First thing I remember knowin' was a lonesome whistle blowin' And the youngest dream of growing up to ride Inspite of all my Sunday learnin' toward the bad I kept on turnin' No one could steer me right but mama tried
And I turned twenty one in prison doing life without parole No one would steer me right but mama tried (mama tried) Mama tried to raise me better but her pleadings I denied That leaves only me to blame cause mama tried [ guitar - piano ] 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