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 lay 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
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
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