Mama Tried
View chords used in this chart
D G D G
One and only Rebel child from a family meek and mild
D A7
my Momma seemed to to know what lay in store
D G D G
In spite of all my Sunday learning towards the bad I kept on turning
D A7 D
til Momma couldn't hold me anymore
D7 G D
And I turned twenty-one in prison doing life without parole
D A7
No one could steer me right but Mamma tried, Momma tried
D7 G D
Momma tried to raise me better but her pleadings I denied
D G A7 D
And that leaves only me to blame, cause Momma tried
Dear old Daddy, rest his soul left my Mom a heavy load
She tried so very hard to feel his shoes
Don't remember the rest-anyone?
ending
r r
e---(14)-12------------------------------------------ pre bend note to 14
B-----------13-----(7)-5----------------------------- then release to 12
G------------------------5---------------------------
D---------------------------/7---7-------------------
A---------------------------/5---5-------------------
E----------------------------------------------------
Jimmy Adams
ADST Sites Maintenance Manager
Ft. Knox, Kentucky 40121
(502) 942-1092
How to play Mama Tried
Use the controls above to change the key and text size. Follow the highlighted chords while listening, then practice each section slowly before playing at the original tempo.
What is the starting chord?
The first identified chord is D. You can transpose without leaving the page.
Can I play it on guitar or keyboard?
Yes. The chord progression works on acoustic guitar, electric guitar and keyboard. Adapt the voicings to your instrument and level.