Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing

by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

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Beginner · playingOne hand, slowEasyBoth hands
Lyrics

Ain’t noth ing like the (Fsus)real (F)thing, ba by.

Ain’t noth ing like the (Gm7)real (C7sus)thing.

Ain’t noth ing like the (Fsus)real (F)thing, ba by.

Ain’t noth ing like the (Gm7)real (C7sus)thing.

I’ve got your (Dm)pic ture hang in’ (Gm)on the wall, but (Bb)it can’t see or (Am)come to me when I (Dm)call your name.

I (F7)re al ize it’s (Bb)just a (F)pic ture (Bb)in a frame.

I read your (F)let ters when (Gm)you’re not near, but (Bb)they don’t move me and (A7)they don’t groove me like (Dm)when I hear (F7)your sweet voice (Bb)whis per ing (F)in my ear.

(Bb)Don’t you know,

ain’t noth ing like the (Fsus)real (F)thing, ba by.

Ain’t noth ing like the (Gm7)real (C7sus)thing.

I play my (F)game, a (Gm)fan ta sy.

(Bb)I pre tend, but (A7)I know in re (Dm)al i ty I (F7)need the shel ter (Bb)of your arms to (F)com fort me.

No oth er (Am)sound is (A7)quite the same as your (Dm)name.

No (F7)touch can do half as (Bb)much

to make me feel (C)bet ter.

(Gm)So, let’s stay to geth er.

I read your (Gm7)real (C7sus)thing.

Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing” by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell in our color-coded kid songbook view — every note is colored by pitch (red C, orange D, yellow E, green F, blue G, purple A, pink B) and the lyrics sit directly under each note, so children can sing along while they play. The song is in the key of Bb at 120 BPM, a slightly more challenging arrangement — practice each phrase slowly first.

Tips for parents & teachers

  • Start at 50% tempo using the BPM control. Speed up only when your child can play through without stopping.
  • Turn on the metronome from the top bar to build steady rhythm.
  • Use the segmented OFF / C / 1 button to toggle note labels on the staff and keys — kids learn note names faster with letters showing.
  • Tap a measure number on the timeline to jump to a specific section for repeat practice.

Frequently asked questions

Is "Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing" good for a child learning piano?
Yes — this color-coded arrangement is designed for ages 4-12. Each note is colored by pitch so kids match colors to keys, no music reading required. Lyrics sit under every note for sing-along play.
What age can start with "Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing"?
Children as young as 4 can follow the color-coded notes. By age 6-7 most kids can play through the song themselves with light guidance. Parent help is recommended for the first few sessions.
Do we need a piano teacher to use this?
No — the color-coded format is designed to be self-explanatory. Parents with no music background can supervise. Teachers can also use it as an introductory lesson tool.
Can we print the sheet music?
Yes — tap "Download Sheet Music" above for a free printable PDF with the same color-coded notes that appear on screen.
How many chords does "Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing" use?
Just 11 chords: A7, Am, Bb, C7, Cdim, Dm, F, F7, +3 more. Take it one section at a time.
What other Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell songs work for kids?
Try "AIN'T NO MOUNTAIN HIGH ENOUGH", "AIN'T NOTHING LIKE THE REAL THING", "YOUR PRECIOUS LOVE". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.