Detroit City

by Bobby Bare

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Lyrics

Last night I went to (G7)sleep in De troit (C)Cit y,

and I (G7)dreamed a bout the cot ton fields and (C)home.

I by (F)dreamed a bout my moth er, dear old (C)pa pa, sis ter and broth er, and I (D7)dreamed a bout the girl

who’s been (G7)wait ing for so long.

I wan na go (C)home,

I wan na go (F)home.

(C)Oh, how I (G7)wan

na go (C)home.

read be tween the (G7)lines.

I wan na go (C)home,

I wan na go (F)home.

(C)Oh, how I (G7)wan

na go (C)home.

Detroit City by Bobby Bare — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Detroit City” by Bobby Bare 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 120 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 "Detroit 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 "Detroit 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 "Detroit City" use?
Just 6 chords: Bb, C, C7, D7, F, G7. Take it one section at a time.