“Man in the Mirror” is a timeless classic by the legendary Michael Jackson. Released in 1988 as part of his album “Bad,” this powerful song encourages self-reflection and positive change.
In this article, we’ll break down how to play it on the piano with a video guide, provide the lyrics, and also provide the chords and harmony for the song!
How to Play Man in the Mirror Piano Tutorial (Chords, Lyrics, Video)
Contents
Video Tutorial
The following video will guide you through how to play Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson.
Chords
Let’s start by learning the chords for “Man in the Mirror.” The song is originally in the key of G, and here are the chords you’ll need.
Verse
The opening chords for the verse:
G D/F# Em D C (add2)
Bridge
The bridge adds depth to the song:
Am Bm C Bm Am Bm C D
Chorus
The chorus for the chorus are:
G G/B C D - Db(b5) - D7(#5 #9)Key Change
The key change occurs in the bridge. Move up to the key of Ab:
Ab Ab/C Db Eb
Outro
Finish strong with the final chords:
Ab Eb/G Fm Eb Db (add2)Lyrics
I’m gonna make a change
For once in my life
It’s gonna feel real good
Gonna make a difference
Gonna make it right
As I, turn up the collar on
My favorite winter coat
This wind is blowin’ my mind
I see the kids in the street
With not enough to eat
Who am I, to be blind pretending not to see their needs?
A summer’s disregard
A broken bottle top
And a one man’s soul
They follow each other on the wind ya know
‘Cause they got nowhere to go
That’s why I want you to know
I’m starting with the man in the mirror
I’m asking him to change his ways
And no message could’ve been any clearer
If they wanna make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself and then make a change
I’ve been a victim of a selfish kind of love
It’s time that I realize
That there are some with no home
Not a nickel to loan
Could it be really me pretending that they’re not alone?
A willow deeply scarred
Somebody’s broken heart
And a washed out dream (washed out dream)
They follow the pattern of the wind, ya see
‘Cause they got no place to be
That’s why I’m starting with me
I’m starting with the man in the mirror (oh)
I’m asking him to change his ways (oh)
And no message could’ve been any clearer
If you wanna make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself and then make a change
I’m starting with the man in the mirror (oh)
I’m asking him to change his ways (oh)
And no message could’ve been any clearer
If you wanna make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself and then make that
Change
I’m starting with the man in the mirror (oh yeah)
I’m asking him to change his ways (better change)
No message could’ve been any clearer
(If you wanna make the world a better place)
(Take a look at yourself and then make the change)
you can’t
(Then you close your) close your, your mind
With the man in the mirror, oh yeah
I’m asking him to change his ways (better change)
No message could’ve been any clearer
If you wanna make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself and then make a change
gonna feel real good now
I’m gonna make a change
It’s gonna feel real good
Come on (change)
Just lift yourself
You know
You’ve got to stop it
Yourself (yeah)
I’ve got to make that change today
(Man in the mirror) you got to
You got to not let yourself brother
(Yeah) you know
(Make that change) I’ve got to get that man, that man
You’ve got to
You’ve got to move
Come on
Come on
You got to
Stand up, stand up (yeah, make that change)
Stand up
Stand up and lift
Yourself, now
(Man in the mirror)
Gonna make that change come on
(Man in the mirror)
You know it
You know it
You know it
You know
Change
Make that change
FAQ
1. What Key Is the Song In?
G Major
2. Who Played Guitar on the Track?
Dann Huff played the guitar on the song.
- Greg Phillinganes: Keyboards
- Glen Ballard, Randy Kerber: Synthesizers
- Background vocals: Siedah Garrett
3. What Style?
The song is a pop ballad/anthem, with gospel roots and influences.
Conclusion
“Man in the Mirror” is more than just a song; it’s a call to action. As you play it, reflect on how you can make a positive impact in your own life and the world around you. Let the music inspire change!
Note: For more detailed chord progressions and strumming patterns, refer to the official tab on Ultimate Guitar.
