Mama Tried

(album: Hitchhike To Rhome - 1994)

First thing I remember knowing was a lonesome whistle blowing
And a young-on's dream of growing up to ride
On a freight train out of 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
Depite of all my Sunday learning, toward the bad I kept on turning
'Til my Mama couldn't hold me anymore

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

Dear old Daddy rest his soul, he left ma 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 steer me right, but I refused

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