Don't Worry, Be Happy

by Bobby McFerrin

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Lyrics

Ain’t got no Here’s a lit tle song I wrote, you (Dm)might want to sing it note for note.

but Don’t (F)wor ry,

be (C)hap py.

The (C)land In ev ’ry life we have some trou ble; but when you wor ry you make it dou ble.

Don’t (F)wor ry,

be (F)hap py.

Ain’t got no place a to lay song your head, you (Dm)some bo dy came and took your bed.

but Don’t (F)wor ry,

be (C)hap py.

’Cos (C)when In lord ’ry say your rent is late,

he may will have ry to li ti gate.

So Don’t (F)wor ry,

be (F)hap py.

Don't Worry, Be Happy by Bobby McFerrin — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Don't Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin 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 138 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 "Don't Worry, Be Happy" 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 "Don't Worry, Be Happy"?
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 "Don't Worry, Be Happy" use?
Just 4 chords: Am, C, Dm, F. Few enough that a child can recognize them quickly.
What other Bobby McFerrin songs work for kids?
Try "Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo (The Magic Song)", "Don't Worry, Be Happy". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.