The first I remember knowing
Was that lonesome whistle blowing
And a youngun's dream of growing up to ride
On a freight train leaving town
Not knowing where I was bound
No one could steer me right but mama tried
Was the only rebel child
From a family meek and mild
Mama seemed to know what lay in store
In spite of all my Sunday learning
For the bad I kept on turning
And mama couldn't hold me anymore
And I turned 21 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 no one but 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
Oh she tried to raise me right but I refused
And I turned 21 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 no one but me to blame cause mama tried
Mama Tried Lyrics performed by Grateful Dead are property and copyright of the authors, artists and labels. You should note that Mama Tried Lyrics performed by Grateful Dead is only provided for educational purposes only and if you like the song you should buy the CD