Build Me Up Buttercup

by The Foundations

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Lyrics

Why do you build me up But ter cup ba by, just to (F)let me down and (F)mess me a (G)round?

And then worst of all you (E)nev er call, ba by, when you (F)say you will.

But (F)I love you (G)still.

I need you

more than an y one, darl in’.

You (F)know that I have from the (Ddim)start.

So (C)build me up But ter cup, don’t break my (F)heart.

“I’ll be (C)o ver at ten,” you told me (Bb)time and a gain, but you’re late.

I wait ed (F)round and then I (C)run to the door, I can’t take an y more, it’s not you.

You let me (F)down a gain.

Ba by, ba by I (G7)try to find (Hey, hey, (Em7)hey!) a lit tle time and (A7)I’ll make you hap py.

(F)I’ll be home, I’ll be be (D7)side the phone wait ing for

(N.C.)you.

(You.)

Why do you build

Build Me Up Buttercup by The Foundations — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Build Me Up Buttercup” by The Foundations 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 C at 136 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 "Build Me Up Buttercup" 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 "Build Me Up Buttercup"?
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 "Build Me Up Buttercup" use?
Just 13 chords: A7, Bb, C, D7, Ddim, Dm, Dm7, E, +5 more. Take it one section at a time.
What other The Foundations songs work for kids?
Try "BUILD ME UP, BUTTERCUP", "BABY, NOW THAT I'VE FOUND YOU", "Build Me Up Buttercup". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.