ELVIS PRESLEY - IN THE GHETTO ( REACTION )

This REALLY hit me right in the heart. Whew… 🙏🏾
Original Video Link: • elvis presley - in the...
I do not own the rights to this song. No copyright infringement intended.
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Instagram: / thisisjayeveryday
Cashapp: $jmoore24244
Thank you all for watching! ❤️

[@abovetheinfluence9361]

From the bottom of my heart... I just want to thank you ALL. I had NO IDEA this video was gonna blow up like this, just wanted to hopefully being a smile to everyones face with a cool reaction. But yall ended up bringing a smile to my heart. These comments are just... wow. I really needed to hear these. Because of you all my spirit is lifted and my heart is full. Hope everyone is blessed and more reactions coming soon! Love yall. -J.

[@stormshadow9824]

🎈

[@stormshadow9824]

He lived it for shur.....

[@stormshadow9824]

O ya forgot..The Forces is with you Jedi...

[@bradhuskers]

Guess what? The studio recording of this song is the masterpiece. Not the live version.

[@Ladyloves1]

Always cried hearing this when I was little .. still cry hearing it. Thank you

[@keithdittmar1701]

Elvis recorded this song in 1969. That's 51 years ago and the problems were not new then. It sadly repeats itself generation after generation. I'm glad that you escaped that life.

[@abovetheinfluence9361]

Thanks Keith 🙏🏾🙏🏾 And your right it’s so sad that sooo many generations have to live through such circumstances. Hopefully we all see better days and things like this become stories of the past. 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@Coolrockndad]

@@abovetheinfluence9361 Every big city has been ruined by years of democrat rule. Time to get rid of them.

[@thefourshowflip]

@@Coolrockndad Scapegoats are a cop out; complex problems don’t have simple solutions...anyone saying otherwise is likely trying to sell you something

[@tampazeke4587]

@@Coolrockndad Idiot.

[@pisces228]

@@thefourshowflip I think it's fair to say that past policies haven't worked, so a new approach is worth trying. It is a complex problem. It's not just about government; it's also about the culture within each community that struggles.

[@onlyme114]

Elvis had a hard childhood. His parents were very poor. He was so close to them especially his mom. Everyone said he changed after she died. He had a heart of gold.

[@gabaduran3333]

Beautiful person inside and out

[@kathleenmeyer3124]

He had a heart of gold

[@SouthernArtist77]

He used to buy random people cars at the dealerships in Memphis, I grew up close to there and we would hear it on the Memphis local news.

[@bwana-ma-coo-bah425]

@@SouthernArtist77 yeah he was a nice boy, he used to by his mother flowers and that.

[@coffeync]

He was a lonely man in a crowded life. Drugs, sex, & depression.

[@richierottweiler923]

I’m a fat white 43 years old Yorkshireman and after watching this and reading some of the comments, it all but proves that good music can unite us no matter geographical location race, colour or creed. This is just beautiful

[@tracybentley4731]

And I'm a 59 yr old stokie but I so agree with you

[@richierottweiler923]

Good music is both timeless and one of the most powerful unifying forces we the people of this planet have. I really wish i could’ve seen him live. All hail the King!!!

[@rhondadananay2106]

Elvis grew up in poverty with poor black families. He never forget where he came from!

[@bobbiewhite1647]

I'm older white southern country boy and this song still puts a tear in my eyes... we ain't hate nobody... no child was put here to struggle but they do... much love to all ain't no color man it's just individuals look at it that way we all painted differently... same brush different strokes.. god bless us all more needed now than ever... peace to all..

[@eduardoreyes8343]

Its God with capital G

[@reinaldodelarosa6200]

Wow, that's the only thing you took from what he said. I pity your soul.

[@bobbiewhite1647]

@@reinaldodelarosa6200 dont pity me.. because I have no ill intentions or will towards no one.. I dont understand what you mean actually.. but what's wrong with anything I said?? People are people and our words arent always ideal but no harm meant to anyone by me..

[@bobbiewhite1647]

@@reinaldodelarosa6200 and may I add to try educating people on what you are saying rather than immediately pitying their soul...

[@reinaldodelarosa6200]

@Bobbie White sorry mate that wasn't directed at you. It was directed to the idiot that felt the need to say that "its God with capital G" mind you It's not its genius. Much respect to you Bobbie bless you.

[@roberthudson1959]

Elvis was EXTREMELY poor as a child, so this song resonated with him. The legend is that both his manager and his producer told him that he couldn't release it. He simply said, "That's my next single, son" and walked out of the room.

[@KallenMalefic]

Total alpha move. Elivs was years ahead of his time.

[@dolores0121]

There was only Parker, this time Felton had nothing to do with this song . For the Memphis sessions Chips was the producer, not Felton. Marty Lacker said:"Elvis was hesitant to do 'In The Ghetto'. Colonel Parker had always drilled into his head, 'Don't do message songs. If you do message song it's just like taking a political side. Whatever side you're gonna take is gonna offend the others'. I was in the control room after Elvis and the musicians had been working on 'In The Ghetto' a little bit. He said, 'Look, I don't think I should do this song'. I said, 'Elvis, if you're ever gonna do a song like this, this is the one'. He looked over at Chips and Chips said, 'This is a hit record. But I'll tell you what, if you don't want it, can I have the song?' Elvis didn't blink. He said, 'No, I'm gonna do it'. If Elvis would have cut 'In The Ghetto', 'Suspicious Minds, 'Don't Cry Daddy' and 'Kentucky Rain' back in Nashville, they wouldn't have come out as well as they did; all those little nuances, all the licks that are on those records came from the creativity of those musicians and Chips".

[@audreyl3313]

@@dolores0121 oh wow!! I grew up in the 60's listening to Elvis 🤗💖 I got the Nashville boxset from Graceland in January 🤗

[@stevegogliettino3681]

My life ....so sad

[@hsinjung5489]

@@stevegogliettino3681 I know it’s easy for me to say, but consider the merit of this perspective: life victimized you, like it does to everyone of us. However, you’re still the one and only gatekeeper who matters. The option of not just rolling over and be victimized, is still the one always available, and we shall not give it up. Quietly, resolutely, look right into the adversity’s eyes, and go right pass it. The past is gone and the future is up to us to create. Shake off the shackle my brother. The most important step is right in front of you. Keep absorbing the lessons life does provide and make progress every step of the way.

[@sallyevans5734]

I've heard this song hundreds of times and I still get goosebumps.

[@errolcollins7647]

This brings a tear to my eye every time i hear this track even though i have never been through that experience, it seems to resonate in my soul. Great reaction Bro.

[@jimdavis2385]

When you hear Elvis sing In the Ghetto and If I Can Dream, you realize that in the late 1960's this very famous man was speaking up for folks that were just like he was 30 years earlier: poor, dad in prison, living in public housing, and from the wrong side of the tracks. He kept his political views to himself, but he knew racism was wrong and no one should be left in poverty in the USA.

[@annfrost3323]

His dad was not in jail. Never. He was a truck driver and they lived in a small simple house in Tupelo Mississippi. He was born a twin but his brother died at birth. Elvis was an only child. His mother passed away when Elvis was in Germany in the Army. His father lived to old age. Elvis, his father Vernon and his mother Gladys are buried in his house in Memphis. I visited the house in 1993. It is still open to visitors.

[@annfrost3323]

They were poor but they were not in public housing. If you don't know, don't invent.

[@memphisflashfan1]

His father did spend time in Parchman Farm which was part of the Mississippi Prison System. Very harsh conditions. He had sold a hog and felt that what he was paid wasn’t fair so he altered the check and got caught. He served 8 months of a 3 year sentence. While EP was born in the house that Vernon built, eventually they were unable to afford even that. So they ended up in the Shake Rag neighborhood in Tupelo. This was an extremely poor section of South Tupelo. It was a Black neighborhood of which there were three other homes set aside for white people. I’m mentioning this to make the point that these people were very poor.

[@avidadolares]

Its important to know that this song was written by Mac Davis, not Elvis. While Elvis's version is the most popular, the lyrics and the sentiment Elvis expresses wonderfully derives from Mac Davis, so he deserves a ton of credit for this song too.

[@rachet0708]

@@annfrost3323 maybe you should actually know what you are talking about before you publicly demonstrate your ignorance. First of all Vernon did time on a Mississippi work farm which was the equivalent of being in county jail by todays standards. Second, the family lived in one of three houses reserved for poor whites on the black side of the tracks of Tupelo because there was no such thing as public housing in Tupelo. In 1949 Vernon moved the family to Lauderdale Courts in Memphis Tn which was a PUBLIC HOUSING FACILITY. Manner of fact, built in 1938, it was one of the first public housing complexes in the U.S as part of FDRs WPA. So it's you who is inventing yet does not have a damn clue what you are talking about.

[@bettyvan1213]

This song was written by Mac Davis, who passed this year.

[@othermotte]

Here is Mac talking about how the he came to write it kzbin.info/www/bejne/jXi2n4ech6-febs

[@sharonl.baxter1216]

Mac Davis was a great singer too!

[@andya857]

This song always make me cry, i am blessed , Thank you my Man...Bless you and yous...

[@andya857]

@@sharonl.baxter1216 R.I.P Mac...

[@fast03vette4me]

WOW I just found out Mac Davis passed away. A very talented musician and performer. RIP

[@IILockNLoadII]

I didn't grow up in the ghetto, but I grew up poor. This song touches the hearts and souls of everyone that grew up with the odds stacked against you. If you make it out, help another - never forget where you come from and use the hunger and the anger to fuel a positive change in your life and others. Thanks for sharing your emotions and thoughts. There is not a single time that I can listen to this song and not cry. Peace.

[@angiechambless1092]

I was 8 when I heard this song. I played it on a record player and remembering crying my eyes out. I didn't know where Chicago was but it broke my heart. Now in 2022, still breaks my heart. The worse thing of all is realizing the cycle still continues to this day, and even worse. I shutter even thinking about how many young men died, and how many mother's hearts have been broken. It's just so sad.

[@barbarat5729]

Right there with you. I was also eight. It touched me then and still does. I still cry when I hear it.

[@joeytirado7704]

Yeup and for all his vaunted skills Obama didn't change ANYTHING for the better in Chicago and in fact once he got the mad money after leaving White House bought a 12 million house on Martha's Vineyard in a community that is 87% white. Elvis lived at Graceland which is 64% black today (Memphis was 38% black in 1970) and probably would still be living there if he was alive since he bought the house in 1957- so who is really walking the walk? Long live Elvis.

[@RastaSaiyaman]

Elvis grew up dirt poor, he KNEW the reality this song tells about, which is why it hits you so hard, he sings it like he lived it, nothing hits as hard as the truth.

[@Je-Vette]

IMO he sang everything with heart

[@TheGreekPoet]

One of the best reactions for this song, ever. Genuine, real and all heart. Elvis lived that song too. That's the magic of Elvis. He was so authentic.

[@patriciahillman2866]

Elvis sang that song way back when. He came from the ghetto.

[@bobbauer2287]

THANKS GEORGE I AGREE

[@bobbauer2287]

@@patriciahillman2866 Right Patricia great song Elvis so perfect for it

[@trinabells6517]

ABSOLUTELY!! Im getting all beta over here lol 😢 life ain't easy we all go through it and god's plan is for us to do the right thing even if we were poor or lucky enough to be rich if that's lucky anyway we might have different hair and color skin but we all come from the same God 🙏

[@leetempo]

Elvis was not once in a lifetime he was once in an eternity….. he was godly and heaven sent ❤

[@momf4635]

I am 62yrs old when I was a kid I loved Elvis. His music taught me a lot. I grew up very poor & I would do odd jobs around town so I could get a little cash to buy 45 records of every song Elvis had out. My mom kicked me out of the house & sent me to Los Angeles & threw everything I had away. I had to grow up fast, I was 16. I've lived in the ghetto, I've been homeless & hungry. Elvis Presley's songs inspired me to not give up. I'm still poor but I have a place to live & plenty to eat. There is a lot more to my story which I won't mention. I just wanted to say thank you Elvis for your inspiration. One other thing, when I turned 50 my sister cought a plane to Missouri & took me to Memphis & I got to go on a tour through Elvis Presley's home, I will never forget. Truely Amazing.

[@patriciarobinson7154]

I'm from 🇮🇪 Ireland too and I learned this song not long after it came out. I asked my mom what a ghetto was and she told me. I've always wanted to appreciate what we had back then and still do. Mom and dad are gone now but my love of this song has lasted all my life. It's horrid to think he knew what it was like back then and tried to tell everyone what was going on and nothing changed. We have even more ghettos around the world today and the powers that be still don't listen. Thanks Patricia

[@stevegans731]

One of those backup singers was Whitney Houston's mother.

[@abovetheinfluence9361]

Whoa... that's wild! Didn't know her mom had a singing career... thanks for the gem Steve!

[@boscokid9524]

I think it was her aunt.

[@aschulte7502]

@@boscokid9524 it was her mother, Cissy Houston en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cissy_Houston

[@outoftheirskulls5676]

Yes. Cissy Huston. Of Note: After Elvis was done with his band practice. Everyday when Whitney was out of school. Whitney and Elvis, would practice singing together and work on arrangements for over 3 hours.

[@amarasunflower6914]

Sissy Houston left the sweet inspirations before they were his back up singers.

[@barbarawalsh4936]

I was just 9 years old when this came out. It has made me cry every time I have heard it. I have 5 Black mixed children, and this was played in our house frequently, as they were raised up in the inner city. I worked with Homeless and Low Income individuals and families for more than 35 years. Many lives were made better. Elvis was a very gifted man, who viewed life with "eyes wide open.'

[@abovetheinfluence9361]

Thats powerful work you did and I thank you for the many lives you've helped. This song is definitely a tear jerker for sure.

[@nunutinkerperfect]

Sending love and peace 💕💕💕

[@bonnie3937]

I was about 10, made me cry then and does now too.❤❤

[@davidscroggins7728]

Love you brother. Elvis had gotten his heart and it came out. I'm a white man who also grew up in the ghetto and the ghetto never changes. Desperation brings many evils but God will help us overcome if we totally sell out on him

[@stacie2695]

Elvis lived the ghetto life. His friends were Black. His church was Black. He had deep respect for his fellow huMANs. God bless you Sir.

[@kathyharze4308]

Elvis grew up in poverty Sammy Davis Jr was offered this song first he said no but he said Elvis should it he did it in 1969 he felt it needed to be sung was a time of a lot of civil unrest in America his manager didn't want him to do it but Elvis did it as you could see a powerful song which sadly is still relevant today people think Elvis was just a rock n roll singer but he did so many genres of music a lot of messages he sang in them Walk a mile in my shoes and Just pretend are 2 great songs as well with his unique voice awesome thank you stay safe 😷✌👍

[@abovetheinfluence9361]

Thanks so much for the history Kathy! I think Elvis was definitely the right person for the song. I appreciate the info and thank you for watching!

[@edb6690]

Elvis growing up in poverty is an understatement. He was born in East Tupelo, Mississippi, the family lived in a little shack with the dirt as the floor. When he was around 12 or 13, they had moved to a housing project in Memphis. This song resonated very strongly with him.

[@williamedwards7299]

I feel you brother. I didn’t grow up in the ghetto. I grew up in the trailer park. It was pretty much the same thing. Poor is poor. I’m glad to see you made it🙏🏼❤️

[@rosemarie20]

Yeah, poor is poor; I know that one first hand myself, trailer park and all.

[@lioneljoseduterte4847]

The trailer park is the poor white man's ghetto. You're right, from the US to timbuktu, poor is poor.

[@andrewforbes146]

well said i feel u mate we get it brother hugs and waves hi from Australia

[@wvob6752]

Raised in a diverse coal mining very small town years ago. We all went to school together and the families shared what they had to eat with each other. This was before segregation.

[@starcandy147]

@@wvob6752 How old are you?

[@italianbtch6773]

That's why he was called the King there will never be another Elvis.

[@biocentricworld5956]

Your reaction to this Elvis song moved me as did your story and your truth. Elvis grew up hanging out on Beal Street in Memphis with black singers teaching him about the blues when it was taboo for white guys to break segregation protocol. He surrounded himself with black singers on stage all through the 70s because, like him, they came from extreme poverty and didn't talk like rich people who he had problems connecting with. They reminded him of his roots both vocally and spiritually. He did two social message songs which he had to fight his manager to record and perform because he really wanted to get his message across...So to hear people speculating that he was a racist just because he came from an era where racism was prevalent is absurd when you know the man's history. He even had Whitney Huston's mother in his gospel group, Cissy Houston. All those great gospel singers testify on video that Elvis was the opposite of a racist and hated how black people were being treated. Music is the one thing that connects all of us, it can unite people where politicians fail. People who feel its wavelength become one whatever creed and skin shade they may be. As Bob Marley says "One Love." Subscribing.

[@carlospopovich]

Hunger doesn't know color... #onelove

[@virginiamarshman8142]

Amen.

[@susannewitt6112]

#BLM

[@smartdog9]

@@susannewitt6112 im a black man but what the hell has color got to do with it... study socioenomonics happens in mainly white neighborhoods too

[@flawlesswhoreless7691]

@@smartdog9 thank you for saying that brother stay strong we’re get through this together

[@smartdog9]

@@cbrturbo72 Happens everywhere agreed - just sick of this 'racist blm bullsh*t'. the only way to stop racism is stop talking about it... morgan freeman

[@jamesmathews1023]

When we all learn the ghetto doesn't have a color is when we all will learn to respect and love one another!!!!

[@mikemaricle9941]

Race was never mentioned in this song, it's all about the Benjamin$.

[@bwana-ma-coo-bah425]

the ghetto does have color.

[@jillh7403]

Yes James!!! Thank you Love from Michigan ❤️

[@johnwhite626]

Bang on and well said ! - " the ghetto doesn't have a colour" - we experience the Ghetto in all countries.

[@bwana-ma-coo-bah425]

@@johnwhite626 the ghetto does have color. you should learn white ghetto has privileges', black does not.

[@maureen-rn3pv]

Young man I’m 67 and watching your reaction all the way from Australia, I cried for you as you tried not to recall your past. Despite all that, we have to thank your grandmother for raising you into a sensible respectful lovely young man. This song by Elvis says a lot of different things. G’day from Gold Coast Australia. You’ve got my subscription.

[@Realmasterorder]

Amazing song amazing Voice Elvis was "the King" for his generation for a Reason ! This song was so Real so touching,if this does not hit your heart you probably dont have one and your pretty much dead inside.

[@jackmcnamara6973]

Hey man. So sorry about what you went through as a youngster. Hope it's brighter days for you and your closest now.

[@abovetheinfluence9361]

Thanks Jack! I truly appreciate the kind words and blessings you way as well my friend. 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@lottejirasek4444]

What Jack wrote. Lots of love from Norway

[@edgignac6940]

Heavy and real, lift each other up.

[@gormgroundstroem9703]

The live Version have more speed and POWER. Test the Master tape

[@raymondmealey9620]

Try Elvis If I Can Dream (Live) 68 Comeback Special White Outfit,This is a Song About The Great Martin Luther King.

[@paulmuaddib3470]

The sad thing is how current and relevant the song Is today, I respect the honesty in your reaction 🙏

[@sketchyold]

Yes. Except lots of times there is no gun in the dead man’s hand.

[@harmony331000]

People don’t seem to appreciate exactly how big it actually was to record this back then , it was very risky, and it’s horrifying to hear how relevant it still is🥺I’m incredibly privileged, no doubt about it!

[@james-cq3mi]

As a 79 year old fellow, I was so moved by your authentic story of your past. Your humility will serve you well. Thanks for your honesty, It got to me.

[@bethreads3294]

This song is over 50 years old and still so relevant today. Kids need so much help.

[@bwana-ma-coo-bah425]

so what have you done to change things?

[@marlon-jl4ge]

Zappa was garbage, overrated

[@marlon-jl4ge]

Come up with something New, zappa fan, hahahaha

[@marlon5172]

I am your fan ,zappa fan

[@arlenefisher1164]

@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425 you troll every Elvis site... don't you have anything else to do??????????

[@beatriceruth8516]

So many of us suffered through poverty, difficult childhoods, growing up too fast. I pray the cycle breaks for us all. God bless!

[@terryhowie3099]

God bless you Beatrice!

[@sharonvincent4238]

It’s good to hear someone sing or talk about the ghetto from a sympathetic rather than judgmental point of view. Elvis understood because he lived it.

[@gabrielvazquez7244]

Elvis words were powerful, even the words he left unsaid.He never mentioned a Dad once, but he mentions several times a mom who cries. Things don't change much in the ghetto, what he said way back then is still happening today

[@mamaj6028]

Knowing nothing has really changed made me cry harder. The fact that it affected you as a grown man with bad memories speaks volumes. Remember you are a survivor, you made it. Bless you.

[@Bambino_60]

Elvis got me crying over here

[@crankiemanx8423]

Close to tears every time I hear this song .gets right to the heart ...nothing much has changed all these years ...Elvis was a great emotional story teller.thank you for sharing your story ...much respect to you 💗🙏💗

[@NewAmeicanSpirit]

So, Elvis was born in 1932 in Tupelo Mississippi and grew up listening to the older black dudes in the area playing blues/jazz on the porch. When he first came on the radio most folks thought he was black. His style and voice. Beautiful man!

[@kerryknight228]

This song gets me every time. Always remember how special you are.

[@abovetheinfluence9361]

Thank you Kerry! Same to you as well my friend. 🙏🏾

[@MS-ep9fw]

We got "new to us" shoes twice a year from Goodwill. Easter and back to school. We spent our summers barefoot. Mom made biscuits for our bread. I remember having potatoes for every meal. I didn't know we were poor until I saw how others lived. We were wealthy with love.

[@kindking8009]

This song was written by Mac Davis, but it was the perfect song for Elvis because he grew up in the ghetto of Tupelo Mississippi. While his dad was in jail for altering a check, he and his mother lived in one of the few white houses in a black neighborhood. They were very poor and most of Elvis's friends were poor and black. But that's where his love of the blues and gospel came from, so we've all been blessed by his journey.

[@pauloararaquara]

And do you notice how at the end of the song he picks it up and throws it in the audience's faces? The man! Eternal Elvis!

[@alanwhetstone3922]

It hits you right in the feels

[@abovetheinfluence9361]

In such a powerful way...

[@archertal0762]

@@abovetheinfluence9361 Thanks for sharing your experience brother.👍

[@andreadennison6832]

You did not bring anybody down at all, I got tears in my eyes. That is exactly why Elvis sang this song, to bring awareness. Thank you for sharing your story with us and I am very sorry you had to go through that. I wish you blessings and all the best for your future.🙂

[@mikerichards1264]

"In The Ghetto" is one of the many magnificent songs Elvis sang. It is a song of truth. Simplicity. There is nothing imaginary in the lyrics of this song. My ancestral heritage is American Indian, European, and Africa (Sierra Leone). I was raised in the south, and I understand poverty, society, and the rainbow of hope that we should pursue.

[@cherylsmith4102]

Elvis grew up in the ghetto,,his musical influence was from black music,,,,And EVERYONE loved him and his God`s gift that he shared! He did that song later in his life,,his music grew up as he did after doing time in the service,,,Thank-you for sharing this,,,I grew up listening to his music and this song was by far the deepest felt song he ever did. My favorite!

[@williamquinlan2193]

Elvis's If I Can Dream would be a good choice for a reaction as a message for hope that compliments this song.

[@largemouthhunter5014]

Every time I hear this I remember the times my brother and myself would have to split a can of green beans for dinner or have a ketchup sandwich. Those memories keep me on the grind even into my 50s. Never take anything for granted. Great post 👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@hegonefishing9122]

A good night was hot dogs sliced down the middle fried in REAL butter on toast with McDonald's ketchup paks. My brother and I used to go to our buddies house and shoot birds in the backyard with the bb gun and que them up until the cops came and confiscated the gun....

[@susanmn744]

Elvis was born and mostly raised in the Ghetto, Tupelo Mississippi. He grew up watching and listening to the blues players on the street corners. He had a vision to help others, God bless him, he was ahead of his time.. we need more like him today.

[@jasonrushton5991]

Elvis grew up the poor of the poorest in southern USA. His mother never recoverd from the death of his Brother. A 1969 recorded song, that, sadly, still hit's home today. Everytime I hear this tune it bring's me to tear's with the Soul he sing's it with. From me a white Skinhead who's music is everything from Elvis to Nothern Soul, to Acid House, Chicago House, to SKA of the late 70s early 80's. Never judge someone by the way they look, where they live. We are People.

[@mikenijboer1292]

Watching African Americans listening to this song, made me realize almost nothing has changed since the song was recorded

[@JustMe-vk4fn]

Those who are targeted by racism? It's almost impossible to escape. Those who are NOT targeted? To them, it's as if racism doesn't even exist.

[@karlyoungman4062]

the song doesn't mention race

[@hitandruncommentor]

Poverty, hunger, don’t care about skin. Elvis grew up dirt floor poor in Appalachia; one of these poorest areas in the world, to this day. He’s singing about growing up in the ghetto because that was Elvis. There’s just one race guys and we need to learn that.

[@jimbothompson6540]

Yup buncha single horny moms

[@bwana-ma-coo-bah425]

@@huskerchickmissy what did Elvis do for the black community. Don't tell me what people said. tell me what he did.

[@scottderechinsky9896]

If I Can Dream. The one where he's wearing the white suit. One of the most emotional performances you'll ever see

[@LunaJo67WDHTMJ]

Such a powerful song, one of my favorites of Elvis. I remember when he died, Most people think he's only rock and roll, but he was influenced by a lot of music. He loved gospel and the blues. Des[ite his tragic personal life, such a great artist: you see that a lot. L:J

[@b-man1232]

Song gives me the goosebumps every time I listen to it!!! The man had some incredible AND VERY meaningful music!!!!

[@loribrooks7273]

It's hard to hear this song but it's beautiful. The line that got me was "how his hunger burned ". I remember.

[@davehagi9883]

All I can sat is, yes.

[@Stopthisrightnow560]

For me it's "he tries to run but he don't get far..." Just the futility of the statement. You know what's going to happen.

[@daxmusix]

That was the most powerful emotional moment in reactions I’ve ever experienced. Thank you for letting it go and staying in the moment for yourself. Truly amazing what great music can do to our souls and release from our souls. Good on ya, man 😉

[@geraldruby9701]

That song still applies after all these years. Isn't time we tried to make things better? Black men and woman are still dying in the street. We are still singing, marching, and the lyrics haven't changed. I love songs that make social statements. This one is tremendous. Elvis sings another song you may like to review: "Walk a Mile in my Shoes". I hope you read this.

[@abovetheinfluence9361]

Appreciate you so much my friend!

[@JohnSmith-cd1cq]

If I had to close my eyes and imagine real hard as to how a choir of angels would sing as one enters the pearly gates, Im almost positive it would sound as beautiful as the young ladies singing with Elvis during this song. Their tone and power is unbelievable.

[@evelynmabe7877]

For all the Millions he was worth, he never forgot where he came from!!!!! The 2nd part of Elvis and the Black Community tells you where and how he grew up!

[@terri8988]

One of Elvis back up signers was Whitney Houston’s mom.

[@arohataurerewa3020]

Kudos to you brother. Your Grandmother is to be commended through the struggles of life, that you were one of those who escaped the poverty trap. Elvis, through songs, bought depth and soulful meaning and it showed. He was poverty stricken but was lifted up through singing in church choirs and related to the brotherhood youth back then.

[@stevepomeroy-rockin-pa-realtor]

The great Sammy Davis Jr famously turned this song down. Sammy stated that "I could not give the song its justice because I never grew up in that life, in the ghetto".... but that he did know "one singer that did live that life" as a young child and would be able to "give the song credence, Elvis Presley." No one would record this Mac Davis song IN THE GHETTO as it was too raw, especially during the race riots in the 1960s. A top RCA executive said we can't release it. Elvis heard it and said, "That's my next single, son" and walked away. Only Elvis was willing to risk his career to get that record on the air-waves. Only Elvis could have performed it and gotten the radio play when it came out in the late 1960's, during the Civil Rights Movement. He made it his platform. One of his major public statements on the issues of racism and poverty. Without uttering a single press release or public statement. Not a single political word or comment. The amazing power of song by a very brave, loving and generous human being.

[@headhuterdk]

Look… as a young one I struggled with my family as this boy in the song and as Elvis had.. I grew up stumbling upon this song realizing that i knew what he meant. Coaches and family stopped the future that most kids would’ve endured. Today I get to try and help multiple people each day become better than what the cards that were dealt to them. We get closer everyday making this country more supportive at growing the next generation. Let’s do it with faith, patriotism and family values.

[@melissagayheart7716]

This is one of my favorite Elvis songs, but it makes me cry ❤

[@kierstenridgway4634]

I have to say as a mom with a kid who has troubles, we are not from the ghetto. The part of this song that makes cry every time is about his momma crying. I've been there. Still am.

[@janetgiddings5538]

🙏🏼

[@williampeyatt4476]

WELCOME TO THE BIRTHPLACE Elvis Aaron Presley was born in Tupelo, Mississippi on January 8, 1935 to Vernon and Gladys Presley. Born in a two-room house built by his father, grandfather and uncle, Elvis was one of twin brothers born to the Presleys. His brother, Jessie Garon was stillborn. Elvis grew up in Tupelo surrounded by his extended family including his grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Financially, times were hard on Vernon

[@tphillips37]

Still gives me goosebumps. Elvis put so much raw emotion into this song.

[@tanyagaer2272]

I heard this song as a young child and cried. I still cry when I hear it.

[@bandini22221]

Yours is one of the most real reactions I've seen. Thank you for approaching this song with respect. I'll be back, man.

[@Matthew00049]

Elvis was a lover of music and people. He brought everyone together thru his music

[@msdarby515]

I'm 57 year old white woman. We had hard times, but it was brief, thank goodness, because I'm not sure if I was faced with a truly difficult life if I would have come out of it. So God bless you for, as we say, rising above your raising. Bless your grandmother for being there for you. I appreciate your channel. I've watched you react to the older music and you do a good job. Insightful. 👍❤️

[@hillsboroughguy]

You have a nice heart my friend and Elvis grew up in the ghetto too. Thank you for playing Elvis.

[@jaymick5]

This song gives me chills. From so many years ago when Mac Davis wrote the song, and today in 2021 that we have not learned how to live together, and love each otherAnd take care of each other we’re all in this planet together let’s live in love like we want to be here together and take care of all our children.

[@JAYCMD]

No one could convey passion and emotion in a a lyric like Elvis Presley

[@TheFromaniac]

Elvis suffered a lot of false accusations from many black people who were jealous of his success. He grew up dirt poor and came from nothing. Raised in a Southern Baptist church singing with black choir members he didn’t steal “soul” he WAS soul. One of the many examples of his character was after he made it big on his first TV appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show he refused to sing Hound Dog and had to stand up against his manager and the TV producers to sing what he wanted to. He had promised his mother that if he ever got on TV he would sing Amazing Grace for her. And he did just that. His humility was a great example to all.

[@dedawg15]

One of my favorite Elvis songs. Thanks for the reaction. It has hit me the same way every time. I have none of your real life experience but this song should touch anyone with a soul.

[@jennyramsey1000]

Can't believe you've never heard this song! King of rock! Elvis lived beyond his time.

[@sontwo3948]

I love this young guy's reaction. Elvis was magic. I was a 30 year old white guy in 1977, the year Elvis died. Broke my heart. Broke everyone's. So did this song about another young man's tragic life.

[@msblue1003]

Most amazing! This's surely Elvis most meaningful interpretation ever

[@JIMuser-vh3Zxx]

This particular song really touches the soul and arises feelings of how it is for so many ..my eyes swelled up listening to the message in this song . Elvis hit it right on the head

[@bethdodge3359]

You made it out and just look at ya, spreading good vibes! I was in LA for the riots (last century Rodney King) the civil unrest was (still is) off the charts, Elvis was truly a bridge to the people, when you grow up in poverty you never never forget it. Impeccable reaction.

[@abovetheinfluence9361]

Thank you Beth! Doing my best to spread as many good vibes as possible! Elvis definitely made something special with this song.

[@zoz011]

Sometimes songs get made that wake us up to realities of life. Thank you. Elvis was a legend.

[@clairedresdon8785]

You didn’t bring anyone down, life isn’t always roses and for some the thorns start way to early. Climbing out of poverty, child abuse, dysfunctional families, alcohol and drugs for so many of us takes courage and it can certainly feel very lonely, and grief when you have to leave loved ones behind to create a future for yourself, but you gotta get out before you get swallowed up. These things never get forgotten no matter how big you make it, and as we see that still 50 yrs from when Elvis sang that song, it is still exactly relevant, unfortunately, it still speaks to us today because the fight still goes on. Respect man.

[@MindFeather]

thank you for your truth and your history. may you find peace and health and inspiration all around on every side.

[@abovetheinfluence9361]

Appreciate you Garth. 🙏🏾Peace, health and, inspiration to you as well my friend.

[@despinakollas]

This song ahead of it’s time. So it’s obvious this has been going on all along. God bless all my brothers and sisters. 🙏🏼

[@debralarrabee4530]

I’m a boomer. My parents grew up in the Great Depression, before there were food stamps or rent subsidies or welfare or Social Security. My great grandma would boil potatoes with skin on, peel them, keep the skin for herself and the kids, give the potato flesh to her husband for lunch. Times were hard, and you learned to barter, make do, make over or do without. Virtually everyone had a home garden to grow veggies and fruit if their yard was large enough. It’s sad but we all need to learn how to knead dough to make our own bread, preserve fruit, plant veggies etc. we all know the gov’t can’t be trusted to take care of us so we have to take care of ourselves.

[@Asherfonseca]

Love this song. I didn't eat if our neighbors didn't help us. I slept in coats because our building's boiler was broken for months. I wore the same pants for damn nearly all summer, I still remember how I felt looking at the pants before I had to put them back on. I purchased everything I needed myself from the age of 13. I did everything to get money. I think about all the guys I grew up with that life took it's pound of flesh from, and I am blessed to be able to have reached my age and be able to have children call me Dad.

[@BackyardButcher]

Wow! You just popped up on my recommendations, and this reaction is beautiful! It certainly does resonate for those who have grown up in the ghetto. I'm sorry that this song brought up bad memories, but it appears that you are a successful, grounded man who has overcome, but not forgotten, his roots

[@angiesparks4684]

Bless you, I’m so glad that life didn’t take you. You have a wonderful smile. Elvis and that voice could sure tell a story.

[@blakepowers777]

I am a lifelong Elvis fan. I also have always had a connection to Chicago. I used to cry listening to this song when I was 5 years old. Thank you for this video. God bless.

[@victoriakidd-cromis1124]

Elvis grew up literally dirt poor. The house he was born in had a dirt floor. Elvis sang from the heart. Check out the "duet" of Elvis and his daughter, Lisa singing this song. It always makes me cry.

[@cherylloman7859]

You didn’t bring anyone down - that song touched you & your reaction brought a tear to my eye. Sorry you had to go through that - God bless you. Glad you had your Grandmother to love & raise you❤️

[@persefani2854]

Bless you, brother. I felt your pain. But beloved, you are being a light in the darkness. Let your light shine. Every time you bring a smile to someone's face or show them you care? That might be a first for them in a very long time. That is true mercy and that is grace personified. God bless you.

[@MicheleMJJ]

Elvis put his heart and soul into this songl. He cared for all people.

[@osmosisosmosis727]

Elvis knew poverty but was humble with heart glad u seen it stay greatful share What u can for good of others I'm 78 yr old grannies who lived it also God bless us all

[@maryknight3405]

I just wanted to give you a hug. Food insecurity is crazy in a country that is so blessed with abundance. The fact that this song is almost 50 years old and we STILL have the same problems because too many have simply turned their heads and looked the other way.

[@karolyn8644]

In a world where so much music seems like meaningless noise, it is good that this profound masterpiece is still listened to and appreciated. Thank you for your honest reaction.

[@ShadowLightVideos]

Elvis forever our King. Sad that so many of his songs are still so relevant to. Will there ever be an end to poverty, racism and violence against innocent people? Elvis' old songs should be re-released with proceeds being donated today's causes. People need to hear his timeless message. Thanks for sharing this old GOAT's music. You help keep him alive.

[@michellejackson6679]

I love that u put up this video of Elvis... I'm a blond, green eyed, 54 yr old white woman... however.. raised on Elvis.. and that song.. If I Can Dream.. has been my Fav song since I heard the 68 Special . To me... no skin color... Elvis Presley .. hands down the KING of Rock ..And MICHAEL JACKSON... kine of POP... that's just me... I would truly love this world more If we all just appreciated each other.. ...no skin tyype, religion, and truly NO HATE