Mama Tried

Mama Tried - 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