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Home Mama Tried by Merle Haggard – Ukulele Chords

Mama Tried by Merle Haggard – Ukulele Chords

by Per Kjeller
written by Per Kjeller
Mama Tried Ukulele Chords - Merle Haggard

Mama Tried Ukulele Chords – Merle Haggard. The chords used in this song are D, G, A7, and Bmin. Change the key of the song for FREE if needed.

Mama Tried Ukulele Chords – Merle Haggard

VERSE 1:
The first thing DI remember Gknowin’Was a Dlonesome whistle Gblowin’And a Dyoung un’s dream of growin’ up to A7rideOn a Dfreight train leavin’ GtownNot Dknowin’ where I’m GboundAnd no Done could change my Amind but Mama Dtried
VERSE 2:
One and Donly rebel GchildFrom a Dfamily, meek and GmildMy DMama seemed to know what lay in A7storeDespite Dall my Sunday Glearnin’Towards the Dbad, I kept on Gturnin’‘Til DMama couldn’t A7hold me anyDmore
CHORUS 1:
And I turned Dtwenty-one in prison doin’ Glife without parDoleNo Bminone could steer me right but Mama A7tried, Mama triedMama Dtried to raise me better, but her Gpleading, I DdeniedThat leaves only me to Ablame ’cause Mama Dtried
VERSE 2:
Dear old DDaddy, rest his GsoulLeft my DMom a heavy GloadShe Dtried so very hard to fill his A7shoesWorkin’ Dhours without GrestWanted Dme to have the GbestShe Dtried to raise me A7right but I reDfused
CHORUS 2:
And I turned Dtwenty-one in prison doin’ Glife without parDoleNo Bminone could steer me right but Mama A7tried, Mama triedMama Dtried to raise me better, but her Gpleading, I deDniedThat leaves only me to A7blame ’cause Mama Dtried.
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Mama Tried – History

“Mama Tried” by Merle Haggard is a classic country song that stands as one of the genre’s most enduring anthems of regret and redemption. Released in 1968, this track quickly rose to the top of the country charts, becoming one of Haggard’s signature songs. The song tells the autobiographical tale of a young man’s descent into crime and his subsequent imprisonment, despite his mother’s efforts to steer him on the right path. Its poignant lyrics and Haggard’s emotive delivery capture the essence of the country music narrative—stories of life, loss, and lessons learned.

What makes “Mama Tried” particularly compelling is its authenticity; Haggard drew upon his own troubled youth and time spent in San Quentin State Prison to craft a song that speaks to the heartbreak and hope within the human experience. This personal connection not only adds depth to the lyrics but also allows listeners to connect with the song on a personal level, reflecting on their own lives and the impact of their choices.

Musically, “Mama Tried” is a prime example of the Bakersfield sound, a subgenre of country music that emerged in the 1950s and 60s. Characterized by its raw, honky-tonk influences, and featuring electric guitars and a strong backbeat, the Bakersfield sound was a response to the polished, orchestral style of Nashville country music. Haggard, along with Buck Owens, was at the forefront of this movement, and “Mama Tried” showcases the stripped-down, gritty sound that made the Bakersfield style so influential.

The song’s legacy extends far beyond its chart success; “Mama Tried” has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, cementing its place in American musical history. It has also earned accolades, including a Grammy Hall of Fame award, highlighting its enduring impact on the country music genre and its universal appeal. Merle Haggard’s “Mama Tried” remains a powerful ode to motherhood, personal accountability, and the hope for redemption, continuing to resonate with audiences decades after its release.

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