Most fans know Toby Keith for his patriotic anthems, his powerful stage presence, and his unwavering pride in America. But behind the tough image was a man who quietly carried one of the deepest griefs of his life — the death of his father, Hubert Keith Covel.
In 2001, just months before the 9/11 attacks that would forever change his music, Toby lost his father in a tragic car accident. Hubert was a veteran, a working man, and Toby’s personal hero. The loss devastated him, but Toby did what he always did — he turned to music.
He wrote a deeply personal song titled “Cried for Mama” — not for the radio, not for the charts, not even for the fans. It was a song he wrote in solitude, intended for his family only. The lyrics talk about seeing your mother cry for the first time, feeling helpless, and wishing you could carry their pain.
The song was never performed live. It was never released on any major album. Instead, it lived quietly as a recording shared among family members — something Toby wanted his children and grandchildren to have. A private goodbye. A personal memory.
It wasn’t until after his passing in 2024 that fans began hearing whispers about this hidden track. One of his close collaborators confirmed its existence, calling it “Toby’s most honest work — too sacred for the stage.”
And maybe that’s the beauty of it. Not every song is meant for the spotlight. Some are meant to stay where they started — in the heart.
Merle Haggard, Toby Keith, Willie Nelson – Mama Tried
Lyrics
The first thing I remember knowing,
Was a lonesome whistle blowing,
And a young un’s dream of growing up to ride,
On a freight train leaving town,
Not knowing where I’m bound,
No-one could change my mind but Mama tried.
One and only rebel child,
From a family, meek and mild,
My Mama seemed to know what lay in store.
Despite my Sunday learning,
Towards the bad, I kept turning.
‘Til Mama couldn’t hold me anymore.
And I turned twenty-one in prion doing life without parole.
No-one could steer me right but Mama tried, Mama tried.
Mama tried to raise me better, but her pleading, I denied.
That leaves only me to blame ’cause Mama tried.
Dear old Daddy, rest his soul,
Left my Mom a heavy load,
She tried so very hard to fill his shoes.
Working hours without rest,
Wanted me to have the best.
She tried to raise me right but I refused.
I turned twenty-one in prison doing life without parole.
No-one could steer me right but Mama tried, Mama tried,
Mama tried to raise me better, but her pleading, I denied.
That leaves only me to blame ’cause Mama tried.