Mama Tried

Lyrics By: Merle Haggard Music By: Merle Haggard

The first thing I remember knowing, Was a lonesome whistle blowing, And a young un's dream of growing up to ride; On a freight train leaving town, Not knowing where I'm bound, 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. Despite all my Sunday learning, Towards the bad, I kept on turning. 'Til Mama couldn't hold me anymore.

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 'cos 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 'cos Mama tried.