Hey, That's No Way To Say Goodbye

by Leonard Cohen

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Lyrics

I (C)loved you in the morn ing, our kiss es deep and warm,

your (Am)hair up on the pil low like a sleep y gold en storm.

Yes, man y loved be fore us, I know that we are not new.

In (C)cit y and in for est, they smiled like me and you.

But (Am)now it’s come to dis tanc es and both of us must try.

Your (F)eyes are soft with sor row.

Hey, that’s

no way

to say

good (G)bye.

I’m not (C)loved you in the morn ing, our kiss es deep and warm,

your (Am)hair up on the pil low like a sleep y gold en storm.

Yes, man y loved be fore us, I know that we are not new.

In (C)cit y and in for est, they smiled like me and you.

But (Am)now it’s come to dis tanc es and both of us must try.

Your (F)eyes are soft with sor row.

Hey, that’s

no way

to say

good (G)bye.

I’m I

Hey, That's No Way To Say Goodbye by Leonard Cohen — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Hey, That's No Way To Say Goodbye” by Leonard Cohen 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 70 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 "Hey, That's No Way To Say Goodbye" 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 "Hey, That's No Way To Say Goodbye"?
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 Leonard Cohen songs work for kids?
Try "A THOUSAND KISSES DEEP", "BIRD ON THE WIRE", "HALLELUJAH". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.