The Ghetto
Hathaway Donny Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

Ooh, mm
Mm-hmm
Yes, this is the ghetto, sure 'nuff now

Oh, oh-oh, oh
Aw, yeah

Don't you know that's all right?

Yeah
Yeah

Aw (hey), yeah

The ghetto, hmm
The ghetto
The ghetto
The ghetto
Sure 'nuff

The ghetto
The ghetto
The ghetto
The ghetto
Oh, yeah

The ghetto, the ghetto
The ghetto, the ghetto, the ghetto
The ghetto, the ghetto, the ghetto
The ghetto, the ghetto, the ghetto
Yeah, yeah

The ghetto
The ghetto
You don't know what I'm talking about, yeah
The ghetto

The ghetto
My Lord
The ghetto
The ghetto

The ghetto
Whoa
The ghetto
The ghetto

The ghetto
The ghetto
The ghetto

I

I think y'all should listen to the brother
Wait a minute

No you ain't doin' what you're suppose to
You doin' what you wanna do (well)
But you know you are

Hey-ho
Living in my
The ghetto
The ghetto
The ghetto
The ghetto

That's alright, everything is okay

The ghetto
You better get a job
The ghetto
The ghetto
Quality night y'all (it was)

The ghetto
Everything is everything y'all
The ghetto
Pass the joint
The ghetto

The ghetto
The ghetto
We ain't gettin' out (woo)
The ghetto

Y'all look so elegant
The ghetto
The ghetto
The ghetto
Woo, look who it is
The ghetto

Yeah
The ghetto
The ghetto
The ghetto (get it)

The ghetto (leave her alone man)
The ghetto
The ghetto
The ghetto

Hey man give me you're money
You better not tell anybody
I don't owe you shit

Mm-hm (hey boy)
Mm-hm
Whoa (hey hey, hey hey)

The ghetto
Talkin' 'bout the ghetto
The ghetto
Talkin' 'bout the ghetto
I'm talkin' bout the ghetto (the ghetto)
Talkin' 'bout the ghetto (hmm, yeah)
The ghetto
Talkin' 'bout the ghetto (it's alright now)
Talkin' bout the ghetto (the ghetto)
Talkin' 'bout the ghetto (oh)
The ghetto
Talkin' 'bout the ghetto (whoa yeah)
The ghetto
Talkin' 'bout the ghetto (hmm)
The ghetto
Talkin' 'bout the ghetto (hmm)

Mm-hmm
Whoa-oh
Whoa-oh

I'm talkin 'bout the ghetto
I'm talkin' bout the ghetto, yeah

Can y'all dig it out there?

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Hathaway Donny's song The Ghetto describe the living conditions and struggles of those residing in the ghetto. It is a representation of the Black experience in America and the disparities that exist between those living in poverty and those who are more privileged. The use of the phrase "sure 'nuff" emphasizes the reality and truth in the portrayal of the ghetto.

The repetition of "The ghetto" throughout the song emphasizes the sense of confinement and encapsulation that people in the ghetto experience. The mention of passing the joint and the line "you better get a job" depicts the struggle to find work and the use of drugs as a coping mechanism for the harsh reality of living in the ghetto.

The line "you ain't doing what you're supposed to, you doing what you wanna do" addresses the societal perceptions and stereotypes that those living in the ghetto are lazy or unmotivated, when in reality they may be doing all they can to survive.

Overall, The Ghetto is a poignant portrayal of the realities of living in poverty and demonstrates the systemic issues that exist within society that contribute to the creation and maintenance of the ghetto.

Line by Line Meaning

Ooh, mm
The start of the song, expressing a soulful sound that sets the tone for the theme of the ghetto

Yes, this is the ghetto, sure 'nuff now
Acknowledgement and confirmation of the current situation and environment being a ghetto

Don't you know that's all right?
Encouragement to accept and be content with life in the ghetto despite its difficulties

The ghetto
Repetition to emphasize that the song is about the ghetto and that it's a consistent theme of the song

Sure 'nuff
An expression of affirmation and truth about the reality of the situation

You don't know what I'm talking about, yeah
Acknowledgement that some might not fully understand or relate to living in the ghetto

My Lord
An expression of frustration and despair regarding the living conditions in the ghetto

Pass the joint
An expression of coping and relaxation through the use of drugs in the ghetto

We ain't gettin' out (woo)
Acceptance that the ghetto might be a permanent place for some people and there may not be a way out

Hey man give me you're money
A representation of the dangerous and illegal activities that occur in the ghetto such as robbery

Talkin' 'bout the ghetto
Reiteration of the song's focus and theme being the ghetto

Can y'all dig it out there?
A question posed to the audience, asking if they can relate or sympathize with the struggles of living in the ghetto

Lyrics © Songtrust Ave, Peermusic Publishing
Written by: Donny Edward Hathaway, Leroy Hutson

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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Comments from YouTube:

@GreenredProductions

6y↑120

Good old times...!

@karlprice985

Prrach

@faxyeagle1573

3y↑1

Yes

@earlenedearing9621

3y↑1

Yes yes indeed and I am grateful to enjoy those days I had a GOOD TEENAGE AND YOUNG ADULT LIFE PARTY OVER HERE PARTY OVER THERE PEACE MUCH LOVE STAY SAFE TO ALL WITH MICH 💘

@jamesthreatt5018

5y↑45

I remember sitting on the floor listening to this tune and my oldest daughter (Montrese) took her first steps. She turned 50 last February and I will never forget that. 8/2019. Thank you Donny.

@Madmarsha

1y↑1

What a sweet memory!

@narvelancoleman3813

7y↑75

I was living and going to college in Texas back in 1970. A friend brought back a copy of this masterpiece on a single, 45 " vinyl record from a trip to New York. It had not yet reached distribution in the Texas record stores. When he played it for us......we could not get enough of it! We played it over, and over, and over and over. That little record floated around among friends.....and never suffered a scratch; which was so easy to happen to vinyl. This is one of the jams I pop into my car DVD player at least 4 times a week......FORTY SEVEN YEARS LATER!!!

@Keys7

1y↑2

You grew up in one of the most progressive and equally tumultuous times in human history. I always marvel you types..

@rudolphleal8515

..., I was bought-up in da "PURPLE-LIFE...,G.S.W. 🍇" of da "Jordan Down Projects", as was Many N' Plenty of my Homies War'n, and Grind'n on da "GHETTO STREETS OF WATTS"...! Upon the Insistence of my absentee Father, and my struggling Ma'ma..l was FORCED to attend college at U.S.C., in Los Angeles...(University of South Central.) Graduating "TOP" in my "CLASS" I earned a Early Masters Degree in Business Administration majoring in Import/Export~Whole Sale/Retail of 💉💊 Medicines, with a Ph.d.. (Pretty hard d*ck.) in Pimpology. My man DONNY is not only singing, making music 🎶 for the amusement and entertainment of white blue-collar audiences, but also echo ling the pain, and hardships of all his people Grind'n on Ghetto Streets across Whorish, Greedy, America. It's Dirty, and it's Filthy...but it's my Home. DONNY will "ALWAYS" be remembered, and live in da hearts of all those that choose to turn a EAR to his music 🎶, and "THOSE " that Listen to the "SILENT SCREAMS" of his SOUL.
Big Rudolph/Poizon~G.S.W.

@garethmclean7128

52w

Once it's the truth good music & values can't be suppressed.

@dennisthemenace7801

51w

@Keys MateriaL LOL I dont. God bless the modern things we have now. Experience be damned. I like the 21st century, and cell phone cameras and body cams and the internet to share it on. Progressive my ass

@sammyflores6607

1y↑56

I used to play air congas and sing while this record played, and I did it well. I really felt the soul and spirit of his message. I was 14 at the time , Chicano from East L.A. experiencing poverty , oppression and police brutality in the Barrio. Was able to overcome the anger and rage. Got to admit, it still comes out in certain situations. But filled with the Holy Spirit today which keeps me grounded and in peace. This world would not have been the same without Donny and this master piece. Love you all! Peace and Love

@thedecafe1

I used lol 😂

@elliotpennick8410

1y↑3

I was a 20. y/o USAF. combat security policeman at TSN AB RVN. going thru. a a bunch of "MESS" doing my duty and the. stuff in Saigon 1969-70

@sammyflores6607

1y↑1

@Elliot Pennick Thanks for your service brother! In the 60's and 70's there was alot of confusion and misunderstanding but, as the smoke cleared, most of us know that you were loyally serving our great country. I hope life after V-N has been good to you! Peace and Love

@averyjackson3871

2y↑11

I was Born and Raised in Harlem and Remember this Song Like it was yesterday I live threw the 60, 70's AND 80 'S IN HARLEM this song is a soul cleanser a classic! shout out to Donny Hathaway who's an Ancestor now !

@thedecafe1

I was lol 😂

@averyjackson3871

1y↑1

@The Decafe I don't get it, what was your point?

@Belrivers

5y↑81

The drums are awesome. I remember this song growing up, when the music had more soul to it. It spoke to you, reflected the times, and the need for love.

@davidforshaw4810

2y↑1

👍Well said!" 🎶🔑❤

@yinkaakinbami

8y↑21

The voice and the background voices...the hand claps....the drums....the baby crying....everything....awesome!!!!!!

@calvinclarke7990

2y↑20

Such a Beautiful Classic 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾👌🏾🙏🏾👍🏾

@DaddyL1984

2y↑24

I listened to the live version over and over as a kid. I still listen to it today! If it was good then, it is even better now! "Willie Weeks on bass yaw!" I love my mother for introducing me to Soooooul music!

@thedecafe1

I listened lol 😂

@redclay50

4y↑1

1970s..Los Angeles, Crenshaw area, ..nightclub called 'The Pied Piper'..an evening out..supper,.. drinks,...& Donny Hathaway..LIVE! Gave me chills then..still does. The talent..the musicians...all jammin hard. Great memory.

@anitaabonita

7y↑42

I was born in '91 and i LOVE this man and many many other soulful musicians of this wonderful music era. Only wish i could have lived it first hand. How awesome would that have been?? I'd rather listen to all the music from 50 years than this ridiculous music my peers obviously think is "real" music. They have no idea lol.

@georgia80jamsnor3

2y↑2

This song bring back so meany memories from back in the days.

@DMMcCann

2y↑2

It was so awesome that hearing these old songs still take my breath away. It’s good to hear younger folks know & appreciate!

@camerinolopez9870

@Georgia 80 jams nor ©^·

@marykillion7876

5y↑33

It took them this long to induct this amazing singer and songwriter in the hall of fame. He should have been there. Donnie Hathaway is one of the most talented artists I ever heard RIP my king.❤🙏🏿🎶

@thedecafe1

1y↑1

It took lol 😂

@cbanks1980

7y↑16

fuck rap. this is what we need to get back too. soul, funk, and meaning.

@sharonlonon8086

7y↑3

Christian Banks , you said that right. fuck rap! I hate that shit. I don't listen to that shit, don't allow that shit to be played on any of my equipment. Back when the thing was scratching records, I said to myself then, I know it's some shit coming next. Scratching and rapping is nothing but a Poor Excuse for music. Pure Bullshit.

@natkhaole5791

7y↑31

This is music of an era I feel privileged to have lived through. Great musicians

@thedecafe1

This is lol 😂

@user-um6lz9hg3r

31w↑1

me, too

@ayndowney9401

19w↑1

We are very blessed to see, hear and be inspired because of truly engaging artist with such talented forces of vision. Thank the Master for these trend setters and Visionary World 🌍 wide influence!😊😅🎉🎉😂❤

@rockyfella45

2y↑24

As real as R&B soul can get. Vintage magic...

@thedecafe1

As real lol 😂

@rockyfella45

1y↑1

@The Decafe Compared to the contemporary, computerised, autotuned shite - masquerading as soul - on the radio these days, I'd say that 'real' is the perfect adjective, Mr Decaffeinated...

@janicetaylor3725

4y↑8

Who don't and who didn't love the artist and this song? He had that 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥💯💯🎼🤗🌹🌹🌹 RIP! Poet Donnie 🎤✌️

@lonniecoward3640

2y↑24

A true Soul Legend rest in peace

@thedecafe1

A true lol 😂

@howardspeights8217

6y↑251

Let us not forget. This brother was bringing awareness about his people through his music. He made it positive through his vibes regardless of the real conditions that existed. Oppression is in the mind. Liberation from oppression is in the mind also. Musical messages such as this song make the one who experiences The Ghetto remember it's real and can be overcome. Besides what a GROOVE. KEEP PUSHING MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS. Whatever color you are on the outside. GOD BLESS. Mansions on the way.

@OPRAHRULZ

2y↑8

There are no mansions on the way. Doesnt work that way. Most are stuck in the ghetto and they wont leave

@sibhlubxiong4715

2y↑3

What a great way to put it

@theherbpuffer

2y↑5

A lot of soul artists had messages in their songs, including Curtis Mayfield, Gil Scott Heron, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder... Especially Gil!

@tedstunes22

2y↑1

@Yeehee yes

@SexyFace

2y↑4

i have doubts about this man willingly jumping from his window

2 More Replies...

@PriestessAusetRaAmen

6y↑38

One of our greatest voices this century. Timeless classic that will caress you deep in your soul.

@thedecafe1

One of lol 😂

@byronrhoades6338

3y↑15

Such a talent, and such a tragedy that his depression/mental imbalance took him down. Damn! He could fly without wings. A very bright light went out far too soon. Donny and Roberta might still be making our hairs stand.

@thedecafe1

Such a lol 😂

@antoniolerma3858

6y↑35

Another brother with so much talent who left too soon.

@maaliikali6319

4y↑10

Master Musician Mr. Donny Hathaway A God of Sound, Vibrations and Tone, Rest In Power, Thank You For Gifting Us With Your Presence and Music, PBUH!!!

@treytaylor1511

5y↑37

That note at 0:51 I've never heard anything as mesmerizing as that in all the world of music. His voice is simply amazing

@thedecafe1

That lol 😂

@treytaylor1511

1y↑1

@The Decafe Yes, donny's B3 notes are top tier.

@BNforever2009

6y↑1

I remember this song when it first came out on the radio. Yes, it describes us, that grew up in the ghetto. we know what it takes to survive in the ghetto and we know what is true and good music. Donnie was a true songwriter, true musician and he knew what black people go thru in this country. Yes, Chicago, 1970 Lawndale neighborhood. Ogden Ave and Central Park ave.

@tommyhawke9677

5y↑50

That is something special when an artist can touch the suffering soul and bring about healing. Donny Hathaway knew suffering. What a gift to the world and the human soul…
This guy will forever be discovered by new ears and forever stand high, side by side with the greatest artists then, now and when...

@forgetsummer94

2y↑3

3 years after you made this comment I found this song and became a fan 👌🏼

@anastasiarose4482

2y↑2

I love his daughter, Lala Harhaway but boiiiiiiii The Father Hathaway is a talent to behold. Rest in Power King

@dmuir7526

1y↑29

Donny Hathaway transports me to another universe: full of the rhythms, colours and taste of life at its richest. Such a magnificent voice & ability to imbue each instrument he played with all of his soul. I mean, to be an Anglo-Australian and have every nerve in my body tingling from this great musician’s ability to soar so effortlessly is a gift. It spans culture, creed and time. How I wish he had received the care he truly needed to manage his mental illness. ❤ Always ask your friends & colleagues: “how are you?” It’s the simplest way to check if that person needs you or a professional in times of real need.

@mrmaxxx94

6y↑74

Donny Hathaway put his whole heart and soul into this classic,this man made you feel emotion,heart and pain,an incredible musical talent

@joehall8753

4y↑7

That's the difference between Soul music and R&B.

@laquetaworley4791

3y↑10

Aww !! I loved him !!! Donny was always speaking the. TRUTH 🎤🎶🎵
Rest on Donny in our HEARTS
💞

@thedecafe1

Aww 🥰 lol 😂

@amandaking714

6y↑6

The brother kicked this song up to the hilt. Love this song and yes He is gone waayy too soon. There was so much more music in him that will never be tapped. Rest in God's loving arms. Lead that heavenly choir.

@alphonse-louisvinh214

7y↑15

I've loved this song since I was a teenager and bought the album long-lost. Thank you for restoring it to me via YouTube! A Soul masterpiece! RIP Donny.

@thedecafe1

I’ve lol 😂

@garrenkeith1986

10y↑49

Who in their right mind would dislike this song.... Amazing voice, talent as well as an amazing song....

@thedecafe1

Who in lol 😂

@davidbowens8811

4y↑31

One of the most soulful songs regarding one of the most unique places in the America, "The Ghetto". A place where people who survived the middle passage came to discovered their America's Black Dream in a social culture of its own here in America. Notice the few words in this song? The Ghetto speaks a language of its own that gave its listeners words musically from a black perspective where No Words are needed only the spirit of the rhythm and sounds of the music, that touches the souls its people who to feel the meaning of overcoming the strifes and economic disadvantages of our social designation, in the America's Ghettos, as Donny says we know what He's Talking about when he sings the sounds of the Ghettos... it is what it is the Ghetto. Miss You, My Brother: Donny Hathaway

@billjames6250

7y↑93

There are songs like this one, that no one should ever try to record. Donny is all over this song. This song is forever a Donny Hathaway classic.

@ignaciopullum1091

7y↑2

Bill James too short honored him but the original masterpiece is a piece of the Master....real music

@glendajones3173

6y↑2

Bill James I agree

@qaasimazeem9940

5y↑1

Glenda Jones

@qaasimazeem9940

5y↑5

In the 70s music had real soul and lyrics with meaning.

@maryannfields33

4y↑1

George Benson killed it!

2 More Replies...

@critter7052

3y↑11

Donnie, such a talented keyboardist and singer left this world too soon. : (

@joeschweidinz7775

3y↑8

What a wonderful person ❤️. Love 🎶. RIP

@deannasinger2720

5y↑13

The instruments alone are tellN the story... what a brilliant masterpiece...

@capitaleyo2

1y↑7

I can feel the pain in this song like no other, Every time I hear it, it just floods me with emotions. Powerful song! Was sorry to see him go so soon......"only the good die young....".....

@jamesprevard6555

2y↑10

Young man is truly unforegetable.iconic period!!!

@thedecafe1

Young lol 😂

@jamesprevard6555

@@thedecafe227 sorry I used the metaphor! I'm 75 years young. Okay 👍

@thedecafe1

@James Prevard No, it’s ok 👍 I’m just messing around lol 😂

@jamesprevard6555

@@thedecafe227 hey maybe I am getting old ! Peace..

@maplerice5820

5y↑9

Gone But He Will Never Be Forgotten. Such An Amazing Musician.

@estlhm805

5y↑18

The voice, the music could make you see and feel beyond imagination. A musical genius like no other

@thedecafe1

The voice lol 😂

@rachelbennett9498

2y↑4

Still funky as hell Oct 29, 2021. Thank you Donny for all of your music.

@irishviking76

33w↑1

I am a White Boy...grew up on USMC Bases 1966. Thru 1973, one block from NAVAL HOSPITAL QUANTICO.
Donny Hathaway I cut my teeth listening to The brothers music.

@richboyce977

9y↑41

Classic track filled with so much funk and soul...even for those who have never been, Donny takes you there with his empowering vocal.

@thedecafe1

Classic lol 😂

@lucynhlapo7065

I enjoyed his music. I still have the album (black) and have the CD too! Donny is the best!

@carlospeixoto1099

3y↑42

Mais um que nos deixou um legado e tanto. Que voz, que talento, que suingue. Tenho o vinil, raríssimo.

@marcusschneider4411

2y↑1

Parabéns !!!! Um dos velhos gigantes !!!!

@Causeur225

7y↑34

The conga solo on this song is what got me interested in playing. Still one of my favorite solos.

@raymondstokes3082

3y↑2

Me too....

@algiemcneal2014

46w↑7

Fantastic singer and musician I saw him perform live I'll never forget how talented he was

@Accidentinparadiable

29w↑1

That's really awesome ❤

@RealLadi228

7y↑34

His daughter spitting image of him both physically and vocally...#Lala Hathaway

@itstheru274

3y↑1

We need too "stop being " a Shame we all have a "Elephant 🐘" in the room 😕🥺 love this brother ❤

@tredseeker

🤎🤎🤎🔥Love me some #Donnie&LalaHathaway

@moniquekyle8354

3y↑5

Brilliant artist. Sad story for a beautiful person. God bless you 🙏 ❤

@jackireneetitchenor1028

3y↑5

I could just see my mom strutting across the floor this was her cut rest in heaven mom I miss you so much 💖

@obligatoryresponse5733

20w↑1

Coming up on the south side of Chicago in the 70s. This takes me back to those days. Even though we were poor it was still a glorious time.

@beverlyharris9859

37w↑2

SENSATIONAL AWESOME BEAUTIFUL HEAVENLY AMAZING WONDERFUL GENIUS SIMPLY THE BEST.

@thomasforsythe6353

1y↑1

My jam, Thee Jam. Donny Hathaway I no words to describe this music 🎵 So deep and soulful

@GerryFosterBranding

5y↑4

First heard this song when it came out in '71. I was a college sophomore. What an arrangement! What a beat!! What a voice!!! No other artist alive or dead even comes close. r

@andilezeka

1y↑8

I loved this song for more than 20 yrs & it still fascinates me. I hope you all enjoy it

@brianhenrycoraizin7667

7y↑9

Truly one of my favourite stars. Donny Hathaway appreciated all the way south of the African Continent! We grew up in ghettos in Cape Town South Africa in the days of racist "Apartheit".

@pauldecastro8921

this was my song in 1971. freshman in college, played it every day, loved donny and his beat,, smokes and many beers...and beautiful african american ladies, oh yeah..

@sergesarkissian1427

1y↑2

A unforgeable song the 70 s we love it

@samuel.langhorne.clemens

1y↑5

The level of artistry and musical talent is extremely high with this man and his fellow musicians. When technical mastery of instruments and musical genres combines with the ability to move people and speak to their souls—that’s when you get something really rare and special.

@andrearitchie6464

5y↑18

I've loved his music for a long time. So powerful!

@soneyliston7902

3y↑7

I have been into soul since I was 11 or 12, and I still love it, the first album I bought was you got soul

@georgemahamo6167

9y↑13

An all time master of soul, a legend that will never be forgotten, his spirit will forever live on

@rajeshkaran7800

6y↑4

BEAUTIFUL SONG BEAUTIFUL VOICE BEAUTIFUL SOUL SAD LOSS⚘ along with GIL SCOTT HERRONS THE BOTTLE BOTH THESE SONGS ARE A MASTERPIECE FOR ME,

@bonganimthombeni319

24w↑2

Timeless music of all times. Thank you Donny 😊.

@deediamond320

just sitting around listening to magnificent , incredible , famous music songs from brilliant people song writers, and singers from the entertainment business. its' beautiful ,the music soothe, and comfort the soul. the rich history of music made from as far back as the 1920!!! to the 1985 is GONE!!! we were blessed, and touched by men and women to share their heavenly talent. the best have come and gone!!!!! ALL GONE TO SOON!!!!!. they should be here now as SENIORS' enjoying their input in creating wonderful music that the world have enjoyed.. YOU ARE MISSED!!!!!. thank GOD for the music you have left behind what a golden treasure CAN NOT BE DUPLICATED!!!!! 12/20/17

@henrymurrell5983

4y↑2

This song ain't nothing but the truth of the way of life in the ghetto love this song keep it coming

@jasonhay1956

4y↑3

Your still #1 Mr. Donny Hathaway

@rayhanes1347

8y↑244

Wish I could have come up in the 70s. This music is what u call organic music, none of that mainstream GMO of today.

@rayhanes1347

8y↑6

Silicon Slave Negativity isn't needed.

@bassimgesicht

same here :-(

@sadielangemo7600

7y↑1

Love man

@GodisAgapelove4172

I say the same thing all the time.

@burtonhagwood4682

7y↑1

ray hanes

16 More Replies...

@laruemckenzie6893

5y↑184

Lawd Jesus !!! One of the smoothest, funkiest, soul rockin' jams ever recorded....period !!! He left too early...

@carollevy413

Hhu

@andyreid6869

TROLLS

@modernmilner9836

4y↑1

The first time I heard this, it blew me away. Still does.

@jackieobrien-murphy320

4y↑7

Outstanding song. Fantastic singer. 👏🍀

@augustuswhite5211

4y↑12

In my humble opinion hes the purest voice in music.

@cookiewilson8306

7y↑40

Donny Hathaway - A great legend and genius gone too soon. Rest in heaven Donny. Gone but not forgotten!

@NYCResident543

6y↑12

GOD I love him. His voice just DOES it for me. Soooo smooth.

@frankiebowie6174

10y↑15

I grew up about as far away from the ghetto as you can get, but donny Hathaway's artistry makes me feel this cut down to my bones...
I have never heard this until today but it's already a favorite

@ConjuntoBuenaMezcla

The godfather of the St.Louis soul funk groove. What a voice, a down groove, a touch of Latin bugaloo and soul..oh yeah., love this early 70's masterpiece!!

@jaylovett6697

3y↑3

Blessed to have great music passed down to me

@mslcjohnsonbghs

4y↑12

A tragic ending 😔 for a gifted 😪 musician.

@paulcooper5748

3y↑1

Yeah it really is a sad story how he died was such a awesome musician and seemed a realy nice person.

@thapelomareletse5283

7y↑30

my dad loved this guy, waked up every morning to this pure talent was a blessing...

Dad, may your soul rest in peace

@marlo1987sh

5y↑3

WOW WOW WOW WOW WOW My dad listened to this all the time when I was growing up!!! now I old enough to truly appreciate it!!!💯

@oldschoolsang93

Your dad is a real men

@christinepozerycki7208

8y↑19

One of the greats from any era. Universal love and excellence! Listen to all of his work. An education, indeed. And no pitch adjustment in post production.

@sylviacarter8774

5y↑3

Had a exquisitely beautiful voice sleep well Mr.Hathaway💜🎤🎶🎼

@daleandrews9356

4y↑597

I was a white boy in college in the early '70's and we used to drive around outside the dorm, get smoked up and come back to our dorm rooms and listen to Donny's music. Them and WAR! We didn't care the color of the music artist...as long as it was good.

@elliottbracken9986

4y↑80

Same thing here bro,, we would get buzzed up listen to led Zeppelin, Sir Elton John, Jethro Tull, the stones, and I am a black man from the motor City so you know we had to listen to The temptations.

@itstheru274

3y↑23

Right on!! 💪🏿👍🏿

@faxyeagle1573

3y↑13

Yes

@deloresdodson1048

3y↑19

Thats Whats Up ..I miss those Days

@Torihope1000

3y↑48

Good music is good music. Not sure why color even needs to be mentioned.

54 More Replies...

@christopheralford9218

5y↑11

Now this is soul music from the heart RIP Donnie your music is forever timeless* **

@cesarantoniocartaya8087

7y↑6

Quien se puede olvidar de esta gran cancion - nadie - que años aquellos. tan maravillosos

@thedecafe1

Quein lol 😂

@edithfalanga5833

2y↑1

Grand monsieur donny hattaway j'écoutais ça petite avec mon père et j'écoute ça aujourd'hui avec mes enfants et dans 50 ans on écoutera encore. Indémodable et Puissant merci papa pour cette culture musicale !!!

@deborahbrown864

10y↑22

Very happy to have the opportunity to see Donny Hathaway perform this song in concert at McGonigle Hall on Temple University's campus. His performance was awesome!!!

@TripleC1960

5y↑1

My Mother hyped 😂 me to the sounds of music and this is one of my favorite.

@newtonbrown344

Sadly Missed. A Deep and Unique Artist who gave So Much To Black Music. R.I.P. Bro. Donny.

@darrylgraham5339

5y↑3

This song brings back GOODTIMES/Badtimes growing up in a rough neighborhood in Detroit , Mi but also has alot of lessons in life i learned growing up in the Ghetto your more APPRECIATIVE/ HUMBLE/PATIENT/ AWARE/ CAN MOST DEFINITELY ADAPT TO CHANGE IN RELOCATING ANYWHERE🎩TRULLY AN AMAZING SONG ! #LOVEDONNYHATHAWAYSMUSIC🙏🙏🙏💌💌💌

@wandellsimmons4568

@kayboggan2669

3y↑2

Donny was extremely talented ... No one has come better than him no replacement ... He had lots of weight issues that he could not overcome ... That took him away from this 🌎 world .... I pray that his soul was excepted in to the world 🌎 of eternal life 🙏🏿🌹

@TheOneMisterSunshine

8y↑25

Such a talented man gone too soon from the world. R.I.P with that big band in the sky.

@PatriciaGaines-yp5tc

43w

I'm 65 the Black Panthers tought me how to read, write, count, Defend myself and Above all Love God..Identify and recognize yo' self..it's a place you have to be..music brings it to mind..a nd the place still remains!! We talkin' bout' the GHETTO!!!!!!

@farjado1

8y↑4

Great sound, seek right into your soul. RIP

@Take5Geri

6y↑4

Loved every minute ...always go back in time when Hathaway's songs come on. Always fresh. <3

@p.m.4820

8y↑136

This was one of my favorite songs when I was a kid. I swear, Donny Hathaway has one of the most beautiful male voices I have EVER heard. We lost a great talent a long time ago, unfortunately.

@nqobizwenyide7436

6y↑6

Reminds me of Katumbela,Benguela in Angola we were leaving the military camp to Novo Katengue we played this tune for over two hours Simphiwe Mthobi on guitar(Gatsha).Donny brought the whole camp together.

@SkammLykelee

5y↑4

Not to mention his talent as a keyboard artist.

@r.m4102

3y↑2

Too Short the ghetto came from this and jeezy da ghetto came from too short well rounded in all aspects 💯🙏🎶🎶🎶 and I listen to all three of these track 🤩

@pavelusa3423

2y↑1

In loving memory of a beautiful player..thanx fella

@shelbykindred7487

6y↑3

Amazing voice...........RIP Donny Hathaway

@AccordingtoZorn

8y↑127

The opening note blow me away. This is amazing music. Funk, soul, and pure passion.

@loveyouall66

8y↑5

+Zorn Wyche LET'S HEAR IT FOR THE CONGA DRUMS.

@AccordingtoZorn

8y↑5

+loveyouall66 Those are very lovely as well. Gives the song more of a funky flavor.

@oldjazzy846

8y↑5

+loveyouall66 OH YEAH! The congas - can't get enough of them!

1

@linoramos2370

6y↑2

Heart.

@moketanesemousu4482

Always been part of the black South African culture. Loved it since the 70s. Great sound

@davidhinchey8673

6y↑43

QUALITY, pure QUALITY............ 2018 and it still blows my mind !

@marie-rosedaly4234

5y↑1

2019 :o)

@SafetyMentalst

4y↑5

So very Smooth and Flowing takes me back to my happy place .. THANKS I LOVE IT !!

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