Lyrics Mamma Tried - Merle Haggard

The first thing I remember knowing
Was a lonesome whistle blowing
And a young gun's dream of growing up to ride
On a freight train leaving 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
In spite of all my Sunday learning
Towards the bad I kept on turning
Until Mama couldn't hold me anymore

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
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

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