Mama Tried
Merle Haggard

The first thing I remember knowing
Was a lonesome whistle blowing
And a young'ns' 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 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 my 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 cause Mama tried

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