First thing I remember knowin'
Was a lonesome whistle blowin'
And a youngins 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 learnin'
Towards bad I kept on turnin'
'Til Mama couldn't hold me anymore

And I turned 21 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 21 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
That leaves only me to blame, Mama tried