Mama Tried Lyrics - Freddie Hart

First thing I remember knowing was a lonesome whistle blowing 

And the youngest 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 for my family meek and mild 

My mama seemed to know what laid in store 

Inspite of all my Sunday learning toward the bad I kept on turning 

Till 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 

[ dobro ] 

Dear old daddy rest his soul left my mama 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... 

Mama tried