Hard Times

· by Ray Charles

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Lyrics

(CN.C.)My moth er (Bb7)told me

’fore she passed a way,

said, “Son, when I’m gone, ey

don’t for get to (Cm7)pray, (Bdim)’cause there’ll be (Bdim7)hard times,

hard (D)times.

(Db)Who (C)knows (Bb)bet ter than (C7)I?”

Well, I soon found out

just what she meant

when I had to pawn my clothes row

just to pay the (Cm7)rent.

(B)Talk in’ ’bout (Bdim7)hard times,

hard (D)times.

(Db)Who (C)knows (Bb)bet ter than (F)I?

(CN.C.)I had a (Bb7)wom an

who was al ways ’round,

but when lost my mon ey

then she put me (Cm7)down.

(Bdim)Talk in’ ’bout (Bdim7)hard times,

hard (D)times.

(Db)Who (C)knows (Bb)bet ter than (C7)I?

Yeah, I soon oh, yeah,

one of these days

there’ll I be to no more sor row

when I pass a (Cm7)way.

(B)Then no more (Bdim7)hard times,

hard (D)times.

(Db)Who (C)knows (Bb)bet ter than (F)I?

(CN.C.)I had a (Bdim7)I?

Hard Times by Ray Charles — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Hard Times” by Ray Charles 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 Bb at 80 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 "Hard Times" 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 "Hard Times"?: 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.
What other Ray Charles songs work for kids?: Try "I GOT A WOMAN", "GEORGIA ON MY MIND", "YOU DON'T KNOW ME". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.