Mama
B.J. Thomas & Bj Thomas Lyrics


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Who's the one who tied your shoe when you were young
And knew just when to come and see what you had done?
Mama, oh mama
And who's the one who patched your eye and told you not to cry
'cause he was too big for you to try?
Mama, ma-a-ma

And who's the one you didn't need to plead
To give her time to the little league?
It was mama, oh, ma-a-a-ma-a-a
And who's the one who gave her shoulder
When you told her your first love was over she'd met someone older
Mama, mama

It was mama, my ma-a-a-ma-a-a

Ma-a-ma, oh ma-a-ma

Who's the one who taught you obligation then dedication result graduation?
Mama, mama
And who's the one who's shown the friends you've known
A home away from home when they were tired and all alone?
Mama, mama

And who's the one who held a tear inside
When you introduced your future bride?
And who's the one who didn't mean to cry
As you walked down the aisle, the tears you saw her smile
Mama, oh, mama




Ma-a-m-a-a, my ma-a-ma-a
It was ma-a-m-a-a

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to B.J. Thomas's song "Mama" are a heartfelt tribute to the singer's mother, as he reflects on her unwavering love and support throughout his life. The first verse recalls childhood memories of his mother tying his shoes and checking up on him, even in times when he may have made mistakes. The second verse acknowledges how his mother was always there for him, even as he grew older – whether it was attending his little league games, supporting him through heartbreak, or helping him with his studies. The final verse speaks to the sacrifices his mother made for him, including holding back tears on his wedding day. Throughout the song, the chorus of "Mama, oh mama" serves as a reminder of the central figure in his life who provided him with love and guidance.


The lyrics to "Mama" reflect a universal sentiment of gratitude towards mothers and the important role they play in their children's lives. The imagery of a mother tying a child's shoes, patching up an injury, and offering a shoulder to cry on are all relatable experiences that people can connect with. Furthermore, the song evokes a sense of nostalgia and a longing for the past, as the singer reflects on moments from his childhood and the special bond he shared with his mother. Overall, the lyrics to "Mama" are a touching tribute to the unconditional love and support of a mother.


Line by Line Meaning

Who's the one who tied your shoe when you were young
As a child, you had someone who devoted many moments to attend to you, even the little things such as tying your shoes.


And knew just when to come and see what you had done?
That same person could sense when to check in on you, and took a genuine interest in your life.


Mama, oh mama
That person, of course, is your loving mother who you can always depend on.


And who's the one who patched your eye and told you not to cry 'cause he was too big for you to try?
When you faced challenges growing up, your mother was there to comfort you and remind you that it was okay to cry and to seek help to overcome obstacles.


Mama, ma-a-ma
Your mother, who embodies all that is comfort, warmth, and safety.


And who's the one you didn't need to plead to give her time to the little league?
Your mother was happy to see you grow and develop, and was always supportive of your passions and interests even if it meant taking time out of her busy schedule.


It was mama, oh, ma-a-a-ma-a-a
Your mother who embodies selflessness, love, and giving.


And who's the one who gave her shoulder when you told her your first love was over she'd met someone older?
As you grow up, you experience different things in life, and your mother was always there to lend support and offer her shoulder to cry on during heartbreaks.


Mama, mama
Through thick and thin, it's your mother who is always there for you.


It was mama, my ma-a-a-ma-a-a
Your mother, who is your biggest supporter, your confidant, your rock.


Who's the one who taught you obligation then dedication result graduation?
Your mother, who instilled in you the importance of hard work, dedication, and responsibility, which ultimately led to academic success and achievement.


And who's the one who's shown the friends you've known a home away from home when they were tired and all alone?
Your mother, who not only cares for you, but also your friends, showing them warmth and hospitality that make them feel at home.


And who's the one who held a tear inside when you introduced your future bride?
As you move forward into adulthood, your mother still holds a special place in her heart for you, and may shed a tear on special occasions when she is reminded of just how much you've grown.


And who's the one who didn't mean to cry as you walked down the aisle, the tears you saw her smile?
Even as you walk down the aisle, your mother remains your biggest supporter, albeit with a heavy heart, watching her child embark on a new chapter in life.


Mama, oh, mama
Through every stage of life, it's your mother who stands by you, providing love, guidance, and support.


Ma-a-m-a-a, my ma-a-ma-a
Your mother, who will forever hold a special place in your heart, and in whose eyes, you will always be her child.




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: MARK JAMES

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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