First thing I remember knowin' was a lonesome whistle blowin'
And the youngest dream of growing up to ride
Inspite of all my Sunday learnin' toward the bad I kept on turnin'
No one could steer me right but mama tried

And I turned twenty one in prison doing life without parole
No one would 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
[ guitar - piano ]
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...