Final answer:
The song "The Message" by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five reflects the bleakness of the ghetto, danger of crime, and racism, distinguishing itself from other hip-hop songs of its era by its vivid social commentary.
Step-by-step explanation:
The song that depicts the bleakness of the ghetto, the danger of crime, and racism is "The Message" by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five. Unlike "Rapper's Delight" by Sugarhill Gang and "Apache" by The Sugarhill Gang which are more celebratory and upbeat, or "Planet Rock" by Afrika Bambaataa that focuses on the electronic aspects of hip hop, "The Message" provides a stark narrative about the struggles of inner-city life. With its powerful lyrics and its portrayal of urban decay and despondence, "The Message" became an anthem that expressed the socio-economic and racial challenges faced by African-American communities in the 1980s. It resonates with Chuck D of Public Enemy's approach, using hip-hop as a form of resistance and social commentary, and contrasts starkly with songs that focus on self-promotion or commercialism.