Ghetto Ghetto (feat. Baby Kaely)

In 'Ghetto Ghetto (feat. Baby Kaely),' will.i.am paints a vivid and heart-wrenching picture of life in impoverished urban areas. The song opens with a prayer, setting a tone of desperation and hope. The repeated use of the word 'ghetto' underscores the harsh realities faced by those living in these environments. The lyrics delve into the systemic issues that plague these communities, such as lack of education, drug addiction, and absent parental figures. These problems create a vicious cycle, leaving children to fend for themselves and often leading them down paths of crime and despair.

The song's chorus, 'It is easy as 1, 2, 3 / I wanna be what’s on TV,' highlights the allure of media and fame as an escape from the harsh realities of ghetto life. This desire to emulate celebrities is not just a superficial wish but a desperate grasp for a better life. The lyrics suggest that the lack of opportunities and resources in the ghetto leaves its residents with little choice but to dream of an escape through fame or fortune. This sentiment is echoed in the verses, where will.i.am and Baby Kaely discuss the dreams of young boys and girls who aspire to be athletes, rappers, or models, as these seem like the only viable paths out of their dire circumstances.

The song also serves as a critique of societal and governmental neglect. The lyrics point out that politicians often make empty promises to fix these issues but fail to deliver real change. This neglect perpetuates the cycle of poverty and crime, leaving the ghetto in a state of perpetual emergency. The song calls for a more proactive approach to solving these problems, suggesting that education and positive role models could provide a way out. By planting 'a little seed to prevent the mobbing,' will.i.am advocates for long-term solutions that address the root causes of these issues rather than just their symptoms.