Mama Tried
Merle Haggard, 1968
verse
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chorus
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The first thing I remember knowing, Was a lonesome whistle blowing,
And a youngn's dream of growing up to ride.
On a freight train leaving town, Not knowing where I's bound,
No one could steer me right but Mama tried.
One and only rebel child, From a family meek and mild,
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.
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 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,
She tried to raise me right, but I refused.