I'm An Old Cowhand (From The Rio Grande)

by Johnny Mercer

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Lyrics

I’m an old cow (Dm)hand

from the Ri o (C)Grande,

but my legs ain’t (Dm)bowed

and my cheeks ain’t (C)tanned.

I’m a (Am)cow boy who nev er (Em)saw a cow, nev er (Am)roped a steer ’cause I (Em)don’t know how, and I (Am)sho’ ain’t fix in’ to (Em)start in now.

(Dm)Yip pee i (G)o ki (C)ay,

(Dm)yip pee i (G)o ki (C)ay.

I'm An Old Cowhand (From The Rio Grande) by Johnny Mercer — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “I'm An Old Cowhand (From The Rio Grande)” by Johnny Mercer 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 110 BPM, a slightly more challenging arrangement — practice each phrase slowly first.

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.

Same song, different levels

Very Easyarrangement

Frequently asked questions

Is "I'm An Old Cowhand (From The Rio Grande)" 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 "I'm An Old Cowhand (From The Rio Grande)"?
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.