Old Flames

by Dolly Parton

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Lyrics

(C)Down town to night I saw an old friend; some (F)one who

I re (G7)I used to take com fort from long be fore I met (C)you.

Then I I caught a spark from his (C7)eyes of for got ten de (F)sire.

With a (G7)word, or a touch I could have re kin dled the (C)fire.

An old

flame can’t hold a can dle to (F)you.

(G7)No

one can light up the night like you (C)do.

Flick er ing em bers of (C7)love, I’ve known one or (F)two;

but (G7)old

flames

can’t hold a can dle to (C)you.

(C)Some times at night I think of old lov ers (F)I’ve known.

I re (G7)mem ber how hold ing them helped me not feel so a (C)lone.

Then I feel you be side me and (C7)e ven their mem ’ries are (F)gone,

like a (G7)stars in the night, I lost in the sweet light of (C)dawn.

An old flame

can’t hold a can dle to (F)you.

(G7)No one can light up the night like you (C)do.

Flick er ing em bers of (C7)love, I’ve known one or (F)two;

but (G7)old flames

can’t hold a can dle to (C)you.

(C)you.

(G)Old flames

can’t hold a can dle to (C)you.

Old Flames by Dolly Parton — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “Old Flames by Dolly Parton 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 75 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 "Old Flames" 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 "Old Flames"?
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 "Old Flames" use?
Just 6 chords: C, C7, F, Fm, G, G7. Take it one section at a time.
What other Dolly Parton songs work for kids?
Try "NINE TO FIVE", "HE'S EVERYTHING", "HERE YOU COME AGAIN". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.