What makes The World Is a Ghetto by War notable?

The album received critical acclaim and peaked at number one on the Billboard R&B chart, showcasing War's ability to merge social commentary with infectious grooves. Its title track became an anthem for the era, reflecting the struggles of urban America and influencing subsequent generations of funk and soul artists. Released in 1972, The World Is a Ghetto was War's third studio album and followed their breakthrough success with the hit single 'Spill the Wine.' At this point, War was solidifying their reputation as a pioneering band blending diverse musical genres, particularly through their innovative sound that combined rock, jazz, and Latin influences.

Who is The World Is a Ghetto for?

The World Is a Ghetto works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and atmospheric background focus.

How many songs are on The World Is a Ghetto?

The World Is a Ghetto has 6 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

The World Is a Ghetto

War · 1972

44 min · 6 tracks · funk

A vibrant fusion of funk, Latin rhythms, and progressive soul that narrates urban life with both joy and poignancy.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Cisco Kid — This track blends storytelling with infectious grooves and showcases War's unique ability to infuse humor into serious themes. Its catchy chorus has made it one of War's signature songs.
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City, Country, City — The sprawling instrumental piece captures a journey through different musical landscapes, exemplifying War's genre-blending approach. Its dynamic shifts highlight the band's improvisational skills.
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The World Is a Ghetto — As the title track, it encapsulates the album's social message while delivering a poignant reflection on urban life. The layered instrumentation enhances its emotional depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

71 /100

Alpine

Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

The album blends diverse styles and social themes, showcasing War's unique sound and narrative depth.

What we noticed

The title track features a prominent horn section that interplays with rhythmic guitar, creating a layered texture throughout.
Several tracks incorporate call-and-response vocals, enhancing the communal feel of the music.
The album's longest track, 'City, Country, City,' shifts between different musical sections, blending funk grooves with spoken word elements.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

long, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
atmospheric background focus
gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1972, The World Is a Ghetto was War's third studio album and followed their breakthrough success with the hit single 'Spill the Wine.' At this point, War was solidifying their reputation as a pioneering band blending diverse musical genres, particularly through their innovative sound that combined rock, jazz, and Latin influences.
Stylistic neighbors: Earth, Wind & Fire· Santana· Tower of Power