Introduction
Elvis Presley, often referred to as the “King of Rock and Roll,” is a legendary figure in the world of music. His daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, has also made a significant mark in the music industry. One of the most remarkable moments in their respective careers was when they collaborated on the song “In the Ghetto.” This powerful song not only showcases their immense talent but also carries a poignant message that resonates with audiences to this day.
Did You Know?
- “In the Ghetto” is a song originally recorded by Elvis Presley in 1969 as part of his “From Elvis in Memphis” album. It was written by Mac Davis and became one of Elvis’s iconic hits.
- The song tells a story about the cycle of poverty in a low-income neighborhood and its tragic consequences. It addresses the pressing issue of poverty and social inequality, making it a significant piece of social commentary.
- Lisa Marie Presley, his daughter, performed a moving duet version of “In the Ghetto” with her father posthumously in 2007. Their rendition stirred emotions and was a touching tribute to the late Elvis Presley.
- Lisa Marie Presley’s decision to collaborate with her father, especially on a song of such emotional depth, added an extra layer of significance to her music career.
Video
Lyric
“In The Ghetto”
On a cold and gray Chicago mornin’
A poor little baby child is born
In the ghetto
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
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
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
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
And as her young man dies,
On a cold and gray Chicago mornin’,
Another little baby child is born
In the ghetto
And his mama cries