There’s something about old-time country and folk songs that just reach into the soul and take hold of a person. “Mother, The Queen of My Heart” is one of those songs—a heartfelt ballad that pays tribute to a mother’s unconditional love and sacrifice. If you’ve ever had a song stir up bittersweet memories, this one will do it.
At its core, this song tells the story of a wayward son who strays from the path his mother wished for him, only to find himself looking back with deep regret. The lyrics capture that feeling of nostalgia and remorse—of realizing too late just how much love and wisdom was wrapped up in a mother’s gentle guidance. It’s the kind of song that makes you stop and reflect, especially if you’ve ever had someone in your life who tried to steer you right when you weren’t quite ready to listen.
The melody has that classic, aching country waltz feel—slow, steady, and brimming with emotion. It’s the kind of tune that lingers long after the music stops, carrying with it a sense of longing and reverence. Whether you grew up on the old cowboy songs or you’re just discovering these classic narratives, “Mother, The Queen of My Heart” is a song that leaves an impression.
It’s a reminder that while we may wander far and wide, a mother’s love is an anchor—something steady and true, even when the rest of life feels uncertain. And sometimes, the biggest lesson comes when we look back and realize just how much she really meant to us
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Lyrics
I had a home out in Texas,
Down where the blue bonnet’s grew.
I had the kindest old mother;
How happy we were just we two.
Till one day the angels’ called her,
That debt we all have to pay.
She called me close to hr bedside,
These last few words to say.
“Son, don’t start drinking and gambling,
Promise you’ll always go straight. ”
Ten years have passed since that parting,
That promise I’ve broke, I must say.
I started gambling for pastime,
At last I was just like them all.
I bet my clothes and my money, fall.
One night I bet all my money,
Nothing was left to be seen.
All that I needed to break them was one card,
And that was a queen.
The cards were dealt all ’round the table,
Each man took a card on the draw.
I drew the one that would beat them;
I turned it and here’s wat I saw.
I saw my mother’s picture,
And somehow she seemed to say.
“Son, you have broken your promise, ”
So I tossed the cards away.
My winnings I gave to a newsboy,
I knew I was wrong from the start.
And I’ll ne’er forget that promise,
To Mother, the queen of my heart.