I'm old enough to be your grandfather, so I remember this in the day. You want to know how much guts it took for him to sing this in public? It was only two years earlier that the Supreme Court ordered lower courts to use titles when talking to Black men, like Mr. or Dr., instead of "boy". Elvis decided he was rich enough to not worry about losing fans or not being played on southern radio stations. Considering when and where he grew up, this was a big thing, and people understood.
Nothing to do with being rich. Elvis never had a racist bone in his body. When a town said that hnis black backing singers could not ride with him - he said ok cancel the ride. Please check befoe yhou make such statements.
@@katherinearter6843 thank you! Most people then as now we’re not racist but there is always those that want to play the race card. I remember when I was young we had a wonderful black couple come and do Bible study with my foster family. They were a wonderful couple and I didn’t realize they were any different than the Chinese couple that lived down the street. This young man proves by feeling he had to point out the background singers race, he had several black background singers
He was told by several people including the colonel not to do the song. But he did because he felt this was a song that needed to be done at that time.
@@katherinearter6843 yep...this happened when he was fixing to play at the Houston Astrodome for the Livestock Show and Rodeo. He not only told them that he would not be playing if his backup singers didn't have a ride out to the stage, he also made them drive the ladies around the Astrodome, and a white person had to be their driver. It was awesome!
Elvis was so beloved by the black community and black entertainers. He grew up in the ghetto too. He was so poor. Never forget where he came from. Not a racist bone in his body. Thanks for sharing. Katie 😊🌸.
One of his backup singers was Whitney Houston's mother. Blacks were not supposed to be on stage back then in the state of Texas. Elvis told them that if the blacks couldn't appear on stage, then he wouldn't either.
And 50 years later the song is still relevant. I like that color is never mentioned in the song - it speaks to all of us. Let’s not have another 50 years go by.
One of those Queens is Whitney Houston’s Mama Sissy Houston. Elvis touched a lot of hearts and minds with this beautiful song written by Mac Davis. May they both RIP.
I was around when this song was released in 1969 and performed here in 1970 and trust me it took a lot of courage to do a song like this then, especially for a white man so kudos to the Elvis who is, was, and will always be the GOAT!
Credit to Mac Davis, a singer and songwriter who wrote this song, but could not sing it. Elvis had the standing to take up the challenge of the time and sing this song. But let's not forget Mac. Wanna REALLY hear a controversial song? Janice Ian singing "Society's Child". Painful even today.
According to legend, Elvis was booked to perform at an MLB stadium in Houston when he was told that his backup singers would have to use a back entrance to the facility. He basically told the promoters, "If they CAN'T come in the front, I WON'T come in." Everyone used the front door.
Dude needs to LISTEN !!! IMMERSE !!! Elvis sang music of multiple genres. (gospel, Rock and roll, R & B... ) Also, a bit of trivia, the song was written by Mac Davis an old time Country singer from that era...
Also NEVER lipsynced , obvious because every time he sang a song, there were subtle variations that his life long fans will recognize from "this album" or "this movie" even from this "date" concert in "this" city... He was That memorable and spectacular.
@@michellebeauchamp1044 OH definitely! Once in concert when singing 'Suspicious Minds', he was in his pose, legs apart, down low to the stage and sang "I hope this suit don't tear up, baby'. Another time, same song, he sang "You know I'd never lie to you, no not much...".
Elvis grew up poor and was inspired by the music at the black churches. I’m glad he would go back to his roots and bring in the Queens. You’re right about the the pressure of performing live music and the energy you can pick up from the crowd. This song is timeless. It still lives in the streets of Chicago today. God bless you. You’re doing a great job on your channel-opening people’s eyes... and ears.
You're right, but they're not only in Chicago, they're all over the world today. And it still rings true. The cycle keeps repeating itself and one parent households. And they do, they still turn their heads and look the other way. While we have children and people out here just killing each other. If they only knew who exactly is behind all this.
Elvis grew up in the deep south... he would sneak off to attend the black churches and watch and learn. He drew alot of his inspiration from these experiences. His family moved to Memphis TN the place he called home. His manager restricted Elvis from speaking out but Elvis ALWAYS WANTED TO PAY TRIBUTE to the black culture that he was inspired by. He was a humble and amazing man.
It's nice to see young people getting into Elvis. I'm only 21 and I looovvee Elvis. It's nice there are some people who do still. Don't let his memory die.
Elvis added that line, to the lyrics of the song by the writer Mac Davis. Mac liked what Elvis added with that line, and they kept it in the song. It really brings the story full circle and makes it hit home.
This song had great meaning to Elvis. He grew up very poor, among many black folks. His musical influence began in a black church as a young boy. He got his start with many legends down on Beal Street in Memphis. He understood this life, he lived it. They were HIS people. I'm glad you covered this one. There has been an outcry for change from many people (white and black) since waaaaaaay back. It still goes on today. I can't imagine anyone not caring about what happens to these kids just trying to survive. I live close to Little Rock, Arkansas and the gangs and gun violence is so bad, seems someone is shot and killed everyday. It's heartbreaking. Elvis wanted change way back in his day. He was very generous when he saw someone in need. He had a massive drug addiction but he had a beautiful heart. ❤️
You hit everything right on, the drug problems he had came from to many doctors giving one drug for this problem and other for another reason. In the end, he was taking drugs to sleep and drugs to stay awake. Let alone the pain pills.
@@terrikelley5333 Well, Elvis probably had IBS, which is horrible to have. It sucks even today with today's doctors to have it. Him and Kurt Cobain were trying to numb the pain. Kurt had a name for what he had by the 1990s, but the doctors shrugged and had no solutions. Same mostly today, too. Also, a lot of people with IBS have sleep problems, histamine issues, can have high homocysteine which can lead to heart-attacks if not properly checked with the right vitamins, supplements.
@@germyw He also insisted that his backup singers and any other black people with him were treated with the same hospitality that he was, when he toured. There was still a lot of segregation going on back at that time, but he wasn't having that.
The man was basically a combination of perfect entertainer and preacher! He told the truth but in a way that made people that didn’t even want to listen HAVE to listen! Powerful! I heard this as a very young child like 50 years ago and it made its mark on my heart way back then! My mama played it on repeat. Good job Elvis! RIP
That was a very controversial song then. Certain people around Elvis told him NOT to to it. You don't tell Elvis what to sing and what not to sing. One of my favorites. I saw him in Vegas in 1972 and he is the man.
I wasn’t really into Elvis like most people, so this is the first time I ever really listened to the words to this song. It made me tear up. Thank you for the fresh outlook. And you are just adorable, by the way. I’m old enough to be your grandma.
Elvis grew up in the getto of poverty . He was never a racist . He was heavily influenced by black music 🎶 Bravo , he told it straight up . Mac Davis wrote this and many more masterpieces ♥️😢😭💎
Those wonderful backup singers are The Sweet Inspirations. They were with Elvis from his first Vegas show in 1969 till his death in 1977. Besides the Vegas residencies they toured with him, every tour for those 8 years. I saw Elvis in concert twice & his rapport with those ladies was a great part of the show. He had a great sense of humor & loved to joke around with them. You should react to "Suspicious Minds" live in Las Vegas to see a little example of that. Each one of those ladies has said, in many interviews over the years, that they loved Elvis & he loved them too. There was a lot of mutual respect between them. Estelle Brown said that when he hired them, at the first rehearsal she called him "Boss" & he said "No, I'm not your boss. I'm your brother". That says a lot about Elvis's character. Everyone talks about how humble & kind he was even though he was the biggest superstar in the world.💙
The fact that he was fixen to turn down a concert because they wouldn't let those beautiful woman in...told them if they don't get to come in and sing then I don't.
I'm 56 and I've listen to this song over and over when I was a little girl at my Grandma's house and I would cry to it.And right now I'm crying again 😥 God Bless America Again God bless our Children
Elvis is, in my opinion, the greatest artist of ALL time! Effortless natural, raw talent. Such a smooth (sexy) voice. As you said, they didn’t alter his voice (because no need to) and his backup singers were always the best too. His voice in any song always gives me chills. Just such an extraordinary, authentic talent. There will never be anyone who comes close to his ability to sing any style of music and do it like he did. He did it all and did it perfectly. So sad that he died so young. I am a huge Elvis fan, even though he was 30 years older than me. He could sing, dance, act and looked sexy doing it all! 🔥
@@normadrumm4338 You can’t. Copyright infringement will stop him from being able to make money off of his videos. You have to stop it every once in a while, in order to avoid that.
But this is this young man’s video. It’s about him and his impressions of Elvis and his songs. If you want to listen to the song straight thru go to an Elvis channel. I love Elvis. But I love that this young man is digging deep in to his music. I appreciate that a lot.
I really love how so many young people are finally getting to Elvis. I remember watching one of these and the young man said that he grew hearing that Elvis was a big joke. He never new how much of an influence and impact that Elvis made on the black community. He didn’t live in a world of colors. He lived in a world where people were people. And he cared deeply for them all regardless of their race. Thank you for listening really listening to Elvis. Because he also grew up in the ghetto and he never forgot where he came from and he was never ashamed of where he came from.
I'm so glad you listened to this one, Elvis understood what it was like to grow up poor, it was his life as well. When he was very young his father went to jail for forging a check at a grocery store, just trying to buy food for his family...This is one of the reasons Elvis had such a humble and giving heart right from the start and right up to the end. In 1974 he bought his cook her own home, just outright gave it to her. Another story is about him being at a car dealership buying a Cadillac and there was a woman just looking at the new cars and he asked her if she liked them. She of course said yes but that she could never afford one.. so he bought her one right then and there. Yes he was a gorgeous looking man, had the sex appeal of 10 men combined, lol. He had an amazing voice, a God given talent. BUT its his heart that really reached out and touched you. They'll never be another like him..
Elvis grew up very poor and lived in the ghetto he lived in a 2 room shotvgun shack house that his dad built there were days when his family didn't even have running water he lived very very poor. But he never forgot where he came from and had such a generous heart and helped alot of people , even people he didn't even know ... if you haven't done a reaction to the documtary of elvis and the black community part 1 and part 2 I suggest you check it out. you'll get a better understanding what elvis was up against back in the day....
I cannot remember the exact people, but Elvis broke barriers. Men like Chuck Berry, Little Richard, men that were famous at that time, would stop by Graceland and jam with him!
A very humble man he was a gentleman always said yes sir or mam his mother Gladys was so proud of him he was never the same when his mama passed away 😢 I still cry listening to him ❤️
To me, the main message of this song is for men (and women) to be responsible for their seed and stop spreading it around (you know, consider instead the marriage covenant). But THAT has gotten worse (thank you Kardashians). Poverty has and always will exist; but we now have birth control which should improve our lives but has not. Why? Because people insist on doing what feels good instead of what is responsible.
Elvis always had his backup singers of color. He was scheduled to perform once in a southern city and was told he could not have his black backup singers. He told them if they could not be on stage with him then he would not perform. The show went on with him and his backup singers. One of them was Whitney Houston's mom.
The more you listen to Elvis the more you will like him. Elvis sang this in 1969. I listen to Elvis every day. I am so happy to see the younger generation listening to this great music by the King of rock and roll. Elvis is the best !
You are getting there. Thanks for giving Elvis a second look. Knowing who the man Elvis was will help you appreciate who he is, what he did and how he changed the culture. Before you get into Jailhouse Rock, Suspicious Minds, Hound Dog and Polk Salad Annie take a minute to find out his roots and who influenced him. He was an entertainer that who was willing to put it all on the line for what he believed in and didn’t back down. “If I Can Dream” is a great song to do next and learn the history behind the song. It would be meaningful to cut that song today, but think how much more meaningful it was for Elvis to sing it back in 1968 even against the advise of others around him. Elvis changed the culture of music for everyone of all races and backgrounds, and we are all better off for it. Thanks for being willing to go down the Elvis rabbit hole. It will surely make you a more rounded music guy in the end.
This was actually written by a friend of his Mac Davis. Not to take away from Elvis here but to just give credit to the guy who wrote it. Davis wrote it because as a kid who had a black friend growing up he didn't understand why his friend couldn't come visit him in his neighborhood or he couldn't go there.
@@lisamitchell7317 this song was pitched first to Sammy Davis jr. Who rejected it and suggested it be offered to Elvis Presley secondary to his childhood poverty.
Great reaction. Elvis was very much invested in civil rights. He grew up on the proverbial "wrong side of the tracks". His first introduction to. Music was from that setting. I HIGHLY recommend IF I CAN DREAM. It's an amazing and moving song. Once again he was told not to perform this song, but he did it against the wishes of everyone in remembrance of his recently lost friend MK. Jr. Elvis is the original mega star. I was 9 when he died and was obsessed with him before he passed away because he could bring everything to the table. Keep in listening going man! I love that you're enjoying him!
The Sweet Inspirations were definitely Queens! Cissy Houston, Whitney's mother, was in the group as well. Elvis's band, the TCB Band, was some of the best musicians of the day. The song was written by Mac Davis, a Hall of Fame songwriter and recording artist who was popular in the 70s. Elvis was the real deal sweetie, I was a kid when this came out and since both my parents were Elvis fans, I became one too. And 56 years along, I still am.
@@johnbjorkiii5190 Houston is the mother of singer and actress Whitney Houston, the aunt of singers Dionne Warwick and Dee Dee Warwick, and a cousin of opera singer Leontyne Price.
My Mom, And Sisters and I Loved Elvis when I was a Child! He was Our Love! When he Passed, We All Were Devestated! I'm now 59 yrs old. I Still Love Elvis! I Loved how he sang and All his Songs and All his Band too!!!!
There is not another person in this world, I doubt there ever will be a person with his beautiful voice, range and feeling put into his variety of songs he has sung in his short lifetime!!! 70 years later after first hearing him, I still listen to his beautiful singing. God gave him an unprecedented voice. Also, extreme talent.
Still pulls my heart strings. The world still looks away, and we're too blind to see after 50 years this song rings just as true today as it did then. Possibly more today.
Excellent analysis young man. Sad that the struggle continues and cycle repeats. Elvis was being so real and you can feel the seriousness of this song. Important to shed light then and now. Thanks for the fantastic reaction
Elvis tell's a story with some of his song's such as this one. Elvis grew up poor in the ghetto with his father in prison. Many of his boyhood friends were black in the ghetto. This song comes from his own personal experience and he want's people to know what it's really like. This man is very deep. We truly lost a legend when Elvis passed too early. Just like Michael Jackson. A big regret I have myself is not going to see Michael in concert. Elvis was a bit before my time. Great video man keep up the good work.
You got me! Had to subscribe. Your reaction to this song that is so close to my heart, for years, brought me to tears. ELVIS embodied gospel,rhythm and blues.
Ahhhhh… much much better. I give you kudos to opening up your mind and learning about the forefathers of rock ‘n’ roll. Without Elvis there is no Michael Jackson, Freddie Mercury, Prince, Rolling Stones, modern day pop or rap. Elvis was the first major superstar and teen idol who changed the music business. In fact he changed society in a lot of good ways. He was the straw that stirred the drink. Give yourself some time, you’ll need it. There’s a lot of history and a lot of music business firsts that happened. Elvis broke the racial barriers big-time. You’ll see that as you continue your journey if you just give it some time and some patience. Kudos again and I’m looking forward to your journey. Elvis was an integrator he was about bringing people together of all different walks of life. He was a huge supporter of the civil rights movement NAACP and MLK.
This is why he was considered "The King", people didn't understand how he grew up and lived... He grew up poor but loved. Most people don't look into his background they only see things after he was famous and wealthy. RIP Elvis, you will never be forgotten🙏🙏❤️❤️
And there’s no Elvis without the likes of Rosetta Tharpe, Chuck Barry, and more. All music feeds on what came before and grows within the culture and imagination of the musician. Elvis helped bring black composers of early rock/gospel to white audiences. It was a complicated relationship. Elvis was an amazing performer and incredible singer and was quick to give credit to those who came before him.
We all know how much he can dance and clown around and he's extremely good at it but that just makes it even more impressive how humble and restrained he is here out of respect for the subject matter. Kind of a risky song to do at that time but you can see he really means it. He was born into poverty and never forgot it.
Aw bless. You are such a young and enthusiastic young guy. Be glad you were born in this era and not back in the day. This song was all about the lyrics. The story. It woke people up to the plight of the poor forgotten kids in the ghettos. Black AND white! And help started pouring in to try to make their lives better. Elvis created a movement with this song that opened the eyes of the common man to the plight of others less fortunate.
A powerful performance, from a powerful performer! It’s a shame a lot of people off today have never heard many of these classic songs from the 50s 60s and 70s!
I remember hearing Elvis sing “If I Can Dream” and thinking as a young girl that he was an activist at heart. Then, upon hearing “In The Ghetto” feeling every emotion that we were being taught not to feel. Elvis didn’t give a rip! He knew how controversial the words were, and how singing this song in public could not only end his career but could prove to be detrimental to him in a physical way. Still, he knew the importance of standing up for what was, and still is, right, regardless of the outcome! Thank you for taking the time to listen to this incredible song and commenting.
simply ELVIS PRESLEY was born and grew up in the slums of Tupelo Mississippi, that is, he was humble and simple, he never forgot his roots and when he sang the song in the ghetto he lived it and communicated it to the public only those who have grown up in humility know what it is to live and grow and above all grew up with everyone in his childhood and youth greetings thanks for sharing and greetings to all ELVIS PRESLEY fans around the world from gdl jalisco mexico I am just a humble fan of ELVIS PRESLEY
thank you greetings simply ELVIS PRESLEY is one of the singers who grew up in the ghettos he never forgot his roots and the most admirable thing he lived with those who were his neighbors greetings
greetings thank you simply ELVIS PRESLEY is a unique singer and above all things his voice was unmatched thanks for sharing greetings to all ELVIS PRESLEY fans around the world
simply ELVIS PRESLEY never forgot his roots he did live and grew up as a child in a popular neighborhood he was humble and simple in his childhood and in his adolescence greetings to all ELVIS PRESLEY fans around the world from gdl jalisco mexico
He has done that song with his Daughter who recently passed away. The service was at Graceland and it was Full of Black &White and other Folks. Color wasn't an issue. Love was the Celebration of Life. That family endured so much bad luck over the years. They continue to carry on. I hope the children and family friends carry on RIP King. Princess.and all the Presley family.
Sitting on the back of my husband's motorcycle, flying through the hills of So Cal together about 10 years ago and this song came on - by the end I was sobbing. Stunned. I'd never heard it before that day. He had to pull over - I was just a mess. The dicotomy b/n the beauty of his voice and the message re: the terrible cycle. My God.
I was a teen when this came out......broke my heart. My dad was born in Chicago and swears if they hadn't left when he was 12 he never would have made it 13!
I love the fact that Elvis is still able to open up young minds after 60 years. I love how as the song gets deeper you listen more and more, and at the end of the song i can see your understanding 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😉🌏
You have no idea the courage it took for a white man to sing this song back in those times, Elvis was color blind unlike most of his contemporaries. The difference is how he lived his life, loved and cared for people of all creeds and colors.
@Lexi Mojito Another racist that thinks this song *must* be about a black kid because he is poor and in the ghetto. Let me guess: you "don't have a racist bone in your body", right? Great job, Lexi!
Elvis was born in a 2 room shack of a house his dad built with money he borrowed from his boss on January 8, 1935 in Tupelo, Mississippi. That's how dirt poor they were. He was one half of identical twins; the other boy - Jesse Garon - was stillborn. They were so poor, that Jesse Garon was buried in a shoebox in an unmarked grave. At Graceland they have a plaque with his name on it in his memory. Elvis always got along with the black community and learned a lot about music from his friends of color. Also, according to the one drop rule, Elvis would not be considered white, since he has Cherokee ancestors on both the Smith (his mother) and the Presley (his father) sides of the family. His paternal grandfather was not happy that his two sons, Elvis' father Vernon and his brother Vester, married two sisters, Gladys and Clettes who were known to have Cherokee blood in their family tree. But he was in denial about the Cherokee blood in his own family tree. As a child, Elvis already had many friends in the black community at the time his family was one of 4 "white" families that lived in the predominantly black neighborhood The Hill, just across from Shake Rag. His childhood friend Sam Bell said that some of the (black) kids in that neighborhood had lighter skin than Elvis. When Elvis was 13, the Presley's moved to Memphis. One of Elvis' bodyguards once said that he thought it was a miracle Elvis got into Humes High School in Memphis, because it was "lily white". Elvis wanted to be more open about his Native ancestry, but his manager "colonel" Tom Parker (real name Andreas van Kuijk) was against it because he was afraid it might cost Elvis fans (and himself money). They did have Elvis play characters in his movies though where he had Native American blood (Flaming Star, G.I. Blues, Stay Away Joe). Once Elvis had his own (apprentice) job learning to be an electrician, he saved up his money and bought his clothes in the same style that many of his friends of color wore. He was called a (forgive me, just stating facts here) "n-lover" and got beaten up several times too. Later, when he was an established star, he would not perform at places where the members of color of his back-up band/orchestra weren't allowed.
I'm 55 so didn't ever see him live. I love Elvis now was he best who ever lived and sang? Wouldn't necessarily say that, but I believe it was the whole package. People had never seen anyone dance and perform like this. Plus a good looking man who could sing too. Was a didn't time then not as many performers as there are now
I was a teenager when this came out, this is why he was the King. Look at his history, his thing was gospel music, blues and soul. Check out his song dedicated to MLK
❤❤❤ Glad you watched and listened to more of Elvis. He was definitely multifaceted. From gospel to blues and from country to rock n roll. He did it all and he did it well.
As a British person i was a child when this song came out and now as an adult it has such a strong meaning please when reacting to "old" songs listen to the whole song before reacting it will really be a bettee experience for you
There was actually 2 song's Elvis did that caused a riff within his ranks, in the ghetto and if I can dream, which was inspired by MLK' s dream speech. His daddy went to prison when he was a kid for writing bad checks and Elvis and his mom moved to the ghetto. From there he discovered the blues and gospel, and as they say, the rest was history. Elvis was quite the rebel back in his day going against the grain of thinking back in that era. Listen to if I can dream..... His manager was livid about him singing it on the Christmas special he was doing and his sponsors threatened to sue him.
It's incredible song,🤩 apparently Col Parker didn't want him to sing this ,but E did it ,cause he found it a powerful song and it still is 👍😎 Elvis is King ❤️
My first of your reaction vids. Subscribed!! That man could sing like no one else. His voice was smoooooth and real. Not sure if you listened to his return concert when he came back from the military. It's called Elvis '68 Comeback Special. That man puts on a performance that will have you clapping through the PC screen and back through the years. His voice was God-given Pure Talent. He and the Jordanires sang Gospel. He sang Rock 'n Roll, Gospel and Soul. He was one of the FEW who could cross over into Soul at the time. He was a multi-talented Phenom. No PC adjusting or auto-fixing when live. He is exactly what you see and hear. (He died in Aug 1977, in case you were unaware.) Oh and (based on your comments) he wasn't stupid; He had Black female backup singers, because THEY CAN SING!!
Elvis was actually brought up in the ghetto, but fortunately managed to get out of it. Yes he was an absolutely fantastic singer/guitarist/songwriter. All of his songs are superb. I was born in 1960 so managed to get his vinyl records later on, just brilliant!!! 💝💝
Elvis grew up in poverty in Tupelo , in a mainly black area and attended gospel church services. His love of Gospel led to a hugely successful Gospel album. His great , great Grandma on his Mom Gladys's side was Cherokee American Indian. There are b/w pics of her online. His father had German & Irish ancestry.
Before moving to Memphis, Elvis was born in Tupelo Mississippi, in a small home with gunny sacks on the windows. He would listen to the older blacks in the neighborhood playing the blues, it impacted him deeply. He admired their talent ans loved their music.
I love your reactions as you discover Elvis, truly the greatest entertainer of all times, his music touched all ages and now a new generation of kids are coming along and discovering him all over again. TCB my friend.
I truly appreciate your reaction to Elvis. Have you seen the Elvis movie? It goes into his roots and explains the way he saw things and why. I grew up an Elvis fan even though he passed when I was a young kid. Love that younger people are learning to appreciate him
This song by Elvis influenced me so much as a young white girl back in the day. It opened my eyes to the world around me and to the suffering that people less fortunate than I were subjected to. Elvis was not celebrated for doing this song at the time. Our country was barely coming out segregation. Elvis Presley was not just a talented musician. He gave the world so much more than that.
@@johnstoddard7324 This is immaterial. Elvis popularized it. I've never heard Mac Davis sing this song, but Elvis' version was on the radio continually the year it came out. He took a tremendous risk to record this song and as I said in my initial comment, it influenced me tremendously as a young person.
Yes. Mac Davis wrote it. It was offered to many singers but no-one wanted to do it afraid of controversy. His manager even told him to turn it down but he refused. He said it was an important song with a message that needed to be heard
I'm old enough to be your grandfather, so I remember this in the day. You want to know how much guts it took for him to sing this in public? It was only two years earlier that the Supreme Court ordered lower courts to use titles when talking to Black men, like Mr. or Dr., instead of "boy". Elvis decided he was rich enough to not worry about losing fans or not being played on southern radio stations. Considering when and where he grew up, this was a big thing, and people understood.
Nothing to do with being rich. Elvis never had a racist bone in his body.
When a town said that hnis black backing singers could not ride with him - he said ok cancel the ride. Please check befoe yhou make such statements.
@@katherinearter6843 thank you! Most people then as now we’re not racist but there is always those that want to play the race card. I remember when I was young we had a wonderful black couple come and do Bible study with my foster family. They were a wonderful couple and I didn’t realize they were any different than the Chinese couple that lived down the street. This young man proves by feeling he had to point out the background singers race, he had several black background singers
He was told by several people including the colonel not to do the song. But he did because he felt this was a song that needed to be done at that time.
Stop talking please 🙏
@@katherinearter6843 yep...this happened when he was fixing to play at the Houston Astrodome for the Livestock Show and Rodeo. He not only told them that he would not be playing if his backup singers didn't have a ride out to the stage, he also made them drive the ladies around the Astrodome, and a white person had to be their driver. It was awesome!
Elvis was so beloved by the black community and black entertainers. He grew up in the ghetto too. He was so poor. Never forget where he came from. Not a racist bone in his body. Thanks for sharing. Katie 😊🌸.
There wasn't many white artists who would be singing with an all black choir back in the day as well
Elvis grew up in ghetto....
Elvis and his parents attended an all black church.
He sings some amazing hymns!!
Absolutely true. Check more of Elvis out.
One of his backup singers was Whitney Houston's mother. Blacks were not supposed to be on stage back then in the state of Texas. Elvis told them that if the blacks couldn't appear on stage, then he wouldn't either.
And 50 years later the song is still relevant. I like that color is never mentioned in the song - it speaks to all of us. Let’s not have another 50 years go by.
Well said!
One of those Queens is Whitney Houston’s Mama Sissy Houston. Elvis touched a lot of hearts and minds with this beautiful song written by Mac Davis. May they both RIP.
I was around when this song was released in 1969 and performed here in 1970 and trust me it took a lot of courage to do a song like this then, especially for a white man so kudos to the Elvis who is, was, and will always be the GOAT!
Credit to Mac Davis, a singer and songwriter who wrote this song, but could not sing it. Elvis had the standing to take up the challenge of the time and sing this song. But let's not forget Mac.
Wanna REALLY hear a controversial song? Janice Ian singing "Society's Child". Painful even today.
The GOAT? Nah, Kobe is a GOAT, Mohammed Ali is a GOAT. Elvis is THE KING. 🤩
@Jim R
Very well said, Jim!
@@lisal6121
Considering that Elvis knocked Ali to the ground, it makes him the over goat. :)))
@@lechat8533 the Others are great. But the king is the supreme.
According to legend, Elvis was booked to perform at an MLB stadium in Houston when he was told that his backup singers would have to use a back entrance to the facility. He basically told the promoters, "If they CAN'T come in the front, I WON'T come in." Everyone used the front door.
How Beautiful, indeed!!!!!!!!! 🙏🙏🙏🙏
And that was only 1 of the times Elvis held his ground against the Colonel.
That's true
That’s fact. That’s why he is a legend still.
Yes this was very true,Elvis wouldn't hear of it and stuck to his guns.
They told Elvis Presley his back up band couldn't come and he said these are my People! They don't come I don't come. Amazing
You have no idea how much love he had in his heart for everyone around him.
No auto tune. Just pure talent!
Dude needs to LISTEN !!! IMMERSE !!! Elvis sang music of multiple genres. (gospel, Rock and roll, R & B... ) Also, a bit of trivia, the song was written by Mac Davis an old time Country singer from that era...
Also NEVER lipsynced , obvious because every time he sang a song, there were subtle variations that his life long fans will recognize from "this album" or "this movie" even from this "date" concert in "this" city... He was That memorable and spectacular.
Yes Elvis had pure TALENT!!!
Yes he did
@@michellebeauchamp1044 OH definitely! Once in concert when singing 'Suspicious Minds', he was in his pose, legs apart, down low to the stage and sang "I hope this suit don't tear up, baby'. Another time, same song, he sang "You know I'd never lie to you, no not much...".
Elvis grew up poor and was inspired by the music at the black churches. I’m glad he would go back to his roots and bring in the Queens. You’re right about the the pressure of performing live music and the energy you can pick up from the crowd. This song is timeless. It still lives in the streets of Chicago today. God bless you. You’re doing a great job on your channel-opening people’s eyes... and ears.
Worth watching Elvis and black community part 1 and 2 Elvis only ever showed love.
You're right, but they're not only in Chicago, they're all over the world today. And it still rings true. The cycle keeps repeating itself and one parent households. And they do, they still turn their heads and look the other way. While we have children and people out here just killing each other. If they only knew who exactly is behind all this.
I'm soon to be 73. My first time hearing this song, really like it.
His very original roots lie in gospel music.
Elvis grew up in the deep south... he would sneak off to attend the black churches and watch and learn. He drew alot of his inspiration from these experiences. His family moved to Memphis TN the place he called home. His manager restricted Elvis from speaking out but Elvis ALWAYS WANTED TO PAY TRIBUTE to the black culture that he was inspired by. He was a humble and amazing man.
Check out his movie King Creole. That's the one movie HE wanted to make HIS way
It's nice to see young people getting into Elvis. I'm only 21 and I looovvee Elvis. It's nice there are some people who do still. Don't let his memory die.
Elvis wasn't racist. He did grow up poor he loved everyone. This is an enspiring song. This is still going on today. Lord help our country.
I’ve said this before, there isn’t a more heartbreaking line in any song than “and his momma cries”. It just tears your heart out 😢.
Elvis added that line, to the lyrics of the song by the writer Mac Davis. Mac liked what Elvis added with that line, and they kept it in the song. It really brings the story full circle and makes it hit home.
AMEN ❤ love Mac but ELVIS SHOULD OF got more.. NO one else then would do this song.. Matter of fact no one could do it the MAN E.P.❤
This song had great meaning to Elvis. He grew up very poor, among many black folks. His musical influence began in a black church as a young boy. He got his start with many legends down on Beal Street in Memphis. He understood this life, he lived it. They were HIS people. I'm glad you covered this one. There has been an outcry for change from many people (white and black) since waaaaaaay back. It still goes on today. I can't imagine anyone not caring about what happens to these kids just trying to survive. I live close to Little Rock, Arkansas and the gangs and gun violence is so bad, seems someone is shot and killed everyday. It's heartbreaking. Elvis wanted change way back in his day. He was very generous when he saw someone in need. He had a massive drug addiction but he had a beautiful heart. ❤️
You hit everything right on, the drug problems he had came from to many doctors giving one drug for this problem and other for another reason. In the end, he was taking drugs to sleep and drugs to stay awake. Let alone the pain pills.
@@terrikelley5333 Well, Elvis probably had IBS, which is horrible to have. It sucks even today with today's doctors to have it. Him and Kurt Cobain were trying to numb the pain. Kurt had a name for what he had by the 1990s, but the doctors shrugged and had no solutions. Same mostly today, too. Also, a lot of people with IBS have sleep problems, histamine issues, can have high homocysteine which can lead to heart-attacks if not properly checked with the right vitamins, supplements.
Buuuut he was also racist. Hanging out with us, copying us doesn’t mean that he felt we were equal.
@@germyw He also insisted that his backup singers and any other black people with him were treated with the same hospitality that he was, when he toured. There was still a lot of segregation going on back at that time, but he wasn't having that.
@@germyw Looks like you don't know Elvis
The man was basically a combination of perfect entertainer and preacher! He told the truth but in a way that made people that didn’t even want to listen HAVE to listen! Powerful! I heard this as a very young child like 50 years ago and it made its mark on my heart way back then! My mama played it on repeat. Good job Elvis! RIP
Elvis recorded this in 1969. Fabulous reaction. I get emotional watching you youngsters discover our generation's beautiful music and ❤️ it
I was 11 in 1969...we had some of the best didn't we.
I came into this world in 1968 and Elvis was all I new. Love this man.
That was a very controversial song then. Certain people around Elvis told him NOT to to it. You don't tell Elvis what to sing and what not to sing. One of my favorites. I saw him in Vegas in 1972 and he is the man.
I wasn’t really into Elvis like most people, so this is the first time I ever really listened to the words to this song. It made me tear up. Thank you for the fresh outlook. And you are just adorable, by the way. I’m old enough to be your grandma.
Elvis grew up in the getto of poverty . He was never a racist . He was heavily influenced by black music 🎶 Bravo , he told it straight up . Mac Davis wrote this and many more masterpieces ♥️😢😭💎
Those wonderful backup singers are The Sweet Inspirations. They were with Elvis from his first Vegas show in 1969 till his death in 1977. Besides the Vegas residencies they toured with him, every tour for those 8 years.
I saw Elvis in concert twice & his rapport with those ladies was a great part of the show. He had a great sense of humor & loved to joke around with them. You should react to "Suspicious Minds" live in Las Vegas to see a little example of that.
Each one of those ladies has said, in many interviews over the years, that they loved Elvis & he loved them too. There was a lot of mutual respect between them.
Estelle Brown said that when he hired them, at the first rehearsal she called him "Boss" & he said "No, I'm not your boss. I'm your brother". That says a lot about Elvis's character. Everyone talks about how humble & kind he was even though he was the biggest superstar in the world.💙
One of The Sweet Inspirations was Whitney Houston's mom, Cissy.
The fact that he was fixen to turn down a concert because they wouldn't let those beautiful woman in...told them if they don't get to come in and sing then I don't.
Whitney Houstan's mom was one of his singers
@@punkydoodle4774 Cissy was a Sweet Inspirations singer, but she left the group and the remaining members sang backup for Elvis.
I'm 56 and I've listen to this song over and over when I was a little girl at my Grandma's house and I would cry to it.And right now I'm crying again 😥 God Bless America Again God bless our Children
IKR Sherry. Song made me cry when I was 10 and I just got teared up again.
I still cry hearing this song 😢
Me too
Elvis Presley grew up with black friends as a child and his earlier influence was Gospel music, Spirituals.and blues. I have always loved his music.
Elvis is, in my opinion, the greatest artist of ALL time! Effortless natural, raw talent. Such a smooth (sexy) voice. As you said, they didn’t alter his voice (because no need to) and his backup singers were always the best too. His voice in any song always gives me chills. Just such an extraordinary, authentic talent. There will never be anyone who comes close to his ability to sing any style of music and do it like he did. He did it all and did it perfectly. So sad that he died so young. I am a huge Elvis fan, even though he was 30 years older than me. He could sing, dance, act and looked sexy doing it all! 🔥
Yes he did
If we could bring just one back -it would have to be Elvis
Amazing Baritone...Tremendous range high and low...Never has been another voice like Elvis...He had a gift...
Or anyone that looks that good doing it! 🥰
There was another voice like his- his father. Very close.
I'm glad that you can appreciate this song, but listen to it without stopping it or talking thru it. Powerful.
Listen. No words. Just soak it in
@@normadrumm4338 You can’t. Copyright infringement will stop him from being able to make money off of his videos. You have to stop it every once in a while, in order to avoid that.
Some songs just need to be listened too .
But this is this young man’s video. It’s about him and his impressions of Elvis and his songs. If you want to listen to the song straight thru go to an Elvis channel. I love Elvis. But I love that this young man is digging deep in to his music. I appreciate that a lot.
I really love how so many young people are finally getting to Elvis. I remember watching one of these and the young man said that he grew hearing that Elvis was a big joke. He never new how much of an influence and impact that Elvis made on the black community. He didn’t live in a world of colors. He lived in a world where people were people. And he cared deeply for them all regardless of their race. Thank you for listening really listening to Elvis. Because he also grew up in the ghetto and he never forgot where he came from and he was never ashamed of where he came from.
I'm so glad you listened to this one, Elvis understood what it was like to grow up poor, it was his life as well. When he was very young his father went to jail for forging a check at a grocery store, just trying to buy food for his family...This is one of the reasons Elvis had such a humble and giving heart right from the start and right up to the end. In 1974 he bought his cook her own home, just outright gave it to her. Another story is about him being at a car dealership buying a Cadillac and there was a woman just looking at the new cars and he asked her if she liked them. She of course said yes but that she could never afford one.. so he bought her one right then and there. Yes he was a gorgeous looking man, had the sex appeal of 10 men combined, lol. He had an amazing voice, a God given talent. BUT its his heart that really reached out and touched you. They'll never be another like him..
Elvis grew up very poor and lived in the ghetto he lived in a 2 room shotvgun shack house that his dad built there were days when his family didn't even have running water he lived very very poor. But he never forgot where he came from and had such a generous heart and helped alot of people , even people he didn't even know ... if you haven't done a reaction to the documtary of elvis and the black community part 1 and part 2 I suggest you check it out. you'll get a better understanding what elvis was up against back in the day....
One of the background singers was Whitney Houston mom
Many poor white lived in the ghetto.
I cannot remember the exact people, but Elvis broke barriers. Men like Chuck Berry, Little Richard, men that were famous at that time, would stop by Graceland and jam with him!
My mom loved Elvis & even got a kiss on the cheek from him.
A very humble man he was a gentleman always said yes sir or mam his mother Gladys was so proud of him he was never the same when his mama passed away 😢 I still cry listening to him ❤️
This song still makes me cry all these years later because sadly nothing has changed. We have learned NOTHING!!
To me, the main message of this song is for men (and women) to be responsible for their seed and stop spreading it around (you know, consider instead the marriage covenant). But THAT has gotten worse (thank you Kardashians). Poverty has and always will exist; but we now have birth control which should improve our lives but has not. Why? Because people insist on doing what feels good instead of what is responsible.
Amen🙏
Kentucky Rain is another favorite of mine, check it out@Mary Smith
I totally agree. We seem to be regressing.
@@jessedylan6162 will do thanks. ❤️🌹
Elvis always had his backup singers of color. He was scheduled to perform once in a southern city and was told he could not have his black backup singers. He told them if they could not be on stage with him then he would not perform. The show went on with him and his backup singers. One of them was Whitney Houston's mom.
The more you listen to Elvis the more you will like him. Elvis sang this in 1969. I listen to Elvis every day. I am so happy to see the younger generation listening to this great music by the King of rock and roll. Elvis is the best !
You are getting there. Thanks for giving Elvis a second look. Knowing who the man Elvis was will help you appreciate who he is, what he did and how he changed the culture. Before you get into Jailhouse Rock, Suspicious Minds, Hound Dog and Polk Salad Annie take a minute to find out his roots and who influenced him. He was an entertainer that who was willing to put it all on the line for what he believed in and didn’t back down. “If I Can Dream” is a great song to do next and learn the history behind the song. It would be meaningful to cut that song today, but think how much more meaningful it was for Elvis to sing it back in 1968 even against the advise of others around him. Elvis changed the culture of music for everyone of all races and backgrounds, and we are all better off for it. Thanks for being willing to go down the Elvis rabbit hole. It will surely make you a more rounded music guy in the end.
This was actually written by a friend of his Mac Davis. Not to take away from Elvis here but to just give credit to the guy who wrote it.
Davis wrote it because as a kid who had a black friend growing up he didn't understand why his friend couldn't come visit him in his neighborhood or he couldn't go there.
I actually prefer Davis' version. There is so much emotion in his voice.
@@celticbelle4004 mac davis was a great song writer and entertainer.
Elvis bought it from Davis because of his background. So they both had reasons for it. And I believe most people knew where it come from.
And no one else would touch the song because of the content. Elvis had no reservations about singing/recording it.
@@lisamitchell7317 this song was pitched first to Sammy Davis jr. Who rejected it and suggested it be offered to Elvis Presley secondary to his childhood poverty.
I enjoyed your reaction. Elvis was awesome. Thank you.
Listen to the cut that was on the record.its really got soul.The great Elvis❤️💯
Great reaction. Elvis was very much invested in civil rights. He grew up on the proverbial "wrong side of the tracks". His first introduction to. Music was from that setting. I HIGHLY recommend IF I CAN DREAM. It's an amazing and moving song. Once again he was told not to perform this song, but he did it against the wishes of everyone in remembrance of his recently lost friend MK. Jr. Elvis is the original mega star. I was 9 when he died and was obsessed with him before he passed away because he could bring everything to the table. Keep in listening going man! I love that you're enjoying him!
The Sweet Inspirations were definitely Queens! Cissy Houston, Whitney's mother, was in the group as well. Elvis's band, the TCB Band, was some of the best musicians of the day. The song was written by Mac Davis, a Hall of Fame songwriter and recording artist who was popular in the 70s. Elvis was the real deal sweetie, I was a kid when this came out and since both my parents were Elvis fans, I became one too. And 56 years along, I still am.
I thought Cissy was Whitney's Auntie?!?!
@@johnbjorkiii5190 nope, Cissy was Whitney's mom. Dionne Warwick was her cousin.
@@johnbjorkiii5190 Houston is the mother of singer and actress Whitney Houston, the aunt of singers Dionne Warwick and Dee Dee Warwick, and a cousin of opera singer Leontyne Price.
My Mom, And Sisters and I Loved Elvis when I was a Child! He was Our Love! When he Passed, We All Were Devestated! I'm now 59 yrs old. I Still Love Elvis! I Loved how he sang and All his Songs and All his Band too!!!!
There is not another person in this world, I doubt there ever will be a person with his beautiful voice, range and feeling put into his variety of songs he has sung in his short lifetime!!! 70 years later after first hearing him, I still listen to his beautiful singing. God gave him an unprecedented voice. Also, extreme talent.
Well said, hallelujah!
Elvis adored HIS MOMMA!!! She was his FAVORITE THING!!! She passed early....he was young....missed her badly!
Loved your reaction to this LEGENDARY tune, Pzo. Great to see a young person vibing to the epic music I grew up with. Elvis was King. ❤❤❤
Still pulls my heart strings. The world still looks away, and we're too blind to see after 50 years this song rings just as true today as it did then. Possibly more today.
Excellent analysis young man. Sad that the struggle continues and cycle repeats. Elvis was being so real and you can feel the seriousness of this song. Important to shed light then and now. Thanks for the fantastic reaction
If you are serious about learning about the old music, you have a looooong and happy journey ahead of you.
Very true.
I love your reaction. Elvis music and songs told lots of stories. This is always my 1 favorite.
Elvis was and still is the king! In the ghetto is one of my favorite. Listen to the one with Elvis and his daughter Lisa Marie did.
Songs back in the day was not auto tuned. They relied on their voice. This was true singing.
Had you never wondered why he is still considered…”THE KING”?
Elvis tell's a story with some of his song's such as this one. Elvis grew up poor in the ghetto with his father in prison. Many of his boyhood friends were black in the ghetto. This song comes from his own personal experience and he want's people to know what it's really like. This man is very deep. We truly lost a legend when Elvis passed too early. Just like Michael Jackson. A big regret I have myself is not going to see Michael in concert. Elvis was a bit before my time. Great video man keep up the good work.
You got me! Had to subscribe. Your reaction to this song that is so close to my heart, for years, brought me to tears. ELVIS embodied gospel,rhythm and blues.
Apart from his incredible voice, looks and charisma Elvis was the most beautiful soul. 💕💕💕
Ahhhhh… much much better. I give you kudos to opening up your mind and learning about the forefathers of rock ‘n’ roll. Without Elvis there is no Michael Jackson, Freddie Mercury, Prince, Rolling Stones, modern day pop or rap.
Elvis was the first major superstar and teen idol who changed the music business. In fact he changed society in a lot of good ways. He was the straw that stirred the drink.
Give yourself some time, you’ll need it. There’s a lot of history and a lot of music business firsts that happened. Elvis broke the racial barriers big-time. You’ll see that as you continue your journey if you just give it some time and some patience. Kudos again and I’m looking forward to your journey. Elvis was an integrator he was about bringing people together of all different walks of life. He was a huge supporter of the civil rights movement NAACP and MLK.
When I was growing up listening to and LOVING ELVIS I Did not understand all the hate and complaining about Elvis from the news, This is the reason
This is why he was considered "The King", people didn't understand how he grew up and lived... He grew up poor but loved. Most people don't look into his background they only see things after he was famous and wealthy. RIP Elvis, you will never be forgotten🙏🙏❤️❤️
And there’s no Elvis without the likes of Rosetta Tharpe, Chuck Barry, and more. All music feeds on what came before and grows within the culture and imagination of the musician.
Elvis helped bring black composers of early rock/gospel to white audiences. It was a complicated relationship. Elvis was an amazing performer and incredible singer and was quick to give credit to those who came before him.
Loved your channel! Loved your commentary! Loved your energy! Elvis was the man!!
It was written by Mac Davis around 1969. Mac is a C&W singer/songwriter. I love this man's voice.
We all know how much he can dance and clown around and he's extremely good at it but that just makes it even more impressive how humble and restrained he is here out of respect for the subject matter. Kind of a risky song to do at that time but you can see he really means it. He was born into poverty and never forgot it.
Loved your reaction to In The Ghetto! Always nice to see young people discovering the music of Elvis.😀
Aw bless. You are such a young and enthusiastic young guy. Be glad you were born in this era and not back in the day. This song was all about the lyrics. The story. It woke people up to the plight of the poor forgotten kids in the ghettos. Black AND white! And help started pouring in to try to make their lives better. Elvis created a movement with this song that opened the eyes of the common man to the plight of others less fortunate.
A powerful performance, from a powerful performer! It’s a shame a lot of people off today have never heard many of these classic songs from the 50s 60s and 70s!
Music has magic because when listened to the way it's supposed to be listened to, it broadens all horizons and crosses all cultures
I remember hearing Elvis sing “If I Can Dream” and thinking as a young girl that he was an activist at heart. Then, upon hearing “In The Ghetto” feeling every emotion that we were being taught not to feel. Elvis didn’t give a rip! He knew how controversial the words were, and how singing this song in public could not only end his career but could prove to be detrimental to him in a physical way. Still, he knew the importance of standing up for what was, and still is, right, regardless of the outcome! Thank you for taking the time to listen to this incredible song and commenting.
My favorite song of his.... Powerful.
Every single time I listen to this song and it’s a lot, I cry! Your a sweet and cool guy!
simply ELVIS PRESLEY was born and grew up in the slums of Tupelo Mississippi, that is, he was humble and simple, he never forgot his roots and when he sang the song in the ghetto he lived it and communicated it to the public only those who have grown up in humility know what it is to live and grow and above all grew up with everyone in his childhood and youth greetings thanks for sharing and greetings to all ELVIS PRESLEY fans around the world from gdl jalisco mexico I am just a humble fan of ELVIS PRESLEY
thank you greetings simply ELVIS PRESLEY is one of the singers who grew up in the ghettos he never forgot his roots and the most admirable thing he lived with those who were his neighbors greetings
greetings thank you
greetings thank you simply ELVIS PRESLEY is a unique singer and above all things his voice was unmatched thanks for sharing greetings to all ELVIS PRESLEY fans around the world
simply ELVIS PRESLEY never forgot his roots he did live and grew up as a child in a popular neighborhood he was humble and simple in his childhood and in his adolescence greetings to all ELVIS PRESLEY fans around the world from gdl jalisco mexico
He has done that song with his Daughter who recently passed away. The service was at Graceland and it was Full of Black &White and other Folks. Color wasn't an issue. Love was the Celebration of Life. That family endured so much bad luck over the years. They continue to carry on. I hope the children and family friends carry on
RIP King. Princess.and all the Presley family.
Sitting on the back of my husband's motorcycle, flying through the hills of So Cal together about 10 years ago and this song came on - by the end I was sobbing. Stunned. I'd never heard it before that day. He had to pull over - I was just a mess. The dicotomy b/n the beauty of his voice and the message re: the terrible cycle. My God.
Elvis loved all his back up singers. He took care of all his music family. He saw no color. Love your channel
I was a teen when this came out......broke my heart. My dad was born in Chicago and swears if they hadn't left when he was 12 he never would have made it 13!
I love the fact that Elvis is still able to open up young minds after 60 years. I love how as the song gets deeper you listen more and more, and at the end of the song i can see your understanding 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😉🌏
I agree.
Dude. You are such a racist with all your black this and that... Just be real and see that we all deserve real respect and not fear of skin color.
They always learn how to play music in Tupelo Mississippi Elvis was born and raised and it got all his self
I love to see you young folks getting into Elvis. He truly was one of a kind.
You have no idea the courage it took for a white man to sing this song back in those times, Elvis was color blind unlike most of his contemporaries. The difference is how he lived his life, loved and cared for people of all creeds and colors.
Another fact, is that it was written by the white man Mac Davis.
Amen!
@Lexi Mojito Another racist that thinks this song *must* be about a black kid because he is poor and in the ghetto. Let me guess: you "don't have a racist bone in your body", right? Great job, Lexi!
Amen✨🎀🪶
Amen!
Elvis was born in a 2 room shack of a house his dad built with money he borrowed from his boss on January 8, 1935 in Tupelo, Mississippi. That's how dirt poor they were. He was one half of identical twins; the other boy - Jesse Garon - was stillborn. They were so poor, that Jesse Garon was buried in a shoebox in an unmarked grave. At Graceland they have a plaque with his name on it in his memory. Elvis always got along with the black community and learned a lot about music from his friends of color. Also, according to the one drop rule, Elvis would not be considered white, since he has Cherokee ancestors on both the Smith (his mother) and the Presley (his father) sides of the family. His paternal grandfather was not happy that his two sons, Elvis' father Vernon and his brother Vester, married two sisters, Gladys and Clettes who were known to have Cherokee blood in their family tree. But he was in denial about the Cherokee blood in his own family tree. As a child, Elvis already had many friends in the black community at the time his family was one of 4 "white" families that lived in the predominantly black neighborhood The Hill, just across from Shake Rag. His childhood friend Sam Bell said that some of the (black) kids in that neighborhood had lighter skin than Elvis. When Elvis was 13, the Presley's moved to Memphis. One of Elvis' bodyguards once said that he thought it was a miracle Elvis got into Humes High School in Memphis, because it was "lily white". Elvis wanted to be more open about his Native ancestry, but his manager "colonel" Tom Parker (real name Andreas van Kuijk) was against it because he was afraid it might cost Elvis fans (and himself money). They did have Elvis play characters in his movies though where he had Native American blood (Flaming Star, G.I. Blues, Stay Away Joe). Once Elvis had his own (apprentice) job learning to be an electrician, he saved up his money and bought his clothes in the same style that many of his friends of color wore. He was called a (forgive me, just stating facts here) "n-lover" and got beaten up several times too. Later, when he was an established star, he would not perform at places where the members of color of his back-up band/orchestra weren't allowed.
Thank you thank you for bringing his music back it as so much meaning Elvis was deep
What a fantastic reaction! Loved your commentary throughout. This is such an emotional song. Elvis was an ally, for sure.
Elvis and The Black Community would be a great video to checkout:)
why?
Why does shit zappa looked like a bum at the end? Hahahaha 🤣
You realize that it’s now up to you to spread this talent to everyone you know. Every friend, sibling, cousin needs to learn this music. ❤
I'm 55 so didn't ever see him live. I love Elvis now was he best who ever lived and sang? Wouldn't necessarily say that, but I believe it was the whole package. People had never seen anyone dance and perform like this. Plus a good looking man who could sing too. Was a didn't time then not as many performers as there are now
Very cool you're listening and learning what you like for yourself.
I was a teenager when this came out, this is why he was the King. Look at his history, his thing was gospel music, blues and soul. Check out his song dedicated to MLK
❤❤❤ Glad you watched and listened to more of Elvis. He was definitely multifaceted. From gospel to blues and from country to rock n roll. He did it all and he did it well.
As a British person i was a child when this song came out and now as an adult it has such a strong meaning please when reacting to "old" songs listen to the whole song before reacting it will really be a bettee experience for you
This is one of my favorite songs … listen to his music ., CIA ,,, Elvis had that SOUL ❤🙏🏼❤
You can love Michael and Elvis!! Both are amazing gifts to us all!!
Yes indeed
There was actually 2 song's Elvis did that caused a riff within his ranks, in the ghetto and if I can dream, which was inspired by MLK' s dream speech. His daddy went to prison when he was a kid for writing bad checks and Elvis and his mom moved to the ghetto. From there he discovered the blues and gospel, and as they say, the rest was history. Elvis was quite the rebel back in his day going against the grain of thinking back in that era. Listen to if I can dream..... His manager was livid about him singing it on the Christmas special he was doing and his sponsors threatened to sue him.
This song has made me cry since I was a young teen , many years ago. Elvis understood as so many did not back then.
I'm 65 & this was one of the most real & sad songs when this came out. I loved it, still do.
It's incredible song,🤩 apparently Col Parker didn't want him to sing this ,but E did it ,cause he found it a powerful song and it still is 👍😎 Elvis is King ❤️
Parker didn't want him doing a lot of things. He had Elvis in a bad situation.
You cannot compare Michael, Jackson, and Elvis. They were both from different errors. Elvis Presley inspired Michael Jackson.
ERAS.
Eras. Elvis had a rich voice with much more vibratto and depth to it . Jackson's voice IA great, but did not have rhe richness to it.
Eras means a length of time. Errors means mistakes. No way at all are these two words interchangeable.
@@silverforest4682 Michael Jackson was a talented boy, while Elvis was a supernaturally talented MAN. And what a beautiful man he was. Sigh.
@@lisal6121 Probably autocorrect...
My first of your reaction vids. Subscribed!! That man could sing like no one else. His voice was smoooooth and real. Not sure if you listened to his return concert when he came back from the military. It's called Elvis '68 Comeback Special. That man puts on a performance that will have you clapping through the PC screen and back through the years. His voice was God-given Pure Talent. He and the Jordanires sang Gospel. He sang Rock 'n Roll, Gospel and Soul. He was one of the FEW who could cross over into Soul at the time. He was a multi-talented Phenom. No PC adjusting or auto-fixing when live. He is exactly what you see and hear. (He died in Aug 1977, in case you were unaware.)
Oh and (based on your comments) he wasn't stupid; He had Black female backup singers, because THEY CAN SING!!
Elvis was actually brought up in the ghetto, but fortunately managed to get out of it. Yes he was an absolutely fantastic singer/guitarist/songwriter. All of his songs are superb. I was born in 1960 so managed to get his vinyl records later on, just brilliant!!! 💝💝
Elvis grew up in poverty in Tupelo , in a mainly black area and attended gospel church services. His love of Gospel led to a hugely successful Gospel album. His great , great Grandma on his Mom Gladys's side was Cherokee American Indian. There are b/w pics of her online. His father had German & Irish ancestry.
Elvis was ahead of his time his music and vocals had power ❤❤❤
Before moving to Memphis, Elvis was born in Tupelo Mississippi, in a small home with gunny sacks on the windows.
He would listen to the older blacks in the neighborhood playing the blues, it impacted him deeply. He admired their talent ans loved their music.
I love your reactions as you discover Elvis, truly the greatest entertainer of all times, his music touched all ages and now a new generation of kids are coming along and discovering him all over again. TCB my friend.
A major encyclopedia said this, Elvis Presley 1935-1977 ; The most important and adulated performer of the rock era.
i'm so happy that the younger generation is listening to this music. Keep on listening.
I truly appreciate your reaction to Elvis. Have you seen the Elvis movie? It goes into his roots and explains the way he saw things and why. I grew up an Elvis fan even though he passed when I was a young kid. Love that younger people are learning to appreciate him
Elvis Presley was raised on Black Gospel music and when he was a little boy he use to go to a Black Church yep awesome
he is the King of Rock for a reason…respect! thanks for doing this 💕
This song by Elvis influenced me so much as a young white girl back in the day. It opened my eyes to the world around me and to the suffering that people less fortunate than I were subjected to. Elvis was not celebrated for doing this song at the time. Our country was barely coming out segregation. Elvis Presley was not just a talented musician. He gave the world so much more than that.
Same
this was not his song it was mac Davis
@@johnstoddard7324 I know. I had the Mac davis album with this song on it.
@@johnstoddard7324 This is immaterial. Elvis popularized it. I've never heard Mac Davis sing this song, but Elvis' version was on the radio continually the year it came out. He took a tremendous risk to record this song and as I said in my initial comment, it influenced me tremendously as a young person.
Yes. Mac Davis wrote it. It was offered to many singers but no-one wanted to do it afraid of controversy. His manager even told him to turn it down but he refused. He said it was an important song with a message that needed to be heard
I enjoyed watching new generations enjoy Elvis. You did a great job. Loved watching your true reaction.