Mama Tried

The first thing I remember knowing was a lonesome whistle blowing
And a young one'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
Despite all my Sunday learning, towards the bad I kept on turning
'Til mama couldn't hold me anymore

I turned 21 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

And I turned 21 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