ELVIS PRESLEY “IN THE GHETTO” | REACTION

[@robjones2408]

Vernon Presley said:-"We were poor, we weren't prejudiced". Neither was Elvis. "In The Ghetto" and "If I Can Dream" shows the true side of Elvis in the 60s. He was a class act.

[@ainsleyperry5192]

Before Elvis picked up this song and recorded it . No one would record the song it was to raw. An R.C.A. executive said we can't release it. Elvis Said, " Thats my next single, son" and walked away. Only Elvis could have got that record on the air-waves. Cheers, Chris Perry.

[@jamelakajamal]

👍🏾

[@donnaritch4934]

One more thing about that song, it was written by Mac Davis, who is a singer in his own right, just not near as famous as Elvis was/is. They were quite good friends and Davis wrote this song and after Elvis heard the comments about it being "too raw", he decided to do it and insisted on it. Mac Davis was quite a lucrative song writer back in those days.

[@sunnybaig2961]

The king

[@mrmjb1960]

From the From Elvis in Memphis album.

[@thecw301]

He recorded it secretly at American Studios in Memphis instead of RCA, as execs there didn't like the song. Elvis knew better.

[@glennvieregge934]

Elvis didn't see color , he saw good in everybody. Love my Elvis!!!

[@jonfazzone5125]

My Dad worked in New York where Elvis was in Concert one night. I think Radio City Music Hall my Dad said most other Performers were either rude or Stand-offish. Dad said when the ushers were gathering around to get the Luncheon Spread together for Elvis & his Crew , Elvis called all the Ushers over to the Food. He told them to get Chairs and Sit Down. No one knew what to do. So Elvis said C’mon get some chairs & sit so I can serve you Lunch. And that’s what Elvis did. Elvis served the Ushers Lunch that Day. My Dad was so Happy to tell that Story whenever possible. Elvis was a Kind Humble Human

[@endurancejunky7474]

Tremendous story. Like many. EP was inspiring!

[@davidmccall4776]

He never forgot where he came from, and that was part of what made him the very very special person that he was. RIP EAP in God's TLC, and we'll TCB until we meet again. Adios.

[@jennymagidson1925]

Hearing you say, "No, thank YOU, brother" is probably one of the most heartfelt reactions to this song that I've ever heard.

[@aquilifergroup]

Amen. I agree

[@mattyo1216]

Was thinking the same thing. Blessings to you..

[@tem3111]

When he said that, it caught me in the feels.

[@danielleybelly411]

@@tem3111 Same. Same. Wow.

[@johanstrom3271]

I bawled like an abandoned toddler

[@dodiesdiary]

Presley came from a poor family, just across from the equally broke black community. It was hearing their gospel, blues and other music, that influenced the young Elvis.

[@RobinMarkowitzcoolmedia]

Actually he lived IN two different predominantly black neighborhoods in Tupelo.

[@RobinMarkowitzcoolmedia]

To elaborate, Commerce Street and Mulberry Alley (which no longer exists) were two dingy commercial areas on the south fringe of Shake Rag. Elvis was about 11-12 at that time. They lived behind the businesses in what were little more than sheds. By the time they lived in Mulberry Alley, they were close to homeless as it was a hovel. An African American landowner who lived in the almost all-black Park Hill neighborhood on the better side of the tracks, literally, asked Vernon if he was looking to move. He could rent them half a house that was designated "white" on land that backed up to his own land. Vernon told Gladys and Elvis that they were leaving Shake Rag. The new place was like a paradise to the Presleys. Elvis played with a group of young boys his age, who were black and Vernon struggled to make the rent. Elvis had access to all the food Grandpa Bell was growing, Vernon built the children a tree house, and the house itself had indoor plumbing including a bathtub. School was not pleasant for Elvis; only one boy was allowed or even wanted to visit Elvis at his home, and Elvis was treated as an outcast in school. But when he got home, he was welcomed by the Bells and other black families living on The Hill. The folks who lived there were more likely to be teachers, ministers, nurses. The white people who lived there, though, were later described by a white Tupeloean as "poor, poor people." They spent about a year there, which was long for them. But they had to leave. Vernon was running white lightning to try to make the rent, and they had to get out of Mississippi. They put their belongings on top of a 1939 Plymouth that somehow got them to Memphis, where they all lived for the rest of their lives. In 1948 Memphis, no one expected Elvis Presley to amount to anything. He beat the odds.

[@SilentCriket]

@Jaime Alonzo OMG, i seen that movie when i was a child & that is still to this day one of the funniest things I've seen.

[@SilentCriket]

@Jaime Alonzo as a white kid in white town introduced me to black America & i think that's what Steve Martin was trying to do. By being overtly racist, it made us rethink our biases. Like looking in the mirror & not liking what we saw, even while we laughed... lol

[@RobinMarkowitzcoolmedia]

@Jaime Alonzo No comment. Well . . . oddly, uh, truth is stranger than fiction. This was no joke. Tupelo's black community gave sanctuary to the poorest white families. They were in limbo: they had nowhere to go.

[@cherylk6164]

Here's a comment for you. In the late 50's or early 60's when Elvis was touring all over the South, they went to a stadium to perform and the organisers said that his black back-up singers had to go in the back entrance and Elvis refused. He said if they can't go in where I get to go in, we won't perform. They relented.

[@jaroschj]

yep, that's white liberals for you.

[@jaroschj]

Drek Picken Preach it!

[@scoobeeturpin]

I'm sure it happened on more than one occasion, but that's a famous story from when they played Houston in the 70s. They acted ugly towards the Sweets and EP said I'm out of here. Then they changed their tune. People who accuse EP of racism just have no idea what they are talking about.

[@Drimirin]

@Drek Picken And now it's Republicans, things have changed in the past 60 to 70 years. Nice whataboutism though, it's all you really have, I know.

[@tvan1011]

@@Drimirin you have no real proof, all these cities where this oppression happens have been ran by democrats for decades.i dont know much but I know people not parties are what matters.

[@rogeredwards4871]

Muhammad Ali called Elvis "the sweetest man he ever met"

[@jorybrosted7298]

Yep. Elvis also was an addict, which to me says he was a deeply sensitive and feeling person, something most people miss about or don’t realize about those who struggle with addiction.

[@demonrat9667]

He was a conflicted man. He felt guilty about his fame and punished himself for it.

[@kellydoub9462]

Of course he was sweet, most of us southerns are sweet, caring people.

[@carowells1607]

I was just watching some very old clips from the original Candid Camera. Ali was in a few and he was so good with the kids. Totally down to earth.

[@carowells1607]

@@kellydoub9462 That’s why there were so many racists in the south., it’s always been a very sweet and caring place

[@nonenone3257]

Just stopping to acknowledge the backup singers, The Sweet Inspirations. They were with Elvis for years.

[@George_Pueblo]

Eye. stupid Benny Spy unforgotten voices , so great.

[@phillipwolf8689]

levyrat AR Elvis was one of the best ever about his TCB band and all the singers on stage with him, he took the time to introduce all of them every show. He was the reason the audience was there, he could have easily not acknowledged the band and no one would have thought about it, but that wasn’t who he was. He’s still and always will be the King.

[@therealfronzilla]

Whitney Houston's mom was one of them. I saw an interview with Whitney, when she described what it was like meeting Elvis when she was a little girl....something along the lines of you, wow, that's a really good looking man

[@RubySlippers1100]

@@therealfronzilla He was one of the most handsome men I had EVER seen! Absolutely GORGEOUS!!

[@brianstorm5488]

Eye. stupid Benny Spy Yes and Elvis was their best man, and gifted them a House! Chuck D was wrong (and even he admits it) Elvis was no racist!

[@ymceryt]

I like how Jamal let the song play through. Such a solemn song deserving of attention and silence from the listener.

[@eloisebush4595]

Loved by all.love your heart felt reaction.

[@roug4509]

After Elvis recorded this, the record producer told him that he couldn't release it on his new album because people would think it was to edgy.... Elvis smiled and said" Son, that will be my next #1 hit "! And it was. No one in the music industry could have recorded that song...except Elvis, and he knew the importance of it. Sad thing is he could have recorded it yesterday, nothing has changed 😪 Also ... God bless you for staying strong !!!

[@terrytobinson7394]

Elvis grew up in a slum area in Mississippi amongst people of various ethnic backgrounds . His house had dirt floors. He was always sympathetic toward civil rights/equality etc. He had several black female background singers...in fact, when performing somewhere once, he was told the ladies couldn't use the front entrance and had to use the back door. Elvis told them if that's the case he won't perform there. Guess what? They allowed the ladies to use the front entrance.

[@rmathis268]

The cycle of hopelessness he is describing in this song is still relevant 50 years later for people who live in poverish communities. That's crazy.

[@DeadManPutting]

Poor . . . black white brown yellow red . . . we all matter . . . ALLLIVESMATTER

[@rmathis268]

@@DeadManPutting True but when will the middle realize that we all matter only if black and brown is included. Seems to have been a huge issue for centuries in this country.

[@dontellgucci1117]

Roy Mathis ...Please don’t fall for the bs we all have the same chances it’s not easy for some but we can be anything we want in this country Although I fear it’s changing there are laws against discrimination don’t believe it can’t happen it’s just not easy but all in you these years. I grew up on a dead end street and in the poorest house on the street. Now I didn’t become a millionaire or anything like that but I been around and drove cars that I could only look at for a long time. Went on vacations only dream of. Lived in places I only saw on tv but I worked and saved we all can do it. God bless and believe in yourself please believe in yourself

[@rmathis268]

@@dontellgucci1117 I agree, at the end if the day it's up to that individual to overcome his or her obstacles and prosper. And we all can do it. Nobody should expect more out of you than yourself.

[@mubirshu]

Mac Davis said his original title for the song was "Vicious Circle."

[@rustyweeks7259]

Elvis grew up dirt poor in rural Mississippi. When he was 13, his dad moved the family (Elvis, his mother, and himself) to Memphis where he lived in the projects. He had a twin brother that was still born. He lived poor until his first RCA hit "Heartbreak Hotel" in 1956. Elvis was 21. He died 21 years later.

[@chrisplayer6656]

For him to be singing about that in 1969 just is amazing. He didn’t have to be bringing stuff like that into the spot light but he did. Much respect to the King!

[@DarthVader1977]

spotlight*

[@debbylambert3319]

He grew up poor...so it was a spotlight on something he too knew about.

[@subg8858]

Growing up poor is not the same as being restricted to living in certain areas because of your race

[@crouchingwombathiddenquoll5641]

@@subg8858 ever seen working class terrace houses in coal mining towns in England ? If you were born there, you weren't going anywhere except down a pit.

[@Uwill49]

@@subg8858 You are not restricted because of your race. Maybe because of your mindset, but not your race.

[@allenheaps2084]

My hat is off to you Jamel for having the strength to survive and the courage to say no to gangs and drugs. God bless you brother!

[@gregclark3268]

Totally agree. He's a good man who kept his head on straight

[@yunengdahl3675]

Whitney Houston's mother was a backup singer for Elvis. She was one of the Sweet Inspirations

[@dothemath1540]

I had no idea. So glad to know that.

[@NeomaFinn]

Whitney Houston came from a very talented musical family. Cissy Houston, Dionne Warwick, Dee Dee Warwick, and Leontyne Price are/were all extraordinary singers in their own rights. And all related to Whitney.

[@Mark13091961]

True, but only for a very short time (his first Las Vegas season in 69) she left to look after her kids

[@sukioki6983]

People forget that Elvis grew up extremely poor in Tupelo Ms... He knows what it's like to struggle... He was very big on giving money to charity

[@brianstorm5488]

Yes and unlike some celebs most of his donations were made anonymously, millions per year at Christmas time (Graceland maintained the financial records.) I think that says a lot. He also got a thrill to see poor people of all races at a car lot, and surprise these strangers by buying them a car outright. There are many such stories reported in short Memphis newspaper articles, and became a telling part of his legend.

[@peterhineinlegen4672]

I think of the joke Johnny Cash said - he saw a guy walking down the street wearing only one shoe. So he called out "Hey buddy, you lost a shoe!" and the guy says "nah, I FOUND one!"

[@peterhineinlegen4672]

Yes, but it was more like pointing it out. Kind of like telling someone their shoe is untied.

[@timwilliams8496]

Is Tupelo right above Onebelo in Mississippi ???

[@cooperhawk6396]

Elvis was born poor in Mississippi. Mac Davis wrote the song. It was a top ten single in 1969. Great song.

[@TheIndependentLens]

Yep. They lived in a shack basically and I think got kicked out of the shack.

[@kennethgoforth809]

I was sitting here trying my best to remember who the heck wrote it lol thanks Cooper, Mac was also a pretty good entertainer himself

[@carlspackler91]

The term dirt floor poor was made for the way people like The King grew up

[@brianstorm5488]

MontcomHorror Actually they were kicked out of public housing in Memphis when Elvis was a teen. They said the income from both parents working exceeded public assistance, but their money was paying for Elvis’ fathers’ injured back. Vernon was a laborer and originally a sharecropper, and he built the shotgun shack Elvis was born in with his brother Vester. The Presley family moved from that shack to Memphis to find better work in the city. Elvis attended many black church gospel music services in Mississippi and in Memphis, starting at very early age.

[@TheIndependentLens]

BRIANSTORM Well, aren’t you Jolly-Know-All?!?! JK. Yeah, I’m not completely up on my Elvis history. I’m much more of a Beatles fan than Elvis though I do like/love some of Elvis’ music. Some 50’s Rock’ n roll can grate on my nerves. Also as you mentioned with Elvis and churches, I’m not into gospel and he recorded a decent amount of that too. I’d say I like his later stuff better than the earlier music. This song is a fantastic example of great Elvis, later music.

[@sonnytos]

Elvis will always be a pioneer in music history. He didn't label rock'n'roll as black music, like some others did. He represented rocknroll as GOOD music. Yet he created a bridge for black musicians to surface, more and more. Elvis didn't label colors, society did. Elvis was an original rebel who went against racism by playing "black" music. Not many white people were welcomed in the blues joints on Beale Street in Memphis back in the days...Elvis was an exception. He had no intention to steal music from black people, he wanted the world to hear that awesome beat. Sammy Davis Jr., Richard Pryor, Muhammad Ali, and many more African Americans had nothing but good things to say about Elvis. Of course he wasn't a saint, but we all have our downfalls. I have nothing but respect for you brother coming out as a true winner from a rough environment. Great video.

[@beths8972]

Elvis was called the King for a reason. Amazing man

[@ursulabklyn_mia6148]

He could be singing that song today about Chicago 2019. The back up singers really brought a haunting sadness to the song.

[@TheMsmeme123]

One of the backup singers was Whitney Houston’s mom Sissy Houston..

[@lorifulcher3223]

Yes they did. It is so beautiful yet sooo haunting.

[@deanrobbins7823]

That was well put my friend!🥃🍺

[@DarthVader1977]

@Yo Ma Colin Flaherty's videos on KZbin, Minds and Bitchute.

[@englandbengal]

Yo Ma that’s the problem. We can’t look to the government to save us. We need to do it for ourselves.

[@deninevh]

Elvis' childhood was also very rough. He was teased for being different, mocked hard. I've read enough books about his life to know that when he sang this song, he FELT it.

[@alexkrauth5779]

If I recall, he grew up in ghetto himself and had a jailbird father. I could be wrong, though.

[@osquat]

Thank you your comments and story, Jamel. 👌 Elvis is greatest! ❤️ hello from Finland to you!! 😊

[@me-pm6mx]

Elvis born in Mississippi and grew up in poverty...but never forgot where he came from and stayed humble his entire life. Was known for his generosity. For example bought his cook a house. . Kentucky Rain and if I can dream are other great songs by Elvis. My personal favorite of the above two is If I can dream and is so fitting for a time such as this.

[@jamelakajamal]

👍🏾

[@RobinMarkowitzcoolmedia]

I agree. "If I Can Dream" should be on repeat on every radio and steaming service until some of this madness of hatred settles down. Elvis, had he lived to be a senior citizen, would have been very disappointed with 2019.

[@me-pm6mx]

@@RobinMarkowitzcoolmedia I agree and In the Ghetto, how timely is that? .Keep waiting for some songs from this generation that speeks of unity and love. Looks like I'm in for a long wait. The hatred is feed everyday 24/7 so it doesn't die. But one day it will change. Elvis would have been 84. Maybe you are of this generation, work on that Peter, Paul, Mary genre. lol

[@russellgay9442]

me It has always been known that Elvis grew up in poverty, but there are some newer, investigative videos on KZbin that really reveal the depth, severity and extent of the Presley family poverty, and the incredible number of times that they had to pack up and move; practically on a yearly basis because of it.

[@mt3311]

@@russellgay9442 In all of the hoopla and fame and fortune , what gets forgotten about Elvis is that he is just like his father and any other man in this country that came from nothing. Elvis found a way out of the poverty and hopelessness. He worked his way to it. Along the way he paid a terrible price. The very thing that got him out of poverty, was what got him in the end. he paid a hefty personal price to see that people were cared for. He took care of is family, and the price for their life of ease, was an early grave for him. We all as men do the same thing. We work so our family can have it a little better than we did. No matter the cost. Some pay for it like Elvis, some it is a lifetime of bad backs, failing eyes, and a whole other host of ailments. In the end we pay for it one way or another.Elvis did too. I see Elvis as a good man who worked to make life better for those around him, and it took about 30 or so years off the end of his life. That is what good men do.

[@Davidsmusicselection]

Hey I am a 60 year old white man that enjoys your reactions. Good music transcends a cultures. Keep them coming.

[@itsallgood4093]

@Ilovepotatos why do you have to make it into something?

[@boxing1940]

I am a 40 year old Mexican and I love Elvis Presley’s music. Indeed music transcends cultures.

[@heikkieronen5226]

Finland.....

[@heikkieronen5226]

@Ilovepotatos do not know, quite normal me with my fellow whiteis........

[@heikkieronen5226]

@Ilovepotatos noh, this is boring. Everyone looks like clones......

[@pattiholder8961]

“A man needs a helping hand”. This relates to everyone, whether it’s poverty or being different. Love everyone, man.

[@rwst888]

One of Elvis' quotes: "So help your brother along the way no matter where he starts, for the same God that made you, made him too, these men with broken hearts”

[@SunflowerChild82]

Never forget, Elvis was a humble, Godly, Christian man who grew up dirt poor. He knew what it felt like to be poor and never forgot what that felt like. He gave Cadillacs to poor people he met on the street for a reason. 💛

[@davidtorrey903]

brother Jamel, I am a 57 year old grown ass man from Detroit. I know what hard times are, just as you do, and i would say it has given a tough exterior. This song brings me to tears every time i hear it because Elvis put his soul into it. Keep up the great reactions and i am a new sub.

[@jamelakajamal]

THANKS DAVID🙏🏾

[@andyboz4752]

They don't make them like Elvis anymore. He had a passion that could speak to all people.

[@TheJer1963]

Like John Lennon said "before Elvis there was nothing"

[@young321bookie]

Elvis was pure evil. The whole point of this song of his was that black people in the ghetto shouldn't procreate....he was racist as f*ck.

[@bobmorris9687]

@@young321bookie You obviously didn't know Elvis...

[@young321bookie]

@@bobmorris9687 - I think I know him only too well my friend, he was a devil.

[@amc401nash6]

@@young321bookie Maybe the point of the song was to draw attention to the plight of those growing up in poverty. Perhaps you should give the song's writer Mac Davis, who grew up poor himself the benefit of doubt. As for as Elvis goes, he could afford to have lived anywhere he wish but he chose predominantly black Memphis.

[@marcoperanteau6337]

Elvis a poor poor boy from the very very poor South from humble beginnings man he never forgot it

[@belairjeff]

also acknowledging the writer, Mac Davis, who passed away yesterday at the age of 78. great tune.

[@clab5864]

Remember the Mac Davis show? He was quite a talent!

[@chicochi3]

@@clab5864 He starred in a movie about football, too. That's about all I can remember about it. It was called "North Dallas Forty"

[@brasstacks7181]

Here Here. Great songwriter/singer. RIP Mac Davis.

[@bobbyramsay1]

yes but he wrote it for Elvis

[@belairjeff]

@@bobbyramsay1 yes, i know.

[@keithp115]

My best buddy was in the service with Elvis for 2 years. He was a very giving person to all races, and genuinely loved people

[@LD-zk8ll]

I’m so glad the younger generation can appreciate Elvis. He was a master of his craft. Timeless, his work is still valid.

[@theresajackson8873]

Never fails to bring tears to my eyes. This could have been written yesterday.

[@alitiajeffries3722]

Theresa Jackson and that’s what makes it even sadder we still haven’t changed for the better

[@janinefarris2748]

I understand the majority are the police forces r r f but I also want to comment that there are a lot of misunderstandings going on and honorable policeman 2 and there is the underlying racist attitude also but I want to comment on a group of policemen that I heard about and I think it took place in Canada they had a pilot program for helping the underdog a survey analysis where they were going to try instead of arrest drug addict they were going to try to really really help them I believe it was a three-month pilot program that was implemented to try to salvage lives instead of just arrest lifelong friends chefs emerged with the police it was a beautiful program more especially in the United States so I really commend and appreciate the Canadian Police Academy because there were testimonials on the police side and on the drug addict side when there were win-win situations after about six months and trial and neither side gave up on each other they work with each other the human Spirit can transcend things if they really want to I wish we had more programs like this and I wished I would have been able to catch on to the exact program

[@janinefarris2748]

This happened I believe somewhere in the late 80s early 90s I believe it was the flash news on television I believe it was on 20/20 or 60 minutes but it was a beautiful program a battle with the police get it was somewhere in the late 80s early 90s but anybody can probably follow up in check by contacting the Canadian police he was a beautiful program sorry I didn't get the actual Source folks but I just wanted to speak on behalf of the police in this instant especially after hearing Elvis sing in the ghetto it inspired me to try to unite people this kind of activity doesn't continue if you're anyone reading my comment listen to Elvis Presley singing in the ghetto and people react to it for the first time the messages migrating across through the years an art form

[@Donamtrx]

Theresa Jackson I still cry, too🙏🏻

[@mr.2cents.846]

Don't cry daddy brought tears to my eyes.

[@brianmccarthy8732]

I am glad you didn’t keep stopping it to comment on a phrase. Elvis grew up in the ghetto as a child. That is how he learned the blues and jazz and black gospel. That’s what made elvis so unique and the grace that God gave him to perform the way he did.

[@KyleBOLL1]

Elvis was the Man, I cant believe anyone at that time could comprehend the weight of that song, to the audience it’s just another Elvis Song but it is the only one of his songs that holds a mirror up to society and says Don’t look away, if you do you have no soul.

[@harryhoudini3656]

Mac Davis wrote this song and Elvis gave it life.

[@cathyperry6763]

"mac" davis wrote several songs that elvis (along with many other singers) recorded 🧡

[@sharonworleys]

Yes he wrote it in remembrance of a black friend he had at 6 years old...❤️❤️❤️

[@kriseuribe3783]

Yeah. Mac is another amazing artist.

[@havingfun1968]

Mac Davis always knows... If you don't know what that means, watch his film, THE BEST FOOTBALL MOVIE EVER RECORDED, NORTH DALLAS FORTY! I bought his jersey and he played AWESOME as the Dallas quarterback.

[@pamelaneibuhr6959]

Harry Houdini ...wow I didn’t know that, thanks for sharing

[@deniseglenn4691]

My husband grew up in the 60’s in a rough part of Omaha; single mom working two jobs just to put food on the table and he ran the streets unsupervised. They lost count how many times they moved. His turnaround came when he met me. My family was low income but close. Said he didn’t know families could be this way. We married and raised three kids and he loved my parents and they loved him like a son. He was the sweetest, funniest and most humble man I’ve ever known besides my dad. Lost him 9 years ago and miss him every day of my life. You remind me of him as you have the same sweet spirit. Thanks for just being you and spreading a positive message.

[@bkd9511]

Grew up in Omaha in the 60's myself as a "Young Gifted and Black" Child. My Mom Loved Her Some ELVIS!

[@2Snails1Shell]

My condolences. I lost my wife to cancer in 2014. Stay well and healthy during the pandemic (etc.) (I hope everyone who may read this does as well.) 🤟🤗

[@rbrown111964]

🙏🏻❤

[@itsmommy100]

Beautiful story. Blessings to you and yours.

[@Orpilorp]

Bless your heart Denise. I grew up in Omaha. It sounds like your husband was a treasure. It sounds like you are too.❤

[@suegoff2520]

Hey man were have you been? I'm a 74yr old white woman. I love your reactions. You say what you have to say and you don't just go off on a tangent on and on. I am very happy for you. You are smart and sensible. Glad to see and hear you. May God bless you and yours.

[@Anna-Rose-]

Elvis was one of a kind. He grew up dirt poor in a one room house in Tupelo, MS. I've been to see it, it's so tiny. When he was a teenager his family moved to Memphis. He saved his money to record a record. The rest is music history. He was known for his acts of kindness. He threw out scarves at his concerts. One time, a young girl caught it. An adult snatched it away. Elvis saw that. He had them bring the child to him and gave her a beautiful sapphire cross necklace. He was amazing.

[@that.ll_do_pig]

I mean, for an adult man that partied with 14 year old females, I guess. He was talented but not so sure he was the best person.

[@811brian]

JennaB willing to bet those females probably lied about their age.

[@joekidd777]

@@that.ll_do_pig the real question is,where were the parents of those 14 year olds?

[@saintejeannedarc9460]

About the 14 yr old girls, it was a different time then and men made honest women of 14 yr old girls. Just watch the movie about Loretta Lynn, "Coal Miner's Daughter. Sissy Spacek and Tommy Lee Jones knock it out of the park, and Lynn married at 14. Her parents weren't thrilled about it, but it was done back then.

[@davidcbrumer8301]

Well let me say your mama done a great job, I think you're awesome. Love the show brah. Watch it all the time. Stay blessed

[@jamelakajamal]

Thanks David🙏🏾

[@nahthataintit6446]

Jamel_AKA_Jamal I’m amazed at your humble spirit and positivity. Even though everyone in the world might not know you, you are absolutely an inspiration I’m sure in your community. That’s where it starts anyways. Your mama must be an absolute angel to raise someone like you with many many other siblings too. Wow I’m extremely impressed by your background and who you seem to be today ☺️

[@gusshirnam3848]

A huge light went out when Elvis died. His like, never seen before or since.

[@hhollyd66]

This song still makes me cry. Every single time.

[@swisskiwi1478]

Me too

[@johnconsiglio7127]

Me three

[@terryhowie3099]

Me 4! Powerful song to this day! 58 now and brings back so many memories of my childhood or lack of a childhood in the ghetto. Single mom 6 kids, evictions, drugs, alcohol, violence, death, you name it.

[@gloriajones2350]

Me too.😥

[@sheilaseeber2007]

" if I can dream" makes me cry 😢😭 like a baby 🐥🍼, too!!!

[@bylen8589]

Elvis's father was arrested and served jail time for stealing a pig in order to feed his family. The house where he was born in Tupelo is a little shotgun house.

[@tacbear]

I lived 1 mile from Elvis's Birthplace and knew the family..but never met "E"!

[@angelarasmussen1800]

I knew he grew up poor in the south, so he probably could relate to poverty. There can be ruffians in the country as well as the city. You never hear him speak well of his father, just his mother. Maybe that's why the song is sung that way.

[@charlesrast4235]

Yep. It's just a little shack

[@starlawilson9011]

His father was a sharecropper in Mississippi. He knew poverty and desperation. My mother was a huge Elvis fan.

[@LisaRobinson0725]

Yes, EP was a spectacular and very talented singer/performing artist. And the song, In the Ghetto, was a number one hit for him. No other singer wanted to sing the song (it was controversial at that time), and so, the song was passed around Hollywood, the network/industry, and finally it got to Elvis Presley, and he LOVED IT, as he grew up impoverished, so he totally understood the message and spirit of the song, and so, it was very relatable to him in a real-life way.

[@gpo1956]

After hearing your story, I'm even more impressed with you. So glad that your life has turned for the better. Thank you for being you! God bless you and I wish you all the luck in the world.

[@jamelakajamal]

Thanks Gary🙏🏾

[@sandraguthrie276]

I’m a 60 year old white woman listening and appreciating you!!! You are a positive force in so many lives!! I enjoy all of your work!! God bless you and yours!!

[@tapsa412]

Thank you sir from Finland. I believe we have here the oldiest Elvis fanclub in the world. ❤

[@livelaughandlovelong]

Elvis grew up dirt poor. He never forgot his roots. It is amazing how this song is so relevant still. I love seeing young African Americans react to this song. I feel it in my soul. Thanks Jamel. So happy you made it out. Keep on keepin on.

[@JosephSandoval3912]

Grew up in Pilsen, Chicago, cant hardly listen to this song without tearing up.

[@johngregg9187]

So true man, any person with a true heart can't hear this song and not tear up. This song is raw and hits where it hurts.

[@daviddempsey8721]

I'm glad you found a way out. Elvis did too. It's hard to imagine his struggle, seeing where he ended up. But he never forgot where he started, and reached out to support the people around him in dignity and equality.

[@michelemelina187]

Elvis could relate to this song because he lived it and his passion comes through!

[@dmaynardabu]

I love this song and it makes me cry every time I hear it. I’m a huge Elvis fan.

[@randybailin4902]

I once worked with a black dude who tried to convince me that Elvis was racist, he just had to be because he was a white boy from Mississippi. I played this and If I Can Dream by Elvis and he admitted he was mistaken.

[@honesty_-no9he]

People confuse the man with the system. In the end the criminals who ran the system killed Elvis too. They reckoned he was worth more to them dead than alive.

[@danielaarmani9628]

Elvis was a beautiful person inside out but he was also humble as he was also born very poor but he never forgot his roots. Elvis had heavenly looks and the voice of angels, he was a gift from God as he gave so much joy to the entire world and his songs will live on from generation to generation, He is THE KING FOREVER!

[@Steve-Z68]

I never said this to anyone other than my wife and kids. I wasn't from the ghetto but came from a working class family who had no time for me and I got in a bunch of trouble with the law when I was young. My mom put me in the Army and I left for basic training 5 days after my 17th birthday. My mom cried like a baby at the airport when I was leaving and after listening to this song at 51 I could have been dead or in jail like many of the friends I had when I was roaming the streets and she would have been crying worse. I thank my mom every time I can for getting me out of that life.

[@LadybugLuv]

It is a great thing when we a look back and see what should or what could have happened to us but didn't! I am 50 too and I thank God for his grace and mercy for getting me thru when I was young and dumb!

[@Anotherpuppychild]

Oh. This made me cry. It's wonderful that you saw how very much she loved you.

[@pattisimmons67]

And I believe you will always be the proudest part of her life! I'll bet she raised a heck of a good man. Respect and Blessings to your Mom! Respect and abundant Blessings to you for understanding what she did and why. You're a good MAN and a good Son Steve Z

[@torresreb]

Your mama sounds like a loving caring mother ......

[@waynelohf7772]

God bless your mom! And God bless you for making good on the chance you were given!

[@psychicgregorytheloveguru7123]

Damn, The King can still bring tears to my eyes.

[@jamelakajamal]

So Good🙏🏾

[@nan-sea3814]

As a child, I cryed every time I heard this song

[@nomadswanderer8393]

For REAL though!

[@nomadswanderer8393]

@@nan-sea3814 ~ me too ... 😥😥😥

[@treytaylor1511]

Not the king, but he was very talented man with an impeccable range.

[@Hawkeye-ef4xf]

I really hope to live long enough to see a world where we see a man for his character, not his color.

[@williamwalters9403]

The media will never let that happen

[@tjtrashboat]

@@williamwalters9403 bruh its not the media, its the people

[@tomwlliams2264]

Elvis never said the kid was black. Ask yourself what that says about you.

[@DD_LetTheDogsOut]

For the most part, that is where we are! There are evil forces trying to divide us all again, to make us fall, and then to conquer us. We need to stay vigilant and push back against haters and trouble makers in all levels of life.

[@maureen14]

Amen.

[@goobyglock]

How could you be a "bad" person and sing like this? He had heart of gold and didn't go around bragging about it. Thank you, Jamel. Thank you Elvis.

[@jennifergreen8649]

Elvis is transcendent. His music reaches ears from all walks. Some say he's overrated but if you listen, even if the songs were not written by him, Elvis Presley makes them his own. In the ghetto is one of my faves. I was introduced to Elvis bc my grandmother loved him, my mother loved him. I love Elvis and my son loves Elvis. My grandmother, she just passed away 2 weeks ago and was there for all of us, one of us best gifts she gave us was a love for good music. ❤ u always.

[@cdpgbc-mw2kz]

Jennifer Green: Great comment. Only those who can not sing think he is overrated. I suspect Elvis' singing has helped more people get through bad times and share good times than any of those who think he is overrated.

[@jennifergreen8649]

@@cdpgbc-mw2kz thank you, and yes I totally agree.

[@terryesrom4607]

The song is still very touching today and the meaning goes deep, far too many children are born with all cards stacked against them.

[@toetz4491]

It doesnt gets better when the violent streets becomes their father figure.. and what's even more screwed up is.. when the supposed "leader activists" becomes their politician for decades with billions of dollars going thru their hands and yet their communities that they suppose to serve gets worser and worser. ..and still they vote for these corrupt politicians . smh.

[@stephenspero3201]

toetz I hear you! Look at Elijah Cummings and the crime and rodent infested squalor people are living in. People need to vote for someone that doesn't look like them, necessarily. I lived between DC and Baltimore during the hight of the crack epidemic and have been back there recently and the atmosphere is REAL BAD! Kansas City, Missouri much like many other cities continue to elect thieves that siphon off millions from education programs, after school programs, learning centers etc. It's sad to see my fellow brothers and sisters keep blindly voting Democrat and black. Time to wake up and despite how one feels about the current administration historically, regardless of what BS the MSM and acadamia feeds you, The Republican party has always been the party of civil rights. I remember the 1968 riots, Vietnam and every other atrocities to this day. We are so divided in this country it breaks my heart. MLK is crying in his grave. SMH. We have to come together as PEOPLE and AMERICANS. The media is pitting one against the other. Don't let them succeed! I'm of mixed heritage including central African, Sicilian, Native American and French. What does that make me? American! I'm proud of it. I didn't support Trump but check out some independent news, center right or even conservative viewpoints. People are sick of the BS. Nothing will get done as long as there is the constant onslaught against Trump and America. If the left continues this insanity they're going to ensure his reelection. At least he's not a career politician, he has his own money and doesn't need to pander to lobbyists to line his pockets like EVERY president b4 him except Truman and a few others. People of ALL races, religions,and socioeconomic levels are jumping the Democratic ship. This is where if disagree with a single thing I say then I'm just another facist, homophobic, mysogenistic, white supremacist, nazi etc. Based solely on my skin color, my gender, age and being a free thinker. I've been around for awhile and I'm tired of seeing the Democratic plantation owners are still at it with empty promises for votes. Until the left denounces groups like antifa who not only block people from expressing their views but come to peaceful marches with helmets, body armor, clubs, hammers, pepper spray,bottles of urine and have beat the crap out of people who just want hear a different narrative other than what their Facebook news feed and MSM is dishing out. You know what offends me? Victim mentality, entitled and "oppressed" individuals that need to take a good look in the mirror. I HAD TO and I changed my life. It's a miracle I'm not dead or in jail. I thank the powers that be that I made it this far. I'm struggling but life is a struggle. It's one day a time. If God forbid this country continues on this path of devisivness it's going to get real bad and the body count high. As far as the alphabet soup group? 57 genders?? I don't care what you are or how you identify as long as you don't bother me. Peace, love and hope.

[@cathyaudette1060]

This song makes me cry. One of Elvis' best, and sadly still true today.

[@jamelakajamal]

🙏🏾

[@debbiewilliams350]

R.I.P. MAC DAVIS. I just found out last night he wrote this song.

[@rebeccawilliams8919]

Yes he did the song was called The vishes cycle I believe. But he changed it to In the ghetto.song was released in 1969.

[@lindamaemullins5151]

Yep 😢❤️

[@avonlady93]

I just finished watching an interview he did about writing the song. It has an amazing "back story". kzbin.info/www/bejne/jXi2n4ech6-febs

[@carlajenkins1990]

I had the same reaction I ALWAYS have to this song. It's so beautiful, I just cry!!!!!

[@et8620]

He also wrote Memories, you should check out his version in the Elvis tribute video. The lyrics are more sorrowful in the original lyrics than when Elvis sang it

[@m.e.w.4394]

Elvis is the man. So true. I saw him in concert six weeks before he died. Never before, and not since then, have I ever seen a more soulful singer. That man’s voice was a gift straight from God. Even at the end of his life, his voice retained ALL of its beauty and power. Elvis is THE KING, for a reason. May he Rest In Peace & Love. I know he’s singing with the angels now.

[@janetvansky3621]

Elvis was a healer. One day at rehearsal one of his back-up singers reported she had just been to a doctor and told she had a uterine tumor. Elvis always did a prayer with the group before every performance and on this occasion he asked if he could lay his hand on her stomach. She said yes. A few days later she reported that on her follow-up visit with the doctor, there was no evidence of a tumor.

[@connieleighton4375]

I have loved this song since it came out , I was 7 with a Mom who was an huge Elvis fan living in Las Vegas and when I was old enough to understand the meaning of it - it made me cry and I still cry because I'm almost 57 and people are still fighting over the color of someone's skin and trying to keep others in poverty, making them feel like less . It's really sad that after 50 years we still haven't learned to be kind and to help our neighbors. By the way I love Elvis and I'll watch any reaction with his music , and let's remember that he felt so strongly about the issue of poverty that he was willing to put his career on the line to make this song .Much love to all ...♡

[@nanaking9560]

I believe Elvis would be heartbroken to realize that this endless cycle of poverty & hopelessness still exists today. 💔💔💔

[@kazshaw3945]

I've researched Elvis for over 10 years and I can assure you the man was beautiful inside as well as out !

[@aubreybaker2564]

Elvis grew up in a sharecropping segregated south. Going to the churches to hear the black gospel singers is one thing that inspired him. He didn't seem to care about what color someone is. I don't know about it as fact. But based on what I have read and heard in interviews. That is the vibe I got off him. Thanks for this video. These videos are a great way to remember old school stuff. And we can still enjoy and learn from it. Peace brother and have a good day my friend.

[@WorthlessDeadEnd]

Elvis Presley was an extremely generous man. Although he was a multimillionaire, he didn't hoard his wealth the way some do.

[@jameskoralewski1006]

He gave away many Cadillacs and homes to friends that he met.

[@stellardancing]

You are so real, man. Hearing you speak straight from the heart makes me like you even more dude!!

[@JNR9172]

Tears well in my eyes every time I’ve heard this song ever since I was a kid. I’m not even from the US and somehow I feel this song means something to everyone in their own personal way. Long live the King!!

[@doeharris5363]

Hi, thank you for sharing this beautiful Elvis classic it's one of my favourite songs. 😊

[@clydeb7713]

Elvis COMMANDED the stage! Nobody better EVER!!

[@JoeBrown]

Clyde Barrow Michael was better

[@FruityHachi]

Michael Jackson was better

[@clydeb7713]

@@JoeBrown Michael did not have that rich amazing voice, sorry. He copied James Brown who was a great live performer. Michael also pretty much sang one genre. Elvis covered rock,pop,country,gospel, blues,rockabilly. Over one billion records sold.

[@JoeBrown]

@@clydeb7713 Thriller sold 33 million copies alone. Forget record sells Michael held down countries! Elvis could never hit a high note or even come close to dancing like Mike.

[@clydeb7713]

@@JoeBrown Dude, did you go to school? Elvis sold 1 BILLION Records! That is 1000 million! Nobody would say Michael Jackson had a better voice than Elvis, PLEAZZZZZ! Micheal couldn't hit a low note so? Michael had way more media internet promotion to help him be popular. I'll grant he could dance better .

[@MrAlanfalk73]

If people new how much Elvis cared for black people they would be amazed, he had several black freinds from he was a kid to the day he died, among the more famous black people who were proud to call Elvis their freind were James Brown, Muhammed Ali, Jackie Wilson and Sammy Davis Jr. . And Elvis is on record calling Fats Domino the real King of Rock and he admired Roy Hammilton. He also gave SO many money and things to black (and all) people, the first electric wheelchair in Memphis to a black woman, and another time he gave a brand new Caddilac to a black woman he saw looking at a car she would never be able to afford.And there are many more stories like this.

[@99tdtdtd]

Sounds like Trump. He has many black friends too.

[@ronpritt431]

When Jackie Wilson had a heart attack on stage and slipped into a coma, Elvis paid his medical bills till he's passed in '77...Jackie died in '84

[@1gouki1]

I heard James Brown was the first person out of family to be told Elvis passed away.

[@SuperElgringo1]

He grew up eating chitlins with black people. Took me 5 minutes to find out, he grew up poor in predominantly black areas. Why do you bring these things up, without researching first.

[@stephenspero3201]

Tim Denison I know bruh! Everything is Trumps fault. Take a good look in the mirror! Quit being the tired ass oppressed victim. Try thinking for yourself once in your life not thinking of yourself! I believe there's hope for you yet. I bought into the Democratic plantation owners that have made empty promises for votes. I'm sick and tired of seeing my fellow brothers and sisters buying into the same old BS and watching the suffering as the "activists" turned politician rob the people blind i.e. Elijah Cummings and many others. I didn't support Trump but I'll tell this much. ...he's not a career politician, he has his own money and doesn't have to pander to lobbyists to line his pockets like EVERY president b4 him except Truman and a few others. Quit drinking out of the toxic Kool Ade and think FOR YOURSELF bruh. Peace, love and hope.

[@rayc2993]

Elvis grew up very poor. Thank you for inspiring others, I truly understand your feelings and emotions. If you have not been there then you do not understand. GOD BLESS YOU

[@gerardroll6468]

The great thing about Elvis was that he was able entertain “the masses”, no matter where people were from or their race or religion..... His musical gift to the world is eternal & his songs will live on forever..... This song is one of his greatest & most hard hitting ✊️😄👍✅✅✅ In regards to your noble words at the end..... THANK GOD you remained on the “right side of the tracks” (so to speak) ✌️😁

[@jamelakajamal]

Yes brotha it was tough but I made it out🙏🏾

[@gerardroll6468]

Jamel_AKA_Jamal ..... HALLELUJAH BROTHER ✋️😄🤚 🙏🙏🙏

[@donhall6626]

Jamel, I knew you were a man of character. I have enjoyed your reactions from day one, both for the music and for your kindness of spirit and your humility. It Shines through in your effervescent personality. Look forward to your posts every day.

[@jamelakajamal]

Thank You Don🙏🏾 I Appreciate You

[@Sol-kj2pj]

Jamel, I co-sign on Don Hall's eloquent sincere message to you 💯. Big props to you for overcoming & being a positive role model to your brothers growing up. Honestly, you make the world a better place. Thanks for this In the Ghetto reaction.

[@rondohunter8966]

Count me in on that. Recently discovered your reaction channel after watching others. Some made it, some did not. You are now Subscribed. Thank you Mr. Jamal.

[@tupelohoney622]

Thank you so much for reacting to one of my requests. (I'm sure, I was one of many.) As my screen name suggest, I'm from Elvis' hometown. He grew up dirt poor; his parents were sharecroppers. "In the Ghetto" was written by Mac Davis, but 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. I'm glad you were able to move beyond your childhood and your videos certainly bring joy into my life with your gentle, humble spirit.

[@jamelakajamal]

Thank you for requesting this really heartfelt song🙏🏾 I appreciate you

[@Ramielvis]

His Voice was unique.. He was picked up from God in one of a Billion

[@barbaravance6774]

@@Ramielvis So true! I was raised on Elvis. I used to wear a locket with his photo.

[@barbaravance6774]

He was an amazing person! I was a kid when died. And my whole family was in mourning for a full week. I learned so much about him. I'm an Army brat so, when we were stationed in Germany I begged my parents to take me to see where he lives there. He was a special man! He wanted to be treated just like the other guys.

[@tupelohoney622]

@@barbaravance6774 , There are still a significant number of the Presley family that live in Tupelo. Several of his cousins and their sons bear a striking resemblance to Elvis, which freaks out tourists! 😊

[@dianeaustin2414]

Elvis....such a beautiful man.

[@tylerroach928]

The American Trilogy is a must listen of Elvis

[@r.phoenix615]

One of my absolute favorites also.

[@louis-yt6595]

Best song ever

[@nl3712]

This!

[@kristenlevine3446]

The song is amazing and still sends chills down my back, even tho o am nearing 70. I remember when it came out. Elvis was a very good person.

[@massageandunwind8787]

Elvis was dirt, poor. Lost his twin brother. Grew up rough.

[@loveyourneighbor9354]

The southside of Chicago was a ghetto and he sung this in 1969 when poverty and pain was genuine. Elvis Presle "In The Ghetto is as relevant today as we watch the gangland killings going on in the southside of Chicago. He grew up in the projects of Memphis and attended a black church where gospel music 🎶 colored his professional career. He was a man of soul. Elvis had faith taught by his mother and who he dearly loved. He never judged people by the color of their skin. Loved the guy.

[@victoriayoung6165]

I don’t think a lot of people know this Elvis song but I love it… It shows such depth and understanding . It really makes me want to cry! He must of been thru something to really understand and be able to express such a deep song!!!!!

[@Mr1Gitrdone]

You seem like a good dude man. Kudos to you for handling the rough times. And helping others also, yessir , this country needs more like you, Peace.

[@JeffTiberend]

I keep thinking the same. Jamal is such a great guy and example. Much love to you and your family.

[@coleenluvscrochet3391]

Love me some Elvis 💞💞💞💞 Nothing better. A beautiful song Thank You for sharing your story. You are strong and a blessing to your family

[@jamelakajamal]

Thank You Nicole🙏🏾

[@coleenluvscrochet3391]

@@jamelakajamal You're Welcome 😊 😊.

[@waynewilliams6633]

Kentucky rain is my favorite Elvis song bar none! its got magic in it! growing up dirt poor he use too go to a place called shake rag and he was colour blind he got his style from everything he seen and done! so he was singing in the ghetto the way he recalled and he would help people in Memphis 50 charities evey year! my god he even played for his own ticket for the Hawaii concert so when you hear the great songs even the movie songs are great they all have magic in them from ( love me,to raised on rock,gospel I john, how great this art, to burning love.he new every gospel song there was! my god that impressive gift from god we are all God's children under the star's and we were lucky to have him! and he love the Beatles too recorded George Harrison Something, hey Jude, lady Madonna and even our own bee Gee's song (its only words,Olivia Newton john,(if you love me let me know) Bruce the goose as Elvis use to say was a Aussie looked after the fold backs sound engineer with felton Jarvis. he passed away some years ago now but his brother pend a book called On the road with Elvis.goodnight Elvis fans the world over. and kisses to Lisa Priscilla and the ones that loved him for his talent not his bling cars what eva jerry shilling xxx

[@coleenluvscrochet3391]

@@waynewilliams6633 He was such a wonderful talent

[@KalderiusUSA]

Most all his songs are timeless! Now you know why he was called "The King"! This song hit me when I heard it again earlier this year... got caught in the KZbin 'black hole' and came upon it. You are NOT alone when you cried to this song... I'm 55 this year and can say there have been some changes since then...but not nearly enough! The world needs more people singing songs to unite and show indifference.

[@gloriaandrea2539]

I’m a 63 years old Latina woman. I really enjoy the music and your reactions! Thank you for making this hard times a little easier. 🙏👍

[@delukard07]

wow preciosa mujer.

[@michaellombard894]

Dear Gloria- With all kindness I have to draw attention to the overused term "Latina". I know it's become very popular but, while it may seem a contemporary and equitable label, it is actually divisive and exclusionary. Meanwhile us Latin European ethnic "whites" (I'm Italian) have been standing silent.....well no longer. I am compelled to do what I can to raise awareness as to the diversity of "Latin-ness". The Latin tribe, customs and language (indeed Latin is an Italic language) are rooted in Italy. I've actually been doing this for years. And largely I get support, but frequently am ignored as well. Yet, I will continue to- simply raise awareness. Thank you for listening.💙

[@MrRoach-yo3mz]

*Whitney Houston's Mother "CISSY HOUSTON" was one of Elvis Presley's Backup SIngers (The Sweet Inspirations)*

[@stephenconway219]

Yes she was but only during the 1969 July to September shows. Cissy didnt return for the 1970s . Elvis really enjoyed the Sweet Inspirations. Beautiful voices and they were perfect for Elvis.

[@sophiasommer1466]

Most beautiful voice i ever heard. Elvis will always be my greatest hero ♥️

[@f16amech]

JESUS is the greatest hero.

[@tomb.2632]

"In The Ghetto" was released in 1969..... It was written by singer/songwriter Mac Davis! Powerful song.....

[@runawayushould]

Elvis had mad skills... Only Elvis could a song like this.

[@TheJorgealonso690]

RCA executives tried to make Elvis change his mind about recording this particular song. We must remember that Elvis' movements today may look a little silly, but he did that in the 50's. The story about the cameras on Ed Sullivan filming Elvis face and not his "Pelvis" is true. Elvis grew up in Tupello, Mississipi, in a house with one bedroom and one kitchen. He was really poor. Presley's earliest musical influence came from gospel. His mother recalled that from the age of two, at the Assembly of God church in Tupelo attended by the family, "he would slide down off my lap, run into the aisle and scramble up to the platform. There he would stand looking at the choir and trying to sing with them." In Memphis, Presley frequently attended all-night gospel singings at the Ellis Auditorium, where groups such as the Statesmen Quartet led the music in a style that, Guralnick suggests, sowed the seeds of Presley's future stage act: The Statesmen were an electric combination ... featuring some of the most thrillingly emotive singing and daringly unconventional showmanship in the entertainment world ... dressed in suits that might have come out of the window of Lansky's. ... Bass singer Jim Wetherington, known universally as the Big Chief, maintained a steady bottom, ceaselessly jiggling first his left leg, then his right, with the material of the pants leg ballooning out and shimmering. "He went about as far as you could go in gospel music," said Jake Hess. "The women would jump up, just like they do for the pop shows." Preachers frequently objected to the lewd movements ... but audiences reacted with screams and swoons. He adored the music of black gospel singer Sister Rosetta Tharpe. During his junior year, Presley began to stand out more among his classmates, largely because of his appearance: he grew his sideburns and styled his hair with rose oil and Vaseline. In his free time, he would head down to Beale Street, the heart of Memphis' thriving blues scene, and gaze longingly at the wild, flashy clothes in the windows of Lansky Brothers. By his senior year, he was wearing those clothes. He hated racism, and there is an episode in the 70's, when he was performing in a Hotel (if I'm not wrong, at Lake Tahoe Hotel), and while singing "An American Trilogy" there was a video being presented after the stage, like a giant cinema screen. When he stared at her female vocal quartet (The Sweet Inspirations) and noticed they were uncomfortable, he turned to the screen and scenes of slaves were being shown. He took the microphone support and threw it at the screen, left the stage and ended the show without any further comment. If you wanna know more about his personality, find a B.B.King interview about Elvis. B.B.King, one of my idols, said that Elvis deserved everything he got, and he didn't steal any music from the black people, other than this he opened the doors to many musicians that, without him, would never been able to perform in New York or L.A. You're absolutely right to call him "The King". If today artists can do something, is because Elvis did it first. My respects to you, man, YOU'RE AWESOME!!!!! Your Brazilian friend, Jorge

[@lc3763]

Great story

[@corneliusantonius3108]

Upvote for this Elvis one 😎🐱‍👤👍

[@jamelakajamal]

👍🏾Thank you🙏🏾

[@candace3515]

Jamal, thank you for your testimony. You’re a good man.

[@dennishuffstutler9820]

When radio stations first started playing Elvis' songs, a lot of people thought he was black.

[@MoosesValley]

A very powerful and emotional song. Appreciate your reaction and story Jamel. Glad you made it out and are doing well.

[@tammysummers5892]

Elvis is from my hometown of Tupelo Mississippi! He had a soulful voice and felt the songs he sang. He is greatly missed and appreciated.