G
C
G
C
The first thing I remember knowing was a lonesome whistle blowing
G
C
D7
And a youngun’s dream of growing up to ride
G
C
G
C
On a freight train leaving town not knowing where I’m bound
G
D7
G
And no one could change my mind but Momma Tried
C
G
C
One and only Rebel child from a family meek and mild
G
C
D7
My momma seemed to know what lay in store
G
C
G
C
Spite all my Sunday learning with the bad I kept on turning
G
D7
G
Till momma couldn’t hold me anymore
C
G
And I turned twenty-one in prison doing life without parole
D7
No one could steer me right but Momma Tried Momma Tried
G
C
G
Momma Tried to raise me better but her pleading I denied
D7
G
And that leaves only me to blame cause Momma Tried
C
G
C
Dear ole’ daddy rest his soul left my mom a heavy load
G
C
D7
She tried so very hard to feel his shoes
G
C
G
C
Working hours without rest wanted me to have the best
G
D7 G
She tried to raise me right but I refused
C
G
And I turned twenty-one in prison doing life without parole
D7
No one could steer me right but Momma Tried Momma Tried
G
C
G
Momma Tried to raise me better but her pleading I denied
D7
G
And that leaves only me to blame cause Momma Tried
C
D7
G
