John Anderson, Marty Stuart - Mama Tried lyrics

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
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
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 '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