Whether you’re taking an online guitar course or you hired a teacher, these songs can be a great extra practice.
If you're a beginner looking to dive into the world of guitar, starting with easy songs is a great way to build your skills and confidence. Below is a curated list of some of the easiest guitar songs, complete with details on their artists, years of release, and features that make them perfect for beginners.
1. The Beatles – “Love Me Do” (1962)
Artist: The Beatles
Songwriters: John Lennon, Paul McCartney
Overview: This iconic tune features simple chords (G major, C major, and D major) and is catchy and familiar, making it a perfect choice for beginners.
Notable Lyrics:
“Love, love me do
You know I love you.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: With just three basic chords, it’s easy to learn and play along with.
2. Bob Marley – “Three Little Birds” (1977)
Artist: Bob Marley
Songwriters: Bob Marley
Overview: This uplifting song contains just three chords: A, D, and E. Its simple strumming pattern and positive message make it a favorite.
Notable Lyrics:
“Three little birds
Pitch by my doorstep.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The repetitive chord structure allows for easy practice, making it accessible for new players.
3. Creedence Clearwater Revival – “Bad Moon Rising” (1969)
Artist: Creedence Clearwater Revival
Songwriters: John Fogerty
Overview: Featuring D major, A major, and G major, this fast-paced song helps beginners improve their rhythm.
Notable Lyrics:
“Don’t go around tonight
Well, it’s bound to take your life.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The straightforward chord progression is easy to master with practice.
4. 4 Non Blondes – “What’s Up” (1992)
Artist: 4 Non Blondes
Songwriters: Linda Perry
Overview: This song uses E, Am, G, D, and B chords, blending simplicity with a memorable melody.
Notable Lyrics:
“And so I wake in the morning
And I step outside.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its popularity means many players will recognize it, encouraging sing-alongs.
5. Leonard Cohen – “Hallelujah” (1984)
Artist: Leonard Cohen
Songwriters: Leonard Cohen
Overview: A beautifully haunting song, it requires just five chords, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Notable Lyrics:
“Now I’ve heard there was a secret chord
That David played.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its emotional depth makes it rewarding to learn, even for new players.
6. Tracy Chapman – “Talkin’ Bout a Revolution” (1988)
Artist: Tracy Chapman
Songwriters: Tracy Chapman
Overview: This song features a simple four-chord progression (G, C, Em, D) and a powerful message.
Notable Lyrics:
“Don’t you know
Talking about a revolution?”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The repetitive chord structure aids in developing chord transitions.
7. The Animals – “House of the Rising Sun” (1964)
Artist: The Animals
Songwriters: Traditional
Overview: This classic uses A minor, C major, D major, and E major, along with a notable arpeggiated picking style.
Notable Lyrics:
“There is a house in New Orleans.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: It introduces beginners to arpeggiated picking and fluid chord changes.
8. Taylor Swift – “Wildest Dreams” (2014)
Artist: Taylor Swift
Songwriters: Taylor Swift, Max Martin, Johan Carlsson
Overview: With basic open chords, this song is quick to learn and fun to play along with.
Notable Lyrics:
“Say you’ll remember me standing in a nice dress.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: It’s a modern song that’s relatable and appealing to many beginners.
9. Vance Joy – “Riptide” (2013)
Artist: Vance Joy
Songwriters: Vance Joy
Overview: This upbeat song features simple strumming patterns and a catchy melody.
Notable Lyrics:
“Running down to the riptide.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its popular status makes it enjoyable for players to practice.
10. Ed Sheeran – “Perfect” (2017)
Artist: Ed Sheeran
Songwriters: Ed Sheeran, Steven MacKintosh, Benjamin Levin
Overview: This romantic ballad consists of easy chords and a heartfelt message.
Notable Lyrics:
“I found a love for me.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The song’s emotional resonance makes it a rewarding experience for beginners.
11. Sam Smith – “Stay With Me” (2014)
Artist: Sam Smith
Songwriters: Sam Smith, James Napier, William Phillips
Overview: This soulful ballad features simple chords and a heartfelt plea for companionship.
Notable Lyrics:
“Oh, won’t you stay with me?
‘Cause you’re all I need.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its slow tempo allows for easier strumming and chord transitions.
12. Tom Petty – “Free Fallin’” (1989)
Artist: Tom Petty
Songwriters: Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne
Overview: A classic rock anthem with straightforward chords and a catchy chorus.
Notable Lyrics:
“I'm free, free fallin’.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The repetitive nature of the chords makes it easier to master.
13. Green Day – “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” (1997)
Artist: Green Day
Songwriters: Billie Joe Armstrong
Overview: This poignant ballad features simple chords and meaningful lyrics.
Notable Lyrics:
“It’s something unpredictable
But in the end, it’s right.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its slow tempo allows beginners to practice at their own pace.
14. Bob Dylan – “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door” (1973)
Artist: Bob Dylan
Songwriters: Bob Dylan
Overview: A timeless classic with a simple four-chord progression (G, D, A, C).
Notable Lyrics:
“Mama, take this badge from me
I can’t use it anymore.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The easy chords and structure make it a great song to learn.
15. Oasis – “Wonderwall” (1995)
Artist: Oasis
Songwriters: Noel Gallagher
Overview: This iconic song is a staple for guitarists and features a repetitive chord progression.
Notable Lyrics:
“Because maybe, you’re gonna be the one that saves me.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its popularity ensures that you’ll find many tutorials and cover versions.
16. Adele – “Someone Like You” (2011)
Artist: Adele
Songwriters: Adele, Dan Wilson
Overview: A powerful ballad with simple chords that convey deep emotion.
Notable Lyrics:
“Never mind, I’ll find someone like you.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The emotion in the song helps motivate practice.
17. The Lumineers – “Ho Hey” (2012)
Artist: The Lumineers
Songwriters: Wesley Schultz, Wesley Schultz
Overview: A folk-inspired tune with a catchy chorus and simple chords.
Notable Lyrics:
“I belong with you, you belong with me.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The repetitive nature of the song makes it easy to learn.
18. John Denver – “Take Me Home, Country Roads” (1971)
Artist: John Denver
Songwriters: John Denver, Bill Danoff, Taffy Nivert
Overview: A beloved country classic featuring easy chords and sing-along lyrics.
Notable Lyrics:
“Country roads, take me home.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its familiar melody and simple structure make it perfect for practice.
19. The Rolling Stones – “Wild Horses” (1971)
Artist: The Rolling Stones
Songwriters: Mick Jagger, Keith Richards
Overview: A rock classic with a powerful emotional vibe and simple chords.
Notable Lyrics:
“Wild horses, couldn’t drag me away.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The straightforward chord progression aids in learning.
20. Billie Eilish – “Your Power” (2021)
Artist: Billie Eilish
Songwriters: Billie Eilish, Finneas O’Connell
Overview: A reflective ballad with easy chords and a gentle strumming pattern.
Notable Lyrics:
“Try not to abuse your power.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its slow pace allows for thoughtful practice.
21. Fleetwood Mac – “Dreams” (1977)
Artist: Fleetwood Mac
Songwriters: Stevie Nicks
Overview: A smooth, melodic song that features simple chords and a relaxed tempo.
Notable Lyrics:
“Thunder only happens when it’s raining.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Easy transitions and a chill vibe make it enjoyable to play.
22. Radiohead – “High and Dry” (1995)
Artist: Radiohead
Songwriters: Thom Yorke
Overview: A reflective song with simple chords, perfect for beginners.
Notable Lyrics:
“Drying up in conversation.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The easy chord structure helps with learning.
23. The Cranberries – “Linger” (1993)
Artist: The Cranberries
Songwriters: Dolores O’Riordan, Noel Hogan
Overview: A hauntingly beautiful song with a straightforward chord progression.
Notable Lyrics:
“You know I’d thought you’d changed.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its mellow pace aids in chord practice.
24. The Blues Brothers – “Sweet Home Chicago” (1980)
Artist: The Blues Brothers
Songwriters: Robert Johnson
Overview: A blues classic that introduces beginners to basic riffs and chords.
Notable Lyrics:
“Sweet home Chicago.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The fun, upbeat nature makes it great for jamming.
25. Nat King Cole – “Autumn Leaves” (1945)
Artist: Nat King Cole
Songwriters: Joseph Kosma, Johnny Mercer
Overview: A jazz standard that can be simplified for beginners.
Notable Lyrics:
“Autumn leaves fall.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Offers a chance to practice chord changes in a jazzy context.
26. Coldplay – “The Scientist” (2002)
Artist: Coldplay
Songwriters: Guy Berryman, Jonny Buckland, Will Champion, Chris Martin
Overview: A beautiful ballad with a straightforward chord progression.
Notable Lyrics:
“Nobody said it was easy.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its emotional lyrics make it worthwhile to learn.
27. Alicia Keys – “Fallin’” (2001)
Artist: Alicia Keys
Songwriters: Alicia Keys, Jeffrey Cohen, Angela Hunte
Overview: A soulful R&B song that features simple chords and a catchy melody.
Notable Lyrics:
“I keep on fallin’.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Great for practicing both strumming and fingerpicking.
28. Paolo Nutini – “Candy” (2009)
Artist: Paolo Nutini
Songwriters: Paolo Nutini
Overview: A sweet, melodic song with simple chords.
Notable Lyrics:
“Darling, I’ll bathe your skin.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its laid-back vibe makes it fun to play.
29. Jack Johnson – “Upside Down” (2006)
Artist: Jack Johnson
Songwriters: Jack Johnson
Overview: A feel-good tune with simple chords and a relaxed strumming pattern.
Notable Lyrics:
“Upside down, I’ll find the things they say.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its cheerful nature makes it enjoyable for practice.
30. Men I Trust – “Show Me How” (2019)
Artist: Men I Trust
Songwriters: Men I Trust
Overview: A laid-back indie song with an easygoing vibe and simple chords.
Notable Lyrics:
“Show me how.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its relaxed tempo allows for comfortable practice.
31. Red Hot Chili Peppers – “Otherside” (1999)
Artist: Red Hot Chili Peppers
Songwriters: Anthony Kiedis, Flea, John Frusciante, Chad Smith
Overview: A staple of the band that features a catchy riff and simple chords.
Notable Lyrics:
“How long, how long will I slide?”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its familiarity helps beginners learn and enjoy playing.
32. America – “A Horse With No Name” (1971)
Artist: America
Songwriters: Dewey Bunnell
Overview: This song features an easy two-chord structure, making it accessible.
Notable Lyrics:
“On the first part of the journey.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Simple chords make it easy to pick up and play.
33. Stealers Wheel – “Stuck in the Middle with You” (1972)
Artist: Stealers Wheel
Songwriters: Gerry Rafferty, Joe Egan
Overview: A fun, upbeat song with a lively feel and easy chords.
Notable Lyrics:
“Well, I don’t know why I came here tonight.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The catchy melody encourages practice.
34. Billie Eilish – “Ocean Eyes” (2016)
Artist: Billie Eilish
Songwriters: Billie Eilish, Finneas O’Connell
Overview: A beautiful ballad with a simple chord progression.
Notable Lyrics:
“Would you let me know?”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The emotional delivery makes it a pleasure to learn.
35. Snow Patrol – “Chasing Cars” (2006)
Artist: Snow Patrol
Songwriters: Gary Lightbody, Johnny McDaid
Overview: A slow, melodic song that features repetitive chords.
Notable Lyrics:
“If I lay here, if I just lay here.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its slow pace allows for comfortable practice.
36. The National – “I Need My Girl” (2013)
Artist: The National
Songwriters: Matt Berninger, Aaron Dessner
Overview: A gentle song with simple chords and an emotional theme.
Notable Lyrics:
“I need my girl.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The relaxed tempo makes it easy to play along.
37. Angus and Julia Stone – “Big Jet Plane” (2010)
Artist: Angus and Julia Stone
Songwriters: Angus Stone, Julia Stone
Overview: A soothing song with a simple chord structure, perfect for beginners.
Notable Lyrics:
“Big jet plane, come take me home.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The mellow vibe encourages practice.
38. Norah Jones – “Come Away With Me” (2002)
Artist: Norah Jones
Songwriters: Norah Jones, Jesse Harris
Overview: A smooth, jazzy tune with easy chords and a calming melody.
Notable Lyrics:
“Come away with me in the night.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its gentle pace makes it easy to pick up.
39. Edwyn Collins – “A Girl Like You” (1994)
Artist: Edwyn Collins
Songwriters: Edwyn Collins
Overview: A catchy pop song with a simple chord progression.
Notable Lyrics:
“I’ve never known a girl like you before.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The upbeat tempo makes it enjoyable to practice.
40. Dire Straits – “Walk of Life” (1985)
Artist: Dire Straits
Songwriters: Mark Knopfler
Overview: An energetic song with an easy chord progression, great for beginners.
Notable Lyrics:
“Here comes Johnny singing oldies, goldies.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its lively rhythm encourages enthusiastic playing.
41. Johnny Cash – “Ring of Fire” (1963)
Artist: Johnny Cash
Songwriters: June Carter, Merle Kilgore
Overview: A classic country song with a distinctive sound and simple chords.
Notable Lyrics:
“Love is a burning thing.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The straightforward chord progression makes it easy to learn.
42. Kumbaya (Traditional) – “Kumbaya” (Traditional)
Artist: Traditional
Overview: A well-known folk song that is simple and repetitive, making it a great choice for beginners.
Notable Lyrics:
“Kumbaya, my Lord.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its repetitive structure aids in learning.
43. Elvis Presley – “Can’t Help Falling in Love” (1961)
Artist: Elvis Presley
Songwriters: Hugo Peretti, Luigi Creatore, George David Weiss
Overview: A romantic ballad with easy chords and beautiful melodies.
Notable Lyrics:
“Take my hand, take my whole life too.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The slower pace helps with chord transitions.
44. Jason Mraz – “I’m Yours” (2008)
Artist: Jason Mraz
Songwriters: Jason Mraz, Amanie Amour
Overview: A feel-good song with a catchy melody and simple chords.
Notable Lyrics:
“I’m yours.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its upbeat nature makes practice enjoyable.
45. The Beach Boys – “Surfer Girl” (1963)
Artist: The Beach Boys
Songwriters: Brian Wilson
Overview: A soft rock classic with romantic lyrics and easy chords.
Notable Lyrics:
“Little surfer, little one.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its gentle tempo allows for comfortable playing.
46. Mumford & Sons – “I Will Wait” (2012)
Artist: Mumford & Sons
Songwriters: Marcus Mumford, Winston Marshall, Ben Lovett, Ted Dwane
Overview: A folk-rock anthem with a lively rhythm and simple chord progression.
Notable Lyrics:
“I will wait, I will wait for you.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The repetitive chords make it easy to follow.
47. Bruno Mars – “Count on Me” (2010)
Artist: Bruno Mars
Songwriters: Bruno Mars, Philip Lawrence, Ari Levine
Overview: A heartwarming song with a simple melody and chords.
Notable Lyrics:
“You can count on me like 1, 2, 3.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its cheerful vibe makes it fun to play.
48. Simon & Garfunkel – “The Sound of Silence” (1964)
Artist: Simon & Garfunkel
Songwriters: Paul Simon
Overview: A hauntingly beautiful song with straightforward chords.
Notable Lyrics:
“Hello darkness, my old friend.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The slow tempo helps with learning and practice.
49. The Proclaimers – “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” (1988)
Artist: The Proclaimers
Songwriters: Charlie Reid, Craig Reid
Overview: An upbeat, fun song that’s easy to play and sing along with.
Notable Lyrics:
“I would walk 500 miles.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: Its catchy chorus encourages practice and performance.
50. Rihanna – “Stay” (2012)
Artist: Rihanna
Songwriters: Mikky Ekko, Elof Loelv
Overview: A powerful ballad with simple chords and emotional depth.
Notable Lyrics:
“Not really sure how to feel about it.”
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The slow tempo allows for comfortable practice.
Conclusion
With this extended list of easy guitar songs, you now have a variety of options to choose from. Each of these songs offers something unique, whether it’s a catchy melody, simple chords, or emotional depth. Happy strumming, and enjoy your journey as a guitarist!
