How Long, How Long Blues

by Leroy Carr

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Lyrics

How long,

how long

has that (F)eve nin’ train been (Fm)gone?

How long,

how long,

ba by, how (C)long?

Heard the whis tle blow in’.

Could n’t see no (C7)train.

Way down in (F)my heart I had an ach in’ (Fm)pain.

How long,

how long,

ba by, how (C)long?

I’m sad and lone ly

all the whole day (C7)through.

Why don’t you (F)write me

and give me the (Fm)news?

You have (C)left me,

left me (G9)sing in’

those how long (C)blues.

How long

how long

has that (F)eve nin’ train been (Fm)gone?

How long,

how long,

ba by, how (C)long?

Heard the whis tle blow in’.

Could n’t see no (C7)train.

Way down in (F)my heart I had an ach in’ (Fm)pain.

How long,

how long,

ba by, how (C)long?

I’m sad and lone ly

all the whole day (C7)through.

Why don’t you (F)write me

and give me the (Fm)news?

You have (C)left me,

left me (G9)sing in’

those how long (C)blues.

How long (C)blues.

How Long, How Long Blues by Leroy Carr — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “How Long, How Long Blues” by Leroy Carr 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 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 "How Long, How Long Blues" 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 "How Long, How Long Blues"?
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.