First thing I remember knowing was a lonesome whistle blowing

And the youngest 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 for my family meek and mild

My mama seemed to know what laid in store

Inspite of all my Sunday learning toward the bad I kept on turning

Till mama couldn't hold me anymore

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

[ dobro ]

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

I turned twenty one in prison...

Mama tried