I'm old enough to be your grandfather, so I remember this in the day. You want to know how much guts it took for him to sing this in public? It was only two years earlier that the Supreme Court ordered lower courts to use titles when talking to Black men, like Mr. or Dr., instead of "boy". Elvis decided he was rich enough to not worry about losing fans or not being played on southern radio stations. Considering when and where he grew up, this was a big thing, and people understood.

@katherinearter6843

Жыл бұрын

Nothing to do with being rich. Elvis never had a racist bone in his body. When a town said that hnis black backing singers could not ride with him - he said ok cancel the ride. Please check befoe yhou make such statements.

@countycalling

Жыл бұрын

@@katherinearter6843 thank you! Most people then as now we’re not racist but there is always those that want to play the race card. I remember when I was young we had a wonderful black couple come and do Bible study with my foster family. They were a wonderful couple and I didn’t realize they were any different than the Chinese couple that lived down the street. This young man proves by feeling he had to point out the background singers race, he had several black background singers

@alissagonzales735

Жыл бұрын

He was told by several people including the colonel not to do the song. But he did because he felt this was a song that needed to be done at that time.

@gregoryleal7489

Жыл бұрын

Stop talking please 🙏

@tabithaedie

Жыл бұрын

@@katherinearter6843 yep...this happened when he was fixing to play at the Houston Astrodome for the Livestock Show and Rodeo. He not only told them that he would not be playing if his backup singers didn't have a ride out to the stage, he also made them drive the ladies around the Astrodome, and a white person had to be their driver. It was awesome!

According to legend, Elvis was booked to perform at an MLB stadium in Houston when he was told that his backup singers would have to use a back entrance to the facility. He basically told the promoters, "If they CAN'T come in the front, I WON'T come in." Everyone used the front door.

@ornellarose6378

Жыл бұрын

How Beautiful, indeed!!!!!!!!! 🙏🙏🙏🙏

@familymanalways6237

Жыл бұрын

And that was only 1 of the times Elvis held his ground against the Colonel.

@denisejudd5832

Жыл бұрын

That's true

@hissonggirlmoni5706

Жыл бұрын

That’s fact. That’s why he is a legend still.

@lesley4807

Жыл бұрын

Yes this was very true,Elvis wouldn't hear of it and stuck to his guns.

And 50 years later the song is still relevant. I like that color is never mentioned in the song - it speaks to all of us. Let’s not have another 50 years go by.

@FirstSuiGeneris

5 ай бұрын

Well said!

Elvis grew up in the deep south... he would sneak off to attend the black churches and watch and learn. He drew alot of his inspiration from these experiences. His family moved to Memphis TN the place he called home. His manager restricted Elvis from speaking out but Elvis ALWAYS WANTED TO PAY TRIBUTE to the black culture that he was inspired by. He was a humble and amazing man.

@animaldawg

3 ай бұрын

Check out his movie King Creole. That's the one movie HE wanted to make HIS way

I was around when this song was released in 1969 and performed here in 1970 and trust me it took a lot of courage to do a song like this then, especially for a white man so kudos to the Elvis who is, was, and will always be the GOAT!

@flingmonkey5494

Жыл бұрын

Credit to Mac Davis, a singer and songwriter who wrote this song, but could not sing it. Elvis had the standing to take up the challenge of the time and sing this song. But let's not forget Mac. Wanna REALLY hear a controversial song? Janice Ian singing "Society's Child". Painful even today.

@lisal6121

Жыл бұрын

The GOAT? Nah, Kobe is a GOAT, Mohammed Ali is a GOAT. Elvis is THE KING. 🤩

@lechat8533

Жыл бұрын

@Jim R Very well said, Jim!

@lechat8533

Жыл бұрын

@@lisal6121 Considering that Elvis knocked Ali to the ground, it makes him the over goat. :)))

@lisal6121

Жыл бұрын

@@lechat8533 the Others are great. But the king is the supreme.

Elvis was so beloved by the black community and black entertainers. He grew up in the ghetto too. He was so poor. Never forget where he came from. Not a racist bone in his body. Thanks for sharing. Katie 😊🌸.

@jasondamrau9943

Жыл бұрын

There wasn't many white artists who would be singing with an all black choir back in the day as well

@lynnerrico578

Жыл бұрын

Elvis grew up in ghetto....

@danaadkerson2679

Жыл бұрын

Elvis and his parents attended an all black church. He sings some amazing hymns!!

@deniseemond9263

Жыл бұрын

Absolutely true. Check more of Elvis out.

@kellybulfer7621

Жыл бұрын

One of his backup singers was Whitney Houston's mother. Blacks were not supposed to be on stage back then in the state of Texas. Elvis told them that if the blacks couldn't appear on stage, then he wouldn't either.

They told Elvis Presley his back up band couldn't come and he said these are my People! They don't come I don't come. Amazing

One of those Queens is Whitney Houston’s Mama Sissy Houston. Elvis touched a lot of hearts and minds with this beautiful song written by Mac Davis. May they both RIP.

No auto tune. Just pure talent!

@finallythere100

Жыл бұрын

Dude needs to LISTEN !!! IMMERSE !!! Elvis sang music of multiple genres. (gospel, Rock and roll, R & B... ) Also, a bit of trivia, the song was written by Mac Davis an old time Country singer from that era...

@michellebeauchamp1044

Жыл бұрын

Also NEVER lipsynced , obvious because every time he sang a song, there were subtle variations that his life long fans will recognize from "this album" or "this movie" even from this "date" concert in "this" city... He was That memorable and spectacular.

@theresaboom7711

Жыл бұрын

Yes Elvis had pure TALENT!!!

@michelleperu1947

Жыл бұрын

Yes he did

@ItsMaisyDaisy

Жыл бұрын

@@michellebeauchamp1044 OH definitely! Once in concert when singing 'Suspicious Minds', he was in his pose, legs apart, down low to the stage and sang "I hope this suit don't tear up, baby'. Another time, same song, he sang "You know I'd never lie to you, no not much...".

I’ve said this before, there isn’t a more heartbreaking line in any song than “and his momma cries”. It just tears your heart out 😢.

@gayle5967

Жыл бұрын

Elvis added that line, to the lyrics of the song by the writer Mac Davis. Mac liked what Elvis added with that line, and they kept it in the song. It really brings the story full circle and makes it hit home.

@ChefBarb58

6 ай бұрын

AMEN ❤ love Mac but ELVIS SHOULD OF got more.. NO one else then would do this song.. Matter of fact no one could do it the MAN E.P.❤

This song had great meaning to Elvis. He grew up very poor, among many black folks. His musical influence began in a black church as a young boy. He got his start with many legends down on Beal Street in Memphis. He understood this life, he lived it. They were HIS people. I'm glad you covered this one. There has been an outcry for change from many people (white and black) since waaaaaaay back. It still goes on today. I can't imagine anyone not caring about what happens to these kids just trying to survive. I live close to Little Rock, Arkansas and the gangs and gun violence is so bad, seems someone is shot and killed everyday. It's heartbreaking. Elvis wanted change way back in his day. He was very generous when he saw someone in need. He had a massive drug addiction but he had a beautiful heart. ❤️

@terrikelley5333

Жыл бұрын

You hit everything right on, the drug problems he had came from to many doctors giving one drug for this problem and other for another reason. In the end, he was taking drugs to sleep and drugs to stay awake. Let alone the pain pills.

@QUINTUSMAXIMUS

Жыл бұрын

@@terrikelley5333 Well, Elvis probably had IBS, which is horrible to have. It sucks even today with today's doctors to have it. Him and Kurt Cobain were trying to numb the pain. Kurt had a name for what he had by the 1990s, but the doctors shrugged and had no solutions. Same mostly today, too. Also, a lot of people with IBS have sleep problems, histamine issues, can have high homocysteine which can lead to heart-attacks if not properly checked with the right vitamins, supplements.

@germyw

Жыл бұрын

Buuuut he was also racist. Hanging out with us, copying us doesn’t mean that he felt we were equal.

@35daphni

Жыл бұрын

@@germyw He also insisted that his backup singers and any other black people with him were treated with the same hospitality that he was, when he toured. There was still a lot of segregation going on back at that time, but he wasn't having that.

@joankisloski6972

Жыл бұрын

@@germyw Looks like you don't know Elvis

Elvis grew up in the getto of poverty . He was never a racist . He was heavily influenced by black music 🎶 Bravo , he told it straight up . Mac Davis wrote this and many more masterpieces ♥️😢😭💎

Elvis grew up poor and was inspired by the music at the black churches. I’m glad he would go back to his roots and bring in the Queens. You’re right about the the pressure of performing live music and the energy you can pick up from the crowd. This song is timeless. It still lives in the streets of Chicago today. God bless you. You’re doing a great job on your channel-opening people’s eyes... and ears.

@gilliancheshire3596

Жыл бұрын

Worth watching Elvis and black community part 1 and 2 Elvis only ever showed love.

@marilara4117

Жыл бұрын

You're right, but they're not only in Chicago, they're all over the world today. And it still rings true. The cycle keeps repeating itself and one parent households. And they do, they still turn their heads and look the other way. While we have children and people out here just killing each other. If they only knew who exactly is behind all this.

@picolafrye756

Жыл бұрын

I'm soon to be 73. My first time hearing this song, really like it.

@James-ux5kv

Жыл бұрын

His very original roots lie in gospel music.

Elvis wasn't racist. He did grow up poor he loved everyone. This is an enspiring song. This is still going on today. Lord help our country.

You have no idea how much love he had in his heart for everyone around him.

It's nice to see young people getting into Elvis. I'm only 21 and I looovvee Elvis. It's nice there are some people who do still. Don't let his memory die.

Elvis recorded this in 1969. Fabulous reaction. I get emotional watching you youngsters discover our generation's beautiful music and ❤️ it

@moosehead1183

Жыл бұрын

I was 11 in 1969...we had some of the best didn't we.

@AmericanPatriot-st1mi

Жыл бұрын

I came into this world in 1968 and Elvis was all I new. Love this man.

Those wonderful backup singers are The Sweet Inspirations. They were with Elvis from his first Vegas show in 1969 till his death in 1977. Besides the Vegas residencies they toured with him, every tour for those 8 years. I saw Elvis in concert twice & his rapport with those ladies was a great part of the show. He had a great sense of humor & loved to joke around with them. You should react to "Suspicious Minds" live in Las Vegas to see a little example of that. Each one of those ladies has said, in many interviews over the years, that they loved Elvis & he loved them too. There was a lot of mutual respect between them. Estelle Brown said that when he hired them, at the first rehearsal she called him "Boss" & he said "No, I'm not your boss. I'm your brother". That says a lot about Elvis's character. Everyone talks about how humble & kind he was even though he was the biggest superstar in the world.💙

@punkydoodle4774

Жыл бұрын

One of The Sweet Inspirations was Whitney Houston's mom, Cissy.

@bethshadid2087

Жыл бұрын

The fact that he was fixen to turn down a concert because they wouldn't let those beautiful woman in...told them if they don't get to come in and sing then I don't.

@dwightdow8495

Жыл бұрын

Whitney Houstan's mom was one of his singers

@conniec7650

Жыл бұрын

@@punkydoodle4774 Cissy was a Sweet Inspirations singer, but she left the group and the remaining members sang backup for Elvis.

I'm so glad you listened to this one, Elvis understood what it was like to grow up poor, it was his life as well. When he was very young his father went to jail for forging a check at a grocery store, just trying to buy food for his family...This is one of the reasons Elvis had such a humble and giving heart right from the start and right up to the end. In 1974 he bought his cook her own home, just outright gave it to her. Another story is about him being at a car dealership buying a Cadillac and there was a woman just looking at the new cars and he asked her if she liked them. She of course said yes but that she could never afford one.. so he bought her one right then and there. Yes he was a gorgeous looking man, had the sex appeal of 10 men combined, lol. He had an amazing voice, a God given talent. BUT its his heart that really reached out and touched you. They'll never be another like him..

The man was basically a combination of perfect entertainer and preacher! He told the truth but in a way that made people that didn’t even want to listen HAVE to listen! Powerful! I heard this as a very young child like 50 years ago and it made its mark on my heart way back then! My mama played it on repeat. Good job Elvis! RIP

This song still makes me cry all these years later because sadly nothing has changed. We have learned NOTHING!!

@Pamsmith59

Жыл бұрын

To me, the main message of this song is for men (and women) to be responsible for their seed and stop spreading it around (you know, consider instead the marriage covenant). But THAT has gotten worse (thank you Kardashians). Poverty has and always will exist; but we now have birth control which should improve our lives but has not. Why? Because people insist on doing what feels good instead of what is responsible.

@dlovink6655

Жыл бұрын

Amen🙏

@jessedylan6162

Жыл бұрын

Kentucky Rain is another favorite of mine, check it out@Mary Smith

@lindahenderson3819

Жыл бұрын

I totally agree. We seem to be regressing.

@marysmith1922

Жыл бұрын

@@jessedylan6162 will do thanks. ❤️🌹

Elvis grew up very poor and lived in the ghetto he lived in a 2 room shotvgun shack house that his dad built there were days when his family didn't even have running water he lived very very poor. But he never forgot where he came from and had such a generous heart and helped alot of people , even people he didn't even know ... if you haven't done a reaction to the documtary of elvis and the black community part 1 and part 2 I suggest you check it out. you'll get a better understanding what elvis was up against back in the day....

@avisburleson3145

Жыл бұрын

One of the background singers was Whitney Houston mom

@RitaMae13

Жыл бұрын

Many poor white lived in the ghetto.

@ccoop3774

Жыл бұрын

I cannot remember the exact people, but Elvis broke barriers. Men like Chuck Berry, Little Richard, men that were famous at that time, would stop by Graceland and jam with him!

@joycewebster1060

Жыл бұрын

My mom loved Elvis & even got a kiss on the cheek from him.

@lindaconnal780

Жыл бұрын

A very humble man he was a gentleman always said yes sir or mam his mother Gladys was so proud of him he was never the same when his mama passed away 😢 I still cry listening to him ❤️

Elvis is, in my opinion, the greatest artist of ALL time! Effortless natural, raw talent. Such a smooth (sexy) voice. As you said, they didn’t alter his voice (because no need to) and his backup singers were always the best too. His voice in any song always gives me chills. Just such an extraordinary, authentic talent. There will never be anyone who comes close to his ability to sing any style of music and do it like he did. He did it all and did it perfectly. So sad that he died so young. I am a huge Elvis fan, even though he was 30 years older than me. He could sing, dance, act and looked sexy doing it all! 🔥

@tinapermenter5102

10 ай бұрын

Yes he did

@kelbatt7729

3 ай бұрын

If we could bring just one back -it would have to be Elvis

I wasn’t really into Elvis like most people, so this is the first time I ever really listened to the words to this song. It made me tear up. Thank you for the fresh outlook. And you are just adorable, by the way. I’m old enough to be your grandma.

This was actually written by a friend of his Mac Davis. Not to take away from Elvis here but to just give credit to the guy who wrote it. Davis wrote it because as a kid who had a black friend growing up he didn't understand why his friend couldn't come visit him in his neighborhood or he couldn't go there.

@celticbelle4004

Жыл бұрын

I actually prefer Davis' version. There is so much emotion in his voice.

@Wendy-ov5hu

Жыл бұрын

@@celticbelle4004 mac davis was a great song writer and entertainer.

@lisamitchell7317

Жыл бұрын

Elvis bought it from Davis because of his background. So they both had reasons for it. And I believe most people knew where it come from.

@TheEricthefruitbat

Жыл бұрын

And no one else would touch the song because of the content. Elvis had no reservations about singing/recording it.

@musicgtts

Жыл бұрын

@@lisamitchell7317 this song was pitched first to Sammy Davis jr. Who rejected it and suggested it be offered to Elvis Presley secondary to his childhood poverty.

I'm 56 and I've listen to this song over and over when I was a little girl at my Grandma's house and I would cry to it.And right now I'm crying again 😥 God Bless America Again God bless our Children

@jokelly1880

Жыл бұрын

IKR Sherry. Song made me cry when I was 10 and I just got teared up again.

@colleenvasilopoulos3066

Жыл бұрын

I still cry hearing this song 😢

@micdrop504

Жыл бұрын

Me too

Elvis Presley grew up with black friends as a child and his earlier influence was Gospel music, Spirituals.and blues. I have always loved his music.

As a British person i was a child when this song came out and now as an adult it has such a strong meaning please when reacting to "old" songs listen to the whole song before reacting it will really be a bettee experience for you

That was a very controversial song then. Certain people around Elvis told him NOT to to it. You don't tell Elvis what to sing and what not to sing. One of my favorites. I saw him in Vegas in 1972 and he is the man.

I'm glad that you can appreciate this song, but listen to it without stopping it or talking thru it. Powerful.

@normadrumm4338

Жыл бұрын

Listen. No words. Just soak it in

@tytusmeister9836

Жыл бұрын

@@normadrumm4338 You can’t. Copyright infringement will stop him from being able to make money off of his videos. You have to stop it every once in a while, in order to avoid that.

@kathyharvey8275

Жыл бұрын

Some songs just need to be listened too .

@primatecarer3707

Жыл бұрын

But this is this young man’s video. It’s about him and his impressions of Elvis and his songs. If you want to listen to the song straight thru go to an Elvis channel. I love Elvis. But I love that this young man is digging deep in to his music. I appreciate that a lot.

I enjoyed your reaction. Elvis was awesome. Thank you.

I really love how so many young people are finally getting to Elvis. I remember watching one of these and the young man said that he grew hearing that Elvis was a big joke. He never new how much of an influence and impact that Elvis made on the black community. He didn’t live in a world of colors. He lived in a world where people were people. And he cared deeply for them all regardless of their race. Thank you for listening really listening to Elvis. Because he also grew up in the ghetto and he never forgot where he came from and he was never ashamed of where he came from.

You have no idea the courage it took for a white man to sing this song back in those times, Elvis was color blind unlike most of his contemporaries. The difference is how he lived his life, loved and cared for people of all creeds and colors.

@mikematusek4233

Жыл бұрын

Another fact, is that it was written by the white man Mac Davis.

@tonyaadkins6377

Жыл бұрын

Amen!

@BookemDanno311

Жыл бұрын

@Lexi Mojito Another racist that thinks this song *must* be about a black kid because he is poor and in the ghetto. Let me guess: you "don't have a racist bone in your body", right? Great job, Lexi!

@charmaineelizabeth8723

Жыл бұрын

Amen✨🎀🪶

@twotwogardenst

Жыл бұрын

Amen!

Ahhhhh… much much better. I give you kudos to opening up your mind and learning about the forefathers of rock ‘n’ roll. Without Elvis there is no Michael Jackson, Freddie Mercury, Prince, Rolling Stones, modern day pop or rap. Elvis was the first major superstar and teen idol who changed the music business. In fact he changed society in a lot of good ways. He was the straw that stirred the drink. Give yourself some time, you’ll need it. There’s a lot of history and a lot of music business firsts that happened. Elvis broke the racial barriers big-time. You’ll see that as you continue your journey if you just give it some time and some patience. Kudos again and I’m looking forward to your journey. Elvis was an integrator he was about bringing people together of all different walks of life. He was a huge supporter of the civil rights movement NAACP and MLK.

@martintimberlake2243

Жыл бұрын

When I was growing up listening to and LOVING ELVIS I Did not understand all the hate and complaining about Elvis from the news, This is the reason

@kimpayton727

Жыл бұрын

This is why he was considered "The King", people didn't understand how he grew up and lived... He grew up poor but loved. Most people don't look into his background they only see things after he was famous and wealthy. RIP Elvis, you will never be forgotten🙏🙏❤️❤️

@flickrennels

Жыл бұрын

And there’s no Elvis without the likes of Rosetta Tharpe, Chuck Barry, and more. All music feeds on what came before and grows within the culture and imagination of the musician. Elvis helped bring black composers of early rock/gospel to white audiences. It was a complicated relationship. Elvis was an amazing performer and incredible singer and was quick to give credit to those who came before him.

A friend of my Mom's had a son in the Army with Elvis. Elvis WROTE a sweet letter to this older woman, and she told us about it. He was something else. He had a strong connection to the Black community and took his back-up singers with him, along with all of the other musicians on tour. I believe he credited the influence of a number of Black musicians to the style he developed in his music.

I'm old enough to be your grandma. You'd really appreciate watching Elvis Presley life story. His father went to jail when he was little. The only place he and his mama Gladys could afford to live was in a black neighborhood. Elvis learn to sing spiritual songs at the black church. The 1st time he went on the radio with it's alright Mama everyone thought he was black till he mentioned the highschool he went to. Elvis had soul. He didn't see color and even though he became very Rich he was at heart s simple country man.

I remember hearing Elvis sing “If I Can Dream” and thinking as a young girl that he was an activist at heart. Then, upon hearing “In The Ghetto” feeling every emotion that we were being taught not to feel. Elvis didn’t give a rip! He knew how controversial the words were, and how singing this song in public could not only end his career but could prove to be detrimental to him in a physical way. Still, he knew the importance of standing up for what was, and still is, right, regardless of the outcome! Thank you for taking the time to listen to this incredible song and commenting.

Amazing Baritone...Tremendous range high and low...Never has been another voice like Elvis...He had a gift...

@tonyaadkins6377

Жыл бұрын

Or anyone that looks that good doing it! 🥰

@juliusq75

Жыл бұрын

There was another voice like his- his father. Very close.

This shows the bravery of the man. This was written by Mac Davis who was told not to record it, so it was given to Elvis. His advisors told him not to record it, but he knew the importance of the song and did anyways. Elvis came from a very poor background, and so he identified with the pain and the cycle of misery that is so hard to escape. Elvis was a great supporter of Dr Martin Luther King and is also known for the song If I Can Dream

Elvis tell's a story with some of his song's such as this one. Elvis grew up poor in the ghetto with his father in prison. Many of his boyhood friends were black in the ghetto. This song comes from his own personal experience and he want's people to know what it's really like. This man is very deep. We truly lost a legend when Elvis passed too early. Just like Michael Jackson. A big regret I have myself is not going to see Michael in concert. Elvis was a bit before my time. Great video man keep up the good work.

Great reaction. Elvis was very much invested in civil rights. He grew up on the proverbial "wrong side of the tracks". His first introduction to. Music was from that setting. I HIGHLY recommend IF I CAN DREAM. It's an amazing and moving song. Once again he was told not to perform this song, but he did it against the wishes of everyone in remembrance of his recently lost friend MK. Jr. Elvis is the original mega star. I was 9 when he died and was obsessed with him before he passed away because he could bring everything to the table. Keep in listening going man! I love that you're enjoying him!

If you are serious about learning about the old music, you have a looooong and happy journey ahead of you.

@winwinmyfriend4727

Жыл бұрын

Very true.

Loved your channel! Loved your commentary! Loved your energy! Elvis was the man!!

Elvis always had his backup singers of color. He was scheduled to perform once in a southern city and was told he could not have his black backup singers. He told them if they could not be on stage with him then he would not perform. The show went on with him and his backup singers. One of them was Whitney Houston's mom.

You are getting there. Thanks for giving Elvis a second look. Knowing who the man Elvis was will help you appreciate who he is, what he did and how he changed the culture. Before you get into Jailhouse Rock, Suspicious Minds, Hound Dog and Polk Salad Annie take a minute to find out his roots and who influenced him. He was an entertainer that who was willing to put it all on the line for what he believed in and didn’t back down. “If I Can Dream” is a great song to do next and learn the history behind the song. It would be meaningful to cut that song today, but think how much more meaningful it was for Elvis to sing it back in 1968 even against the advise of others around him. Elvis changed the culture of music for everyone of all races and backgrounds, and we are all better off for it. Thanks for being willing to go down the Elvis rabbit hole. It will surely make you a more rounded music guy in the end.

Songs back in the day was not auto tuned. They relied on their voice. This was true singing.

The more you listen to Elvis the more you will like him. Elvis sang this in 1969. I listen to Elvis every day. I am so happy to see the younger generation listening to this great music by the King of rock and roll. Elvis is the best !

Elvis Presley was raised on Black Gospel music and when he was a little boy he use to go to a Black Church yep awesome

The Sweet Inspirations were definitely Queens! Cissy Houston, Whitney's mother, was in the group as well. Elvis's band, the TCB Band, was some of the best musicians of the day. The song was written by Mac Davis, a Hall of Fame songwriter and recording artist who was popular in the 70s. Elvis was the real deal sweetie, I was a kid when this came out and since both my parents were Elvis fans, I became one too. And 56 years along, I still am.

@johnbjorkiii5190

Жыл бұрын

I thought Cissy was Whitney's Auntie?!?!

@ChristChickAutistic

Жыл бұрын

@@johnbjorkiii5190 nope, Cissy was Whitney's mom. Dionne Warwick was her cousin.

@phyllisgaetz7683

Жыл бұрын

@@johnbjorkiii5190 Houston is the mother of singer and actress Whitney Houston, the aunt of singers Dionne Warwick and Dee Dee Warwick, and a cousin of opera singer Leontyne Price.

Had you never wondered why he is still considered…”THE KING”?

I am so glad you support this song. With all the senseless dying of " ghetto" young men by guns and or violenc; this should be covered by a rap artist to reprieve Elvis's message to the world again!

You got me! Had to subscribe. Your reaction to this song that is so close to my heart, for years, brought me to tears. ELVIS embodied gospel,rhythm and blues.

I love the fact that Elvis is still able to open up young minds after 60 years. I love how as the song gets deeper you listen more and more, and at the end of the song i can see your understanding 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😉🌏

@primatecarer3707

Жыл бұрын

I agree.

@aNuthaRedneck

Жыл бұрын

Dude. You are such a racist with all your black this and that... Just be real and see that we all deserve real respect and not fear of skin color.

simply ELVIS PRESLEY was born and grew up in the slums of Tupelo Mississippi, that is, he was humble and simple, he never forgot his roots and when he sang the song in the ghetto he lived it and communicated it to the public only those who have grown up in humility know what it is to live and grow and above all grew up with everyone in his childhood and youth greetings thanks for sharing and greetings to all ELVIS PRESLEY fans around the world from gdl jalisco mexico I am just a humble fan of ELVIS PRESLEY

@rubenibanezquirarte6896

Жыл бұрын

thank you greetings simply ELVIS PRESLEY is one of the singers who grew up in the ghettos he never forgot his roots and the most admirable thing he lived with those who were his neighbors greetings

@rubenibanezquirarte6896

Жыл бұрын

greetings thank you

@rubenibanezquirarte6896

Жыл бұрын

greetings thank you simply ELVIS PRESLEY is a unique singer and above all things his voice was unmatched thanks for sharing greetings to all ELVIS PRESLEY fans around the world

@rubenibanezquirarte6896

Жыл бұрын

simply ELVIS PRESLEY never forgot his roots he did live and grew up as a child in a popular neighborhood he was humble and simple in his childhood and in his adolescence greetings to all ELVIS PRESLEY fans around the world from gdl jalisco mexico

@jgrand19561

Жыл бұрын

He has done that song with his Daughter who recently passed away. The service was at Graceland and it was Full of Black &White and other Folks. Color wasn't an issue. Love was the Celebration of Life. That family endured so much bad luck over the years. They continue to carry on. I hope the children and family friends carry on RIP King. Princess.and all the Presley family.

Elvis was an imperfect angel walking on Earth.

This is why Elvis was so far ahead of his time. He grew up hard and wanted everyone no matter their color to stop hurting each other and live in harmony. This is why his voice and his message is so popular across every spectrum of life in the US.

He was born in abject poverty. He grew up in a real struggle. His dad went to prison for awhile & he & his mom had to move more times. Later the 3 of them moved into a very poor mixed neighborhood ( in the 50’s) in which he absorbed the black soul mud and loved it. They became good friends with him. He was good friends with BB King and many others. His singing was so passionate at times, people realized they had tears running down their face without even realizing it. His Gospel music won 3 Grammys & were his favorites. He was very spiritual & those songs were so inspirational. Thanks for this. You’re a mighty fine specimen of this young generation. Keep up the good work.

There is not another person in this world, I doubt there ever will be a person with his beautiful voice, range and feeling put into his variety of songs he has sung in his short lifetime!!! 70 years later after first hearing him, I still listen to his beautiful singing. God gave him an unprecedented voice. Also, extreme talent.

@lesley4807

Жыл бұрын

Well said, hallelujah!

As far as I’m concerned Elvis is and has always been No 1 ❤

Listen to the cut that was on the record.its really got soul.The great Elvis❤️💯

Elvis adored HIS MOMMA!!! She was his FAVORITE THING!!! She passed early....he was young....missed her badly!

Excellent analysis young man. Sad that the struggle continues and cycle repeats. Elvis was being so real and you can feel the seriousness of this song. Important to shed light then and now. Thanks for the fantastic reaction

Elvis grew up in the ghetto. He grew up in a housing project in Memphis Tennessee. He was born in Tupelo Mississippi. His family was poor. He understood what he sang about probably from a personal perspective, living in a culture of poverty, and pulling himself out with his talent.

It was written by Mac Davis around 1969. Mac is a C&W singer/songwriter. I love this man's voice.

Loved your reaction to In The Ghetto! Always nice to see young people discovering the music of Elvis.😀

Apart from his incredible voice, looks and charisma Elvis was the most beautiful soul. 💕💕💕

Loved your reaction to this LEGENDARY tune, Pzo. Great to see a young person vibing to the epic music I grew up with. Elvis was King. ❤❤❤

Music has magic because when listened to the way it's supposed to be listened to, it broadens all horizons and crosses all cultures

Elvis was born in a 2 room shack of a house his dad built with money he borrowed from his boss on January 8, 1935 in Tupelo, Mississippi. 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 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. But he was in denial about the Cherokee blood in his own family tree. 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. When Elvis was 13, the Presley's moved to Memphis. 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.

He was real, raw, natural, sincere. There’s no one like that today. MJ not even close

My Mom, And Sisters and I Loved Elvis when I was a Child! He was Our Love! When he Passed, We All Were Devestated! I'm now 59 yrs old. I Still Love Elvis! I Loved how he sang and All his Songs and All his Band too!!!!

We all know how much he can dance and clown around and he's extremely good at it but that just makes it even more impressive how humble and restrained he is here out of respect for the subject matter. Kind of a risky song to do at that time but you can see he really means it. He was born into poverty and never forgot it.

Elvis and The Black Community would be a great video to checkout:)

@bwana-ma-coo-bah425

Жыл бұрын

why?

@marlon-jl4ge

Жыл бұрын

Why does shit zappa looked like a bum at the end? Hahahaha 🤣

Elvis was a man of heart. A Christian heart that was taught love by his momma. This song was from his heart. Thank you for doing this

A more than important song. Hey I'm Cherokee Indian and Irish; I have a super huge respect and honor for all black men. In Vietnam I spent a lot of time in a fox hole with a little black 20 year old guy named Smitty. He helped me a lot after that in dangerous situations that big tough guys would just walk away from, so it was just him and me, and we got it done and pulled it off. When I was 8 years old in 1956, I snuck into the theater with my three older sisters and saw on screen the first Elvis movie, LOVE ME TENDER, and was always a huge Elvis fan after that. So go get 'em Pzo, and keep assisting and helping the black people survive and thrive better and better. Last week I saw a movie starring Will Smith that was incredible. I am sure that Elvis admired and respected blacks more than anyone else. I look like a full-blooded Indian chief and have a full understanding about the plight of the American Indians. My grandmother was called a "non-person" in a court document dated 1874. I believe that the sanity and spirit of blacks will help bring integrity and honor to this troubled and insane planet. There are many powerful black leaders that I know who will bring happiness and power to millions and millions of blacks. This government's intention is to turn us against each other. No way man.

This song by Elvis influenced me so much as a young white girl back in the day. It opened my eyes to the world around me and to the suffering that people less fortunate than I were subjected to. Elvis was not celebrated for doing this song at the time. Our country was barely coming out segregation. Elvis Presley was not just a talented musician. He gave the world so much more than that.

@mistylee717

Жыл бұрын

Same

@johnstoddard7324

Жыл бұрын

this was not his song it was mac Davis

@mistylee717

Жыл бұрын

@@johnstoddard7324 I know. I had the Mac davis album with this song on it.

@suepall5425

Жыл бұрын

@@johnstoddard7324 This is immaterial. Elvis popularized it. I've never heard Mac Davis sing this song, but Elvis' version was on the radio continually the year it came out. He took a tremendous risk to record this song and as I said in my initial comment, it influenced me tremendously as a young person.

@suegonzaga3595

11 ай бұрын

Yes. Mac Davis wrote it. It was offered to many singers but no-one wanted to do it afraid of controversy. His manager even told him to turn it down but he refused. He said it was an important song with a message that needed to be heard

I was a teen when this came out......broke my heart. My dad was born in Chicago and swears if they hadn't left when he was 12 he never would have made it 13!

Elvis was and still is the king! In the ghetto is one of my favorite. Listen to the one with Elvis and his daughter Lisa Marie did.

What a fantastic reaction! Loved your commentary throughout. This is such an emotional song. Elvis was an ally, for sure.

Sitting on the back of my husband's motorcycle, flying through the hills of So Cal together about 10 years ago and this song came on - by the end I was sobbing. Stunned. I'd never heard it before that day. He had to pull over - I was just a mess. The dicotomy b/n the beauty of his voice and the message re: the terrible cycle. My God.

I was a teenager when this came out, this is why he was the King. Look at his history, his thing was gospel music, blues and soul. Check out his song dedicated to MLK

Mate I'm old enough to be your Grandma, 61. Younger people no matter their ethnicity need to go and listen to a lot of the music produced back in the 50s 60s and 70s, these people had talent no electronic BS interfering with their pure talent. P.S I'm in Australia and Elvis was and will always remain THE KING.

Elvis was the king! In the ghetto was written by Mac Davis and he offered the song to Sammy Davis Jr and Sammy Davis Jr said that he couldn't do the song justice but he said give it to Elvis he can do it. And the reasoning behind it was Elvis and his mother actually lived in the ghetto in Mississippi when he was a child.

This song really has a meaning. So many black, white & Hispanic’s can relate.

@kimkelly5512

Жыл бұрын

Give Mac Davis a lot of credit for writing this song!

You realize that it’s now up to you to spread this talent to everyone you know. Every friend, sibling, cousin needs to learn this music. ❤

Love love love ur reactions! Very genuine

My favorite song of his.... Powerful.

You cannot compare Michael, Jackson, and Elvis. They were both from different errors. Elvis Presley inspired Michael Jackson.

@huchlvr

Жыл бұрын

ERAS.

@silverforest4682

Жыл бұрын

Eras. Elvis had a rich voice with much more vibratto and depth to it . Jackson's voice IA great, but did not have rhe richness to it.

@lisal6121

Жыл бұрын

Eras means a length of time. Errors means mistakes. No way at all are these two words interchangeable.

@mellie5899

Жыл бұрын

@@silverforest4682 Michael Jackson was a talented boy, while Elvis was a supernaturally talented MAN. And what a beautiful man he was. Sigh.

@MegaChrissie61

Жыл бұрын

@@lisal6121 Probably autocorrect...

There was actually 2 song's Elvis did that caused a riff within his ranks, in the ghetto and if I can dream, which was inspired by MLK' s dream speech. His daddy went to prison when he was a kid for writing bad checks and Elvis and his mom moved to the ghetto. From there he discovered the blues and gospel, and as they say, the rest was history. Elvis was quite the rebel back in his day going against the grain of thinking back in that era. Listen to if I can dream..... His manager was livid about him singing it on the Christmas special he was doing and his sponsors threatened to sue him.

I'm only 24. However, I studied rock and roll history in college to get some electives out of the way. We spent A LOT of time covering Elvis. What I love most about him is he really gave black musicians/singers an opportunity. Rock and roll was basically invented in juke joints. These places had a 'white' side (playing country) and a 'black' side (playing jazz); well, people ended up getting bored w/ the music so they would go to the other side. It was this mix of cultures that created rock and roll. There were a TON of black rock and roll singers trying to make it in the early days: Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Fats Domino, & Bo Diddley. However, they were often viewed w/ stereotypes, "off-putting" or "aggressive" to white audiences; so they couldn't succeed at first. Sun Records, in Memphis, were experimenting/trying to push rock and roll out into the world. Sam Phillips worked there and discovered Elvis. All the producers said he was terrible at first; they had to do take after take. The producers all left the sound room to meet in the hallway; they were basically going to let Elvis go. But then when they walked back into the room Elvis was "grooving and shaking", and doing his thing. He was vulnerable/real unlike the other takes they did. They loved it! Sam Phillips said he would be a perfect way to introduce white audiences to the world of rock and roll. As he put it: it was the world back then, we needed a white man to introduce black rock and roll. All those black artists I mentioned earlier got extremely popular after Elvis broke down the wall. ❤

Still pulls my heart strings. The world still looks away, and we're too blind to see after 50 years this song rings just as true today as it did then. Possibly more today.

I was lucky enough to see Elvis live twice and the there will never be a better time in my life than those two magical nights. This world will never see anything like him again. Also have to thank Mac Davis for writing this song . You should learn about him too. It's so nice to see new people learn about how great he was. Thank you for bringing back a great memory!

@YaYaPaBla

Жыл бұрын

My married name is Bratton.

You may be interested that this song was written by Mac Davis back in the late 60s. Elvis was born in extreme poverty in Mississippi.

Elvis was a baritone with a 3 octave range… something a lot of singers do not have! And it came natural to him! So many things about Elvis that people don’t know. He was a lover of all music, when he was in Germany he fell in love with opera. Anyone that says he was racist have no idea what they are talking about… !!!

The King could most certainly sing...So could his beautiful back up singers.Wonderful band....Way ahead of their time.

You can love Michael and Elvis!! Both are amazing gifts to us all!!

@YaYaPaBla

Жыл бұрын

Yes indeed

If I Can Dream…. (white suit version) It was written & sung in tribute to MLK after he was assassinated, Elvis would not stay silent, he knew he could reach millions of people, so he closed his 68 Comeback Special with that song..

I'm 65 & this was one of the most real & sad songs when this came out. I loved it, still do.

"In the Ghetto" (originally titled "The Vicious Circle") is a 1969 song recorded by Elvis Presley and written by Mac Davis. It was a major hit released in 1969 as a part of Presley's comeback album. (IRONIC when it's STILL a "Vicious Circle".

Now you know why Elvis was the King. He still is the King and I will miss him til I die.

@kelbatt7729

3 ай бұрын

me too