Merle Haggard	
Mama tried	
____________________________________________

The first thing I remember knowing 
was that lonesome whistle blowing
And a young man'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
Spite of all my Sunday learning 
towards the bad I kept on turning
Mama couldn't hold me any more

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

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