Dark Hollow

by Grateful Dead

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Lyrics

I’d rath er be

in (E)some

dark (A)hol low

where the sun

don’t (D)ev

er shine

than to be

home a lone

big (D)know in’ that you’re gone,

would a (A)cause me to (E)lose

my mind.

So, blow

your (E)whis

tle, (A)freight train.

Take me far

on (D)down

the (A)track.

I’m go in’ a way,

I’m (D)leav in’ to day.

I’m (A)go in’ but I (E)ain’t com in’ back.

I’d rath er be

in (E)some

dark (A)hol low

where the sun

don’t (D)ev

er shine

than to be

home in some

big (D)cit y that you’re gone,

in a (A)small room with (E)you

on my

So, blow

your (E)whis

tle, (A)freight train.

Take me far

on (D)down

the (A)track.

I’m go in’ a way,

I’m (D)leav in’ to day.

I’m (A)go in’ but I (E)ain’t com in’ back.

I’d rath er

So,

Dark Hollow by Grateful Dead — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Dark Hollow” by Grateful Dead 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 A at 120 BPM, a medium-difficulty arrangement — try slowing the tempo down using the BPM control.

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 "Dark Hollow" 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 "Dark Hollow"?
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 "Dark Hollow" use?
Just 4 chords: A, A9, D, E. Few enough that a child can recognize them quickly.
What other Grateful Dead songs work for kids?
Try "UNCLE JOHN'S BAND", "THE MUSIC NEVER STOPPED", "SUGAR MAGNOLIA". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.