v.1
The first thing I remember knowin' was a lonesome whistle blowin'
And a youn'un's dream of growin' up to ride
On a freight train leavin' town, not knowin' where I'm bound
No one could change my mind, but Mama tried

v.2
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 the Bad I kept on turnin'
Til Mama couldn't hold me anymore

Chorus:
I turned 21 in prison doin' 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

Instr. Brk. 8bar

v.3
Dear old Daddy, rest his soul, left my Mom a heavy load
She tried so very hard to fill his shoes
Workin hours without rest, wantin' me to have the best
She tried to raise me right but I refused

Rpt. Ch.