On Your Way Down

by Elvis Costello & Allen Toussaint

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Lyrics

Sun rise,

sun set.

Since the be gin ning,

it has n’t changed yet.

Peo ple fly high,

be gin to lose sight.

You can’t see ver y clear ly

when you’re in flight.

It’s high (D7)time

that you found

the same (F7)peo ple you mis use on your way up, you might (E)meet up

on your way down.

Vin tage wines rise

from the year six ty two;

it’s your thing, it’s your thing, and sets and shines it the pleas es you.

You got to frown

when you cross ing town.

I You think it’s an hon like or

a just to have you a round.

It’s high (D7)time

that you found

the same (F7)peo ple you mis use on your way up, you might (E)meet up

on your way down.

Think the sun rise

from and sets for you, two;

but the same sun your rise and sets and shines for the poor folks, too.

You I don’t mind

when you turn ing ’round;

I my self would e ven like or

a lit tle high er ground.

round.

It’s high (D7)time

that you found

the same (F7)peo ple you walk on on your way up, you might (E)meet up

on your way down.

Think the

On Your Way Down by Elvis Costello & Allen Toussaint — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “On Your Way Down by Elvis Costello & Allen Toussaint 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 120 BPM, a medium-difficulty arrangement — try slowing the tempo down using the BPM control.

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 "On Your Way Down" 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 "On Your Way Down"?
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 "On Your Way Down" use?
Just 8 chords: A, A7, C, C7, D7, D9, E7, F7. Take it one section at a time.
What other Elvis Costello & Allen Toussaint songs work for kids?
Try "ALL THESE THINGS". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.