[Verse 1]
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

[Verse 2]
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
Until 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

[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