C
F
G
G7
C7
Fm
A
D7
Am
E
E7
Dm
When I'm Sixty-Four
The Beatles
"When I'm Sixty-Four" is a classic Beatles tune from the album Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, known for its lighthearted feel and old-timey vibe. The song’s original arrangement features piano and clarinet, but it translates well to acoustic guitar.
Chords
The song uses common open chords: C, G7, F, Fm, A, D7, Am, E, E7, and G. Beginners should practice the F and Fm chords, as these can be challenging; F is a barre chord, while Fm requires a partial barre or careful finger placement.
Strumming Pattern
For a classic feel, use a steady, light swing rhythm. Try a simple down-down-up-up-down-up pattern. Keep the strumming relaxed and bouncy to match the song’s playful tempo.
Tips for Chord Transitions
**- Practice moving between C, G7, and F, as these are frequent.
- The Fm chord can be played by barring the first fret on the first three strings and placing your ring finger on the third fret of the D string.
- Switching from F to Fm is just a matter of lifting your middle finger.
- For C7, add your pinky to the third fret of the G string while holding C.**
General Advice
Play slowly at first, focusing on smooth transitions. Use a capo if you wish to match the original key and your vocal range. Enjoy the song’s cheerful character and have fun with its rhythmic feel!
Intro
C C F G C
Verse 1C When I get old and losing my hair, many years fromG7 now
Will you still be sending me a Valentine, birthday greetingsC bottle of wine
If I'd been out till quarter to three,C7 would you lock theF door?
Will you stillFm need me,C will you stillA feed me,D7 when I'mG sixty-C four?
Bridge 1Am You'll be olderE tooE7
Am And if youDm say the word,F I couldG stay withC you
Verse 2C I could be handy mending a fuse, when your lights haveG7 gone
You can knit a sweater by the fireside, Sunday morningsC go for a ride
Doing the garden digging the weeds,C7 who could ask forF more?
Will you stillFm need me,C will you stillA feed me,D7 when I'mG sixty-C four?
Bridge 2Am Every summer we can rent a cottage in the Isle ofG Wight if it's not tooAm dear
We shall scrimp andE saveE7
Am GrandchildrenDm on your knee:F Vera,G Chuck, andC Dave
Verse 3C Send me a postcard drop me a line, stating point ofG7 view
Indicate precisely what you mean to say, yours sincerelyC wasting away
Give me your answer, fill in a form,C7 mine for everF more
Will you stillFm need me,C will you stillA feed me,D7 when I'mG sixty-C four?
OutroC C F G C