D G D G
The first thing I remember knowin' was a lonesome whistle blowin',
D G A7
And a youngun's dream of growin' up to ride,
D G D G
On a freight train leavin' town, not knowin' where I'm bound.
D A7 D
And no one could change my mind but Momma Tried.
D G D G
One and only Rebel child from a fam'ly meek and mild
D G A7
My momma seemed to to know what lay in store,
D G D G
'Spite all my Sunday learnin' towards the bad I kept on turnin',
D A7 D
'Til momma couldn't hold me anymore.
Chorus
N.C. D G D
And I turned twenty-one in prison doin' life without parole,
Bm A7
No one could steer me right but Mamma Tried, Momma Tried
D G D
Momma Tried to raise me better but her pleading I denied
A7 D
And that leaves only me to blame, cause Momma Tried
Verse 3:
D G D G
Dear ole' daddy, rest his soul left my mom a heavy load,
D G A7
She tried so very hard to feel his shoes,
D G D G
Workin' hours without rest, wanted me to have the best
D G A7
She tried to raise me right but I refused.
Chorus
How to play "Momma Tried" by Merle Haggard on guitar
Intro & Verse Chord Progression:
- Start with D major and alternate with G major, creating the classic
country feel that drives the narrative forward.
- Incorporate A7 at key lyrical points to add a sense of resolution
and conclusion to each phrase.
Playing the Chords:
- D major: Index on 2nd fret G, ring on 3rd fret B, and middle on 2nd fret high E.
- G major: Index on 2nd fret A, middle on 3rd fret low E, and ring on 3rd fret high E.
- A7: Index on 2nd fret D and middle on 2nd fret B.
Chorus Dynamics:
- Transition into the chorus with a strong shift to Bm, adding emotional depth.
- Bm: Barre the 2nd fret from A to high E, place middle on 3rd fret B,
ring on 4th fret D, and pinky on 4th fret G.
Strumming Pattern:
- Utilize a steady strumming pattern that emphasizes downstrokes to keep
the rhythm driving and consistent, typical of traditional country music.
Common Mistakes:
- Be cautious of the timing when transitioning from D to G, ensuring
each chord is given its full value to maintain the song's rhythm.
- Ensure the A7 chord is played clearly, as it's crucial for the song's
melodic hooks.
Solo Sections:
- Maintain the chord progression of the verse or chorus, allowing for
simple lead lines or fill-ins that match the song’s themes.
Outro:
- Conclude with the main chord progression, subtly slowing down to end
on a reflective note.
Song's Theme:
- The lyrics tell a story of rebellion and regret, emphasizing the
influence of parental guidance and the consequences of personal choices.
Regular practice of these chord transitions and maintaining the rhythm
will help you effectively deliver the heartfelt narrative of "Momma Tried."
