Living for the City by Stevie Wonder is a powerful social commentary on the struggles faced by African Americans in urban environments during the 1970s. The song addresses themes of systemic racism, economic hardship, and the pursuit of a better life. It narrates the story of a young Black man from Mississippi who moves to New York City with hopes of a brighter future, only to encounter prejudice and injustice. Key moments include the detailed depiction of his family's hard-working life in Mississippi and his unjust arrest and conviction in New York, capturing the harsh realities of the urban Black experience. The song highlights the resilience and aspirations of the Black community despite the oppressive societal structures they face.