Mama Tried Lyrics
The first thing I remember knowin'
Was a lonesome whistle blowin'
And a young'n's 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
[Verse 2]
A 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]
And 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
[Verse 3]
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
About
Written by Haggard, “Mama Tried” was released in July 1968 as the first single and title track from Merle’s album Mama Tried. The song became a cornerstone of the country legend’s storied career, for which he won CMT’s Artist of a Lifetime Award in 2014.
“Mama Tried” also nabbed Merle the Grammy Hall of Fame Award in 1999.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GYfjMMHEY0
Lyrically, the song tells the story of Haggard’s bad boy youth. What were the effects of his actions? He caused his own mother much pain and suffering when, in 1957, he was arrest and sent to San Quentin Prison.
While incarcerated, Haggard saw Johnny Cash play, an event that changed his life and inspired him to pursue a life in country music instead of petty crime.
Q&A
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the song and explore its deeper meaning
- 1.Mama Tried
- 10.Run ’Em Off
