Basket Case

by Sara Bareilles

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Lyrics

I (A)don’t want to

(G)talk a bout it to you.

I’m not an o pen book that you can ri fle through,

the (A)cold, hard truth that you’ll (Bm7)see right to.

I’m just a (D)bas ket case with out you.

He’s not a (A)mag ic man and or a (G)per fect fit,

but had a stead y hand and I got used to it.

And a (A)glass cage heart and in (Bm7)vit ed me in,

and now I’m just a (D)bas ket case with out him.

You’re beg ging for the (G)truth,

so I’m say ing it to you.

I’ve been sav ing your place

and what (G)good does it do?

Now I’m just a (D)bas ket case.

Now I’m just a (D)bas ket case.

I (A)don’t say much and it ’ll (G)stay that way.

You got a steel train touch and I’m just a you lay.

So I’ll (A)stay right here and in (Bm7)un der neath you.

and now I’m just a (D)bas ket case that’s what do.

You’re beg ging for the (G)truth,

so I’m say ing it to you.

I’ve been sav ing your place

and what (G)good does it do?

Now I’m just a (D)bas ket case.

Now I’m just a (D)bas ket case.

I

Won’t some bod y come on in

and tug at my seams.

Oh, send your (A)ar mies in

of rob bers and thieves to steal the state I’m (G)in.

I don’t

want it an y more.

Now I’m just a (D)bas ket case.

Now I’m a just (D)bas ket case.

Now I’m just a (D)bas ket case.

Basket Case by Sara Bareilles — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Basket Case” by Sara Bareilles 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 D at 85 BPM, a comfortable easy-level arrangement perfect for first-time learners.

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 "Basket Case" 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 "Basket Case"?
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 "Basket Case" use?
Just 6 chords: A, Bm7, D, Em7, G, Gm. Take it one section at a time.
What other Sara Bareilles songs work for kids?
Try "Vegas", "Hold My Heart", "1000 TIMES". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.