Candle On The Water

by Helen Reddy

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Lyrics

I’ll be your (Dm)can dle (G7)on the (F)wa ter,

my love for (Am)you will (F)al ways (Bb)burn.

I (E)know you’re (Am)lost and (C7)drift ing, (F)but the clouds are (C)lift ing.

(F)Don’t give (G7)up; you (C)have some where to (Dm7)turn.

I’ll be your (Dm)can dle (G7)on the (F)wa ter,

’til ev ’ry (Am)wave is (F)warm and (Bb)bright.

My (E)soul is (Am)there be (C7)side you, (F)let this can dle (C)guide you; (F)soon you’ll (G7)see a (C)gold en stream of (Dm7)turn.

(Dm7)light.

A cold and (C)friend less (C7)tide has (Fsus)found

(F)you,

don’t let the (C)storm y (C7)dark ness (F)pull (Gm7)you (F)down.

I’ll paint a (D7)ray of hope a (G)round

you,

(F)cir cling in the (Em)air

(F)light ed by a (Bb6/9)prayer.

I’ll be your (Dm)can dle (G7)on the (F)wa ter,

this flame in (Am)side of (F)me will (Bb)grow.

Keep (E)hold ing (Am)on, you’ll (C7)make it, (F)here’s my hand so (C)take it.

(F)Look for me (G7)reach ing out to (C)show (C7)as (F)sure as (Fm)riv ers (C)flow,

I’ll nev er (G7)let you (C)go,

I’ll nev er (G7)let you (C)go,

I’ll nev er (G7)let you (C)go.

Candle On The Water by Helen Reddy — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Candle On The Water” by Helen Reddy 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 90 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 "Candle On The Water" 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 "Candle On The Water"?
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 "Candle On The Water" use?
Just 19 chords: Am, Am7, Bb, Bb6, C, C7, D7, Dm, +11 more. Take it one section at a time.
What other Helen Reddy songs work for kids?
Try "YOU AND ME AGAINST THE WORLD", "AIN'T NO WAY TO TREAT A LADY", "I AM WOMAN". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.