Mama Tried

Merle Haggard


First thing I remember knowing was a lonesome whistle blowing
And a young one's dream of growing up to ride
On a freight train leaving town not knowing where I'm bound
No one could steer me right but Mama tried.

One and only rebel child from a family meek and mild
My mama seemed to know what lay in store.
In spite of all my Sunday learning towards the bad I kept on turning
'Til Mama couldn't hold me anymore.

Chorus:
And I turned twenty-one in prison doing life without parole.
No one could steer me right, but Mama tried, Mama tried.
Mama tried to raise me better but her pleading I denied.
That leaves only me to blame cause mama tried.

Dear old Daddy rest his soul left my mom a heavy load.
She tried so very hard to fill his shoes.
Working hours without rest wanted me to have the best.
She tried to raise me right but I refused.

Chorus