Big City

by Merle Haggard

Loading song
Fetching song
1
—
Play in Full ModesMore Songs for Kids
Lyrics

I’m tired in’ of this dirt (F7)y old was cit y,

en n’t (F)tire ly too much work

and nev er e nough play.

And I’m tired of these dirt (F7)y old got side walks;

think I’ll walk off my (C7)stead y job to day.

Turn me loose, set me free,

(Bb)some where in the mid dle of

Mon (F)tan a,

and gim me all

I’ve got com in’ to (C)me.

And (F)keep your re tire ment and your so called

so cial se (F)cur i ty.

Big cit y turn me (C7)loose and set me free.

Been work in’ ev ’ry day (F7)since I was twen ty,

have n’t (F)got a thing to show

for an y thing I’ve done.

There’s folks who nev er work (F7)and they’ve got plen ty;

think it’s time some guys (C7)like me had some fun.

Turn me loose, set me free,

(Bb)some where in the mid dle of

Mon (F)tan a,

and gim me all

I’ve got com in’ to (C)me.

And (F)keep your re tire ment and your so called

so cial se (F)cur i ty.

Big cit y turn me (C7)loose and set me free.

Been

Big City by Merle Haggard — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Big City” by Merle Haggard 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 112 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 "Big City" 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 "Big City"?
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 "Big City" use?
Just 5 chords: Bb, C, C7, F, F7. Take it one section at a time.
What other Merle Haggard songs work for kids?
Try "IF WE MAKE IT THROUGH DECEMBER", "OKIE FROM MUSKOGEE", "Okie From Muskogee". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.