The first thing I remember knowin' was a
lonesome whistle blowin' and a young'un's
dream of growing up to ride.
On a freight train leavin' town not knowin'
where I'm bound and no one could change my
mind but Mama tried.
#2.
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 learnin', towards
the bad I kept a-turnin', 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, 'cause Mama tried.
#3.
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, 'cause Mama tried.
OUTRO: E