Mama Tried

The first thing I remember knowing, was a lonesome whistle blowin'

And a young un's dream of growing up to ride

On a freight train leaving town, not knowing where I'm bound

And no one could change my mind, but Mama tried

One and only rebel child, from a family meek and mild

My Mama seemed to know what lay in store

'Spite of all my Sunday learning, toward 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

 

(Optional Instrumental)

Dear old Daddy, rest his soul, he 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)