Needless To Say (lyrics, chords) - Sabrina Carpenter

Hi, I am Rita. I transcribe sheet music since 2007. All my sheet music are accurate but simple, beginner-level transcriptions with lyrics (singing is good for mental health). Request any popular song in any genre and language.

"Needless To Say"

The track is transcribed in the original key, D Flat Major. The major key is strange because the song should be sad.

The harmony is atonal and consists of one chord D♭ with different bass notes: G♭ E♭ F♭ D♭. The lack of sense of progression diminishes the aesthetic value of the bonus track by a lot, but I never expect much sophistication from Jack Antonoff. He clearly started using AI in arrengement some time ago.

The vocals are typed using an optional treble clef with the numeral 8 below it 𝄠 in brackets (a suboctave clef). Sabrina sings one octave lower than written but you can play piano at written pitches (higher than Sabrina sings).

I doubled note values to make sightreading easier for beginners. The track isn't recorded in the 2/2 time. 

"Needless To Say" is composed with a straight rhythm in common time.

Accent strong beats but do it softly. 

Left Hand

You can omit playing arpeggios in the left hand if you are complete beginner, play only bass notes.

The left-hand texture is thick and makes great use of the bass register.

In the "Needless To Say" guitar plays accompaniment. While guitar and piano are distinct instruments with different techniques, you can transfer strumming patterns from guitar to piano. The key is to focus on strong beats 1 and 3. It is hard because your weakest finger (pinky) should play the loudest. Use a metronome to help you keep a consistent rhythm. The arpeggiated D♭ chord should be barely heard, press the keys very softly and quickly.

The most important thing is to enjoy the process of learning and playing. Experiment with different techniques and find what works best for you.

Right Hand

The right hand imitates the vocal delivery by Sabrina Carpenter: a predominant vocal style is tenuto.

Pitch inflections (slurred notes) should be played quietly. Play pianissimo. The melody is has a rapid flow with sudden changes of direction and expressive pauses. Count outloud.