About The Song
Song Information
- Songwriters: Merle Haggard
- Original release: 1968
- Genre: Country Music
- Notable recordings: Merle Haggard (1968), Tammy Wynette (1970), Johnny Cash (1970)
Background
“Mama Tried” is a country music classic that tells the story of a rebellious young man who defies his mother’s wishes and plans to run away to Alaska. The song was written by Merle Haggard and released by his debut album, “Haggard.”
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Mama Tried” are filled with longing and determination. The protagonist describes his love for his mother, but also his desire for independence and adventure. He expresses his fear of disappointing her, but also his belief that he can find his own happiness.
Music Videos
There have been many music videos of “Mama Tried” over the years, with the most famous versions featuring Merle Haggard (1968), Tammy Wynette (1970), and Johnny Cash (1970). Here are a few of the most popular:
- Merle Haggard – Mama Tried (Original 1968): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppEfGIGVteo
- Tammy Wynette – Mama Tried (1970): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pv4skWUaghg
- Johnny Cash – Mama Tried (1970): https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=7CahU8bSgyA
- Willie Nelson – Mama Tried (1970): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlR8jWrRSjA
- Gene Autry – Mama Tried (1954): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppEfGIGVteo
Additional Information
- “Mama Tried” has been covered by many other artists, including Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, and Loretta Lynn.
- The song has been featured in many movies and television shows, including “Thelma and Louise” and “The Dukes of Hazzard.”
- “Mama Tried” is considered one of Merle Haggard’s most iconic songs. It is a classic country song about a rebellious young man who defies his mother’s wishes and dreams of a better life for himself.
I hope this information is helpful! Please let me know if you have any other questions.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
The first thing I remember knowin’
Was a lonesome whistle blowin’
And a young un’s dream of growin’ up to ride
On a freight train leavin’ town
Not knowin’ 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 learnin’
Towards the bad, I kept on turnin’
‘Til Mama couldn’t hold me anymore
And I turned twenty-one in prison doin’ 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
Dear old Daddy, rest his soul
Left my Mom a heavy load
She tried so very hard to fill his shoes
Workin’ 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 doin’ 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
