(+) Mama Tried
The first thing I remember knowing
Was a lonesome whistle blowing
And a young un's dream
Of growing up to ride
On a freight train leaving town
Not knowing where I'm bound
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
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
'Cos 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
'Cos Mama tried