Mama Tried cover

Mama Tried

Merle Haggard · 1968

31 min · 12 tracks · country

A heartfelt blend of traditional country sounds with raw storytelling and emotional depth.

Why this album works

'Mama Tried' reached No. 1 on the Billboard Country Albums chart, showcasing Haggard's songwriting prowess and resonating with audiences through its themes of regret and familial love. The title track became one of his signature songs, influencing countless artists and solidifying his legacy within the outlaw country movement.
Career context
Released in January 1968, 'Mama Tried' was Merle Haggard's third studio album, coming shortly after his breakthrough with 'Branded Man' in 1967. This album solidified Haggard's role as a leading voice in the country genre during a transformative era for American music.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Mama Tried Standout 2:12
  • 2 Green Green Grass of Home 3:14
  • 3 Little Ole Wine Drinker Me 2:38
  • 4 In the Good Old Days (When Times Were Bad) Standout 2:45
  • 5 I Could Have Gone Right 2:33
  • 6 I’ll Always Know 2:22
  • 7 The Sunny Side of My Life 2:11
  • 8 Teach Me to Forget 3:15
  • 9 Folsom Prison Blues Standout 2:47
  • 10 Run ’Em Off 2:51
  • 11 You’ll Never Love Me Now 2:45
  • 12 Too Many Bridges to Cross Over 2:24

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata