Mama Tried Lyrics

Merle Haggard, Bluebook Music (BMI) (minor variations in this version)

First thing I remember knowin' was a lonesome whistle blowin'
And a young-on's dream of growing up to ride
On a freight train out of 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
Depite of all my Sunday learnin', toward the bad I kept on turnin'
'Til my 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, he left ma 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 steer me right, but I refused

[Chorus]