Mama Tried

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
 No one could steer me right 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 21 in prison, doin' life without parole
 And 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, doin' life without parole
 And 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