The first thing I remember knowing was a lonesome whistle blowing
And a youngun'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
Spite all my Sunday learning with the bad I kept on turning
Till 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
And that leaves only me to blame cause Mama Tried
Dear ole' daddy rest his soul left my mom a heavy load
She tried so very hard to feel his shoes
Working hours without rest wanted me to have the best
She tried to raise me right but I refused
Repeat chorus