Madman Across The Water

by Elton John

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Lyrics

I can (Am)see

ver y (F)well.

There’s a (C)boat on the reef with a (D)bro ken back,

and I can (F)see it (G)ver y (Am)well.

(D)There’s a (Am)joke

and I (G)know it ver y (F)well.

It’s one of those that I told you (D)long a go.

Take my (F)word, I’m a (G)mad man, don’t (Am)you know?

(D)Once a (Am)fool

had a (G)good part in the (F)play.

If it’s so, would I still be (D)here to day?

It’s quite pe (F)cu liar in a (G)fun ny sort of (Am)way.

They think it’s (F)ver y fun ny (G)ev ’ry thing I (Am)say.

Get a load of (G)him, he’s so in (Esus)sane.

You bet ter get your (Am)coat, (Cmaj7)dear,

it (F)looks (G)like (A)rain.

We’ll come a (Dm)gain next Thurs day af ter noon.

The in laws (Dm)hope they’ll see you ver y soon.

But is it in your con science that you’re af ter

an oth er glimpse of the (Cmaj7)mad man a (Dm)cross (F6)the (G)wa (Am)ter?

(Am)you know?

The (F)ground’s a long way (G)down, but I need more.

Is the night mare black or are the win dows paint ed?

Will they come a (Am)gain (Cmaj7)next (Dm)week?

Can my (F)mind (G)real ly take it?

We’ll come a (Dm7)gain next Thurs day af ter noon.

The in laws (Dm)hope they’ll see you ver y soon.

But is it in your con science that you’re af ter

an oth er glimpse of the (Cmaj7)mad man a (Dm)cross (F6)the (G)wa (Am)ter?

Madman Across The Water by Elton John — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Madman Across The Water” by Elton John 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 A at 128 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 "Madman Across The Water" 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 "Madman Across The Water"?
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 "Madman Across The Water" use?
Just 16 chords: A, Am, Am7, Am9, Asus2, C, Cmaj7, D, +8 more. Take it one section at a time.
What other Elton John songs work for kids?
Try "SOMEONE SAVED MY LIFE TONIGHT", "CROCODILE ROCK", "BURN DOWN THE MISSION". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.