Joan Baez & Jeffrey Shurtleff / Mama Tried

 

 

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
Never knowing where I'm bound
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 learning
Towards the bad I kept on turning
'Til Mama couldn't hold me anymore

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 pleadings I denied
That leaves only me to blame 'cos Mama tried

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

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 pleadings I denied
That leaves only me to blame 'cos Mama tried

 

One Day At A Time (Bonus Track) ('70)

 

※source: Old house