First thing I remember knowing was a lonesome whistle blowing
And a young ones dream of growing up to ride
On a freight train leaving 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
In spite of all my Sunday learning towards the bad I kept on turning
‘Til 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.

My 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.