Merle Haggard – Mama Tried
“Mama Tried” is a song written and recorded by American country music singer-songwriter Merle Haggard. It was released in 1968 as the second single from his album of the same name. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and number 44 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “Mama Tried” has become one of Haggard’s most popular and enduring songs, and it has been covered by many artists, including Willie Nelson, Alan Jackson, and Brad Paisley.
Background and composition
“Mama Tried” was written by Merle Haggard in 1968. The song is a semi-autobiographical account of Haggard’s early life and his struggles with the law. The song’s lyrics are simple, yet powerful, and they tell the story of a young man who is trying to find his way in the world.
Recording and production
“Mama Tried” was recorded at the Capitol Records Studio in Hollywood, California in 1968. The song was produced by Ken Nelson.
The recording features Haggard on vocals accompanied by a simple country music arrangement. Haggard’s vocals are warm and expressive, and they perfectly convey the emotion of the song.
Video
Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written and recorded by Merle Haggard in 1968.
- The song is a semi-autobiographical account of Haggard’s early life and his struggles with the law.
- The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and number 44 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- “Mama Tried” has been covered by many artists, including Willie Nelson, Alan Jackson, and Brad Paisley.