The first thing I remember knowin'
Was a lonesome whistle blowin'
And a young'un's dream of growing up to ride
On a freight train leavin' 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 o' all my Sunday learnin'
Towards the bad I kept on turnin'
'Til Mama couldn't hold me anymore
I turned twenty-one in prison doin' 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
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
Mama Tried Lyrics performed by Merle Haggard are property and copyright of the authors, artists and labels. You should note that Mama Tried Lyrics performed by Merle Haggard is only provided for educational purposes only and if you like the song you should buy the CD