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
|
And no one could change my mind 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
|
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 pleading I denied
|
That leaves only me to blame 'cause Mama tried
|
|
[ Solo in D Major ]
|
|
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
|
|
Chorus
|