Hank Snow - Mama Tried Lyrics

Written by Merle Haggard

Recorded by Hank Snow



First thing I remember knowin' was a lonesome whistle blowin'

And the youngest 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

One and only rebel child for my family meek and mild

My mama seemed to know what lay in store

Inspite of all my Sunday learnin' toward the bad I kept on turnin'

Till 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 pleadings I denied

That leaves only me to blame cause mama tried

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

And I turned twenty one in prison...

That leaves only me to blame cause mama tried