The main synth riff (starts right away) is in C# minor:
Right hand (octave 4–5):
C#4 – G#3 – C#4 – E4 – F#4 – E4 – C#4 – G#3 … (repeats)
Rhythm: 16th-note arpeggio, straight but fast (~130 BPM).
Use in DAW:
Draw MIDI notes in piano roll, loop 2 bars. ellie goulding lights midi
Best sources (free, quality-checked):
What to look for:
A good MIDI will include:
⚠️ Avoid sites with “EXE downloads” or too many pop-ups. Stick to the ones above. The main synth riff (starts right away) is
If you find a MIDI file of “Lights” (or transcribe it yourself), here’s a production workflow:
Using a MIDI file to learn, remix, or create a cover is generally fine. However, if you release a track commercially that uses the exact melody or chords without significant transformation, you may need to clear rights with Ellie Goulding’s publishers (Warner Chappell Music). For non-commercial remixes or YouTube covers, credit the original song.
Suggested synth characters:
You have the Ellie Goulding Lights MIDI. Do not just copy the song—transform it.
Idea 1: The Lo-Fi Flip Take the chord progression MIDI and send it to a felt piano plugin (like Spitfire LABS). Slow the tempo to 70 BPM. Add vinyl crackle. You have a lo-fi study beat.
Idea 2: The Techno Re-work Keep only the vocal melody MIDI. Delete the arpeggio. Create a completely new bassline using the C# minor scale. Add a driving 4-on-the-floor kick drum at 128 BPM. Best sources (free, quality-checked):
Idea 3: The Cinematic Version Stretch the vocal MIDI notes out to double their length. Use a string ensemble patch (Analogue Lab or BBC Symphony Orchestra). Play the chords as long, swelling pads. The result sounds like a film trailer score.
Idea 4: The Guitar Cover Aid Guitarists can import the MIDI into Guitar Pro or TuxGuitar. The file will show you the exact fret positions for the arpeggios, allowing you to learn the fingerpicking pattern on an acoustic guitar.