from the south. But he grew up in the ghetto. He knew.
Love your reaction and kind words. Your a Sweet man🥰
I saw a story were Elvis was on the phone with MLK and wanted to go march with him. And King said no you keep doing what you are doing. And that is why he was so tore up when he was killed. Check out the song If I Can Dream. It is in honor of MLK and Robert Kennedy Jr..
Mac Davis, from Lubbock TX, wrote this song. Elvis felt it because he was raised in the ghettos of Mississippi and Memphis.
Elvis was a preacher and everyone listened. The disparities were so evident and the nation was grappling with the truth and how to change things for the better. Kudos to Mac Davis for writing it, and Elvis for doing it.
That was one of Elvis's tender spots in his heart. The inequality for those having to live that life stuck in the ghetto. This song is truly sung from his heart. He often tried to better the neighborhood for the people stuck in that rut. Believe me he knew what was going on and was the basis for this song and tries to raise awareness to what was going on. No he was from Memphis, TN. His mansion called Graceland is there. Lots of ghetto areas there as well.
Goosbumps all over and tears in my eyes everytime i hear this.
Very powerful song - full credit to its writer, Mac Davis, and to Elvis for having the guts to release it. An entire scene and history painted in under three minutes. Cleverly powerful too - it's a jolt to realise that it's never mentioned in the song what colour the boy's skin is, but we all get the same picture of how he looks. And what that says about America, American society, and us, is very telling.
Just what I was thinking, poverty and helplessness doesn't see color or nationality...
Elvis spoke the truth
He was trying to make everyone aware of the poor children living in sad and poor situations. Elvis was a great human being and was concern about those children.
Elvis speaks the truth. This man also knows as he was born beyond poor.
This song still makes me cry after all these year's. I am 56 and I know this song since I was 16. 😢
My god that man is a legend! This is one of the most powerful songs I’ve ever heard…and it was the 1970s!!! Rest in peace legend
Elvis grew up in Tupelo, in the ghetto. I can't even give you an estimate of how many times I cried over this song.
Elvis came up in the flatesin Tupelo Miss. He had a heavy influence in soul music from there. His neighborhood was poor white and black folks. He sings with soul from attending a black church. If anyone cane hear this song and not have tears in their eyes they don't have a heart.❤
I think Elvis had more love compassion and care in his pinky than most have in a lifetime.
Hope I see him in heaven someday
Then we will hear a song beyond anything he ever did before
every family needs a dad in the family. Don’t forget the mother your children always be a father to your children and a good influence.
Elvis was born in Tupelo, Mississippi in a shotgun house.He was taught to sing in a black church with open arms and love.Im from Mississippi, I live 45 minutes south of Tupelo. He was a twin,(brother),he survived, (Elvis).He always felt guilty from that.He moved to Memphis,Tennessee, there is where he resided until death.His home in Memphis, Tennessee is known as,GRACELAND. MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE.
I couldn't tell you how many times I have listened to that song, but I can tell you that it brings tears to my eyes every single time.
If Elvis could of helped everybody who needed it, he would of.
I remember watching his movies at the Drive-in when I was 4yrs. The whole world cried when Elvis passed. This song came from a movie too. ❤
Doing great. The sun is shining, birds are singing. What a glorious day. Hope everyone can look at life like this.
Born in Tupelo, MS/ Lived much of his life, before and after the Army, in Memphis. His mansion Graceland was near the hotel where Dr. King was assassinated. The hood of Memphis was very close by. His favorite music was Gospel, and he always did it proud.
Hi. This video popped up on my “for you page” Tonight. I’m Swedish and I am a social worker. I’ve worked with kids and teens for 20 yers. Some of those years with kids and teens who had committed crimes or had been mixed up with different types of gangs. What Elvis are singing about in this song is more or less happening all over the world. The last couple of years we have had increased problems with criminal gangs. And it’s now one of the most talked about political issues. Social workers, teachers, police has been sounding the alarm for at least the last 15 years. Even if we yet have a lot to tackle and a lot of work to do I’m so glad to be living and working in a country where there are resources and help and support from the Swedish government. Social security and social safety-net is key to be able to help and support people and to provide for all children. No matter where they live or who their parents are. I wish Americans could have the same help and support as we have in Sweden. I really can’t understand why Americans are so against that. In my opinion it is crucial in order to make any type of change especially for the moms and the children, the young men Elvis is singing about
Elvis added the words, “And his mama cried.”, he never got credit for it but Mac Davis wrote this song and Sammy Davis Jr. was offered the song but Elvis wanted it and did grow up that way. A treasure of a song 🎶 by Elvis. If you want to know about Elvis, watch Elvis and the Black Community 1&2 and Elvis the King of Kindness. These are just two of the videos that show how a person like Elvis existed and gave so much to others.
Watched the King of Kindness for the first time this last week. I knew a lot about Elvis’s charitable activities but this was a step further. That’s why we love him . For his beautiful soul 😢
@@debralewis9737 St. Jude still affects children to this day and polio has been increasing lately but for over sixty years children were protected by this vaccine. Elvis changed our generation for the good.
Elvis had legit love for Black America, growing up in poverty himself, his friends were mostly poor Black kids, he attended the good ol fashioned Gospel Churches of the day, he identified with their Faith and Plight. Elvis was a good man, period.
may he rest in peace he was never the same after his mom died
Elvis makes you see and hear the song, the story...he puts you in the moment
Nobody else could ever do that
I have a love hate relationship with this song. I love that it's genuine and hate that it's reality. I bawled like a baby the first time I heard it. Haven't listened to it in a very long time on purpose because it makes my heart hurt.
Elvis wanted to sing this song. Who was going to tell Elvis no? It was a hit.
A lot of singers turned down recording this Song. They were scared of what it might do to their reputation. Elvis insisted that he record this Song. Shows the type of man he was.
He lived it.
until what age?
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425what 'bout you, sis...what you doing for the less privileged and people of color?
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425he was in the eighth grade when the family moved into a boarding house in Memphis…
@@Elvista The subject is about Elvis and what he didn't do for civil rights people. But since you want to know I will tell you. At the age of 19 I was conscripted to go to a place called Vietnam and kill people who had done nothing to me and me to them. All because some US president LBJ thought it would be a great way to make money for the US. After sending mates home in body bags and doing unspeakable things to people we returned. Heroin was a great substitute to stop the torture, until my mate crucified himself on a needle full of heroin. I got clean and some say I have done very well for myself. It is not unusual for me to be in a supermarket and alike and see a family struggling to pay for food, so I gladly pay for it. I spend my time and my money with no government assistance whatsoever helping returned soldiers from wars that the US creates. I don't discriminate. Now, what do you do?
@@timlubbers2884 must have been hard for his mother picking cotton with him on her back.
Mac Davis is such an incredible songwriter. I’ve been crying over this song for decades. Every. Time.
I'm 61 and seen Elvis in concert, he was unique GOD BLESS Man kind
This song broke my heart as a child and ripped it from my chest after I became a mother.
Elvis has a connection with this song because he grew up dirt ass poor ..his daddy went to jail for writing bad checks to feed his family and his Mama had to do what she could to take care of her 2 yr old baby.. I just watched Sounder for the 3rd time probably a few days ago.. same kinda thing.. not totally the same, obviously, Elvis was white.. but the same kind of story... Mama has to hold things together and just hope and pray her man comes home to take some of her burden away.. Man made the wrong decision trying to feed his family. Just makes me realize how blessed I am.. I grew up lower middle class but we did have food.. might have been kraft mac n cheese.. but it was something to eat. I've raised 5 children and never had to worry about them being shot on a daily basis.. which, unfortunately, is still happening in our country... SAD. This country truly needs to come together . I'm 56 yrs old and I doubt it will happen in my lifetime... but I can hope for my children and grandchildren for the hate to stop.
and if that was a balck man that did that he would either still be in jail or given the death penalty.
bwana-ma-coo-bah425 you're a total fool you really are may God( Jesus Christ) help you one day?
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425 Your back again you must be a sad lonely pathetic person you really must? Why don't you do something positive like finding God ( Jesus Christ) and stop trolling Elvis?
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425 What are you on about the death penalty? Elvis Father did time in prison for writing a bad check no black person would get the death penalty for that you utter 🤡
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425 Mate you really need to get some help, ELVIS father spent eight months in jail for writing a bad check in 1938. No black man would have got a death sentence for writing a bad check in 1938 what the hell are you on about??
My mom was 2 years older than Elvis and she totally loved him. The way we talked about him in our house was like he was family. We were happy when he was and sad when he started getting ill. I remember when this song was first played on the radio. It was pretty powerful. I still get joked up when I hear it. Elvis was one of the most loving and generous person you could ever imagine. Thanks for the moving reaction. I grew up as a teen in the 60’s living in Alaska. And we grew up very poor for awhile after my mom lost her job after the 1964 Earthquake. I know what it is like to be A ten year old taking care of younger siblings so my mom could work nights . Elvis also knew that kind of poverty and they had it way worse than we did.
Elvis hit the radio in my little home town and became a favorite immediately. Our car radio came in a lot clearer at the top of hills so that's where we drove to hear every word.
Elvis was never afraid to take a risk and this song proves it.
This was one of his great songs and There’s many of us that can relate to this song
I didn’t grow up in Chicago, but I grew up two hours west in the ghetto poor refrigerator always empty, walking around hungry all the time trying to figure out how to stop the hunger pains.
I think people that have had to start out in life like this. Have a great understanding and compassion for the next individual.
I still cannot listen to this song without crying....beautiful
He is such an amazing storyteller
This song has always brought tears to my eyes and pain in my heart. Gods love to all.
Elvis was so kuch more than a great singer in fancy clothes. He lived in poverty, he fought for equal rights, when it was not just unpopular, but dangerous to do so. He was so generous with his money. He was kind to everyone. He was truly a great human being.
Thank you JayT for being a great American! God richly bless you and your family. That song was to wake up Americans who never lived it, could see the plight of the poor people who had no one to care or help them up in life.
When Mac Davis was 5 or 6 years old, the esteemed Nashville songwriter couldn't understand why one of his best friends had to live in a bad part of town. He remembered that friend as he wrote "In the Ghetto," which Elvis Presley turned into a chart-topping hit in 1969.
Born in Tupelo, Mississippi. A two room shack. In the black neighborhood, a typically segregated area. His mom on her own, his dad in jail for check forgery. Then moved into low income housing in Memphis, Tennessee. He sang in church. Along the way met and knew MLK. Elvis never ever forgot where he came from. He showered all kinds of people with kindness and generosity. So many stories of him buying Cadillacs for strangers peering into a Cadillac dealership window. A remarkable man. ❤
I can guarantee you that Elvis's own mother had those same thoughts you mentioned in the beginning when Elvis was born as he was born in the ghetto so he is singing from his own real history too. I was a little girl 9 years old in the city of Chicago where I was raised. I knew then the importance of this song then as well as NOW! This song was a huge impact on me when it came out on the heels of the horrible riots that that wonderful city suffered through. Still brings a tear in to my eye! I lived this song!!❤ A commenter once said about this song "if this song dosent touch your heart then we can't be friends" LOL i couldn't agree more!! ❤
I enjoy seeing the reactions of you younger people to these ever so important and TIMELESS songs ty for your upload!
Whew, I forgot how great his voice was, geez the man could SING. It's an incredible song, it's a heartbreaker
Elvis was born in Tupelo Mississippi the family moved to Memphis when he was about 13. They lived in Lauderdale Courts until he started singing then he bought graceland.
Thank you for playing & reacting to my favorite song
by Elvis! It touched my heart long ago when I was a teenager.
Still feel sad when I hear it. I grew up in a low income area.