As a beginner musician, learning easy songs for whichever instrument you are playing is one of the best exercises. Not only do you get to practice your chops but you also get to learn exactly how a particular song is played.
However, as a new guitar player, you may be looking for a list of easy songs to learn. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the 50+ best easy guitar songs. These are songs are also great to sing along to! So if you’d like to improve your singing skills, check out our list of the best online singing lessons.
Furthermore, if you find your guitar-playing abilities are stuck, don’t worry! We have an amazing list of online guitar lessons for all skill levels.
Have fun and happy guitar playing.
What Are The Best Easy Guitar Songs?
Here is my list of the top 50+ all-time best easy guitar songs. From chord-based tunes to more picking and riff-based songs, this easy guitar playlist has a little something for everyone.
1. “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” By Jet
There’s something about this song that just makes you want to get up and dance. The catchy beat, the powerful vocals, the cool guitar riff… it all comes together to create a truly irresistible track.
And that’s what makes “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” such a great song for a beginner guitar player – it’s just so darn catchy. You can’t help but tap your feet along to the beat, and the chorus is guaranteed to get stuck in your head for days on end.
2. “Sweet Home Alabama” By Lynyrd Skynyrd
Sweet Home Alabama is a song by the American rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd, released in 1974. This easy guitar song uses a combination of picking and chord strumming to make it one of the most popular beginner guitar songs of all time.
It’s one of those songs that’s instantly recognizable and can get people of all ages singing along. If you’re looking for an easy guitar song to learn that’s sure to be a crowd pleaser, Sweet Home Alabama is a great choice.
3. “Brown Eyed Girl” By Van Morrison
“Brown Eyed Girl” is a 1967 song by Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison. It became an immediate hit, reaching #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The intro to this song is fun to play but is a little on the fast side so if you’re a beginner guitarist you might want to slow down the tempo when first starting out with this one.
4. “Cocaine” By Eric Clapton
In 1974, Eric Clapton wrote a song called “Cocaine”. The song is about the dangers of drug addiction and the downward spiral that comes with it. It’s one of those easy guitar songs that everyone knows, and it’s a great example of Clapton’s songwriting ability.
The guitar chords for the verse and chorus of this song are relatively easy and if you want a bit more of a challenge try playing the tabbed version or the solo.
5. “Folsom Prison Blues” By Johnny Cash
Folsom Prison Blues is a song written and recorded by American singer-songwriter Johnny Cash. The song was first released on Cash’s 1957 album “With His Hot and Blue Guitar” and became one of his signature songs.
It’s a great beginner guitar song if you’re into country music and it’s easy to learn since it really only uses three chords. The G7 and D7 are only slight variations of their major chord counterparts.
6. “Waiting On the World to Change” By John Mayer
John Mayer’s song “Waiting on the World to Change” speaks to the frustration that many people feel in today’s society. A lot of John Mayer’s songs are more intermediate/advanced but this one is a great electric guitar beginner song that also features a few relatively easy minor chords.
Read Next: 20 Easy Guitar Pop Songs (From Classic to Modern Hits)
7. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” By Nirvana
Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” is one of the most iconic songs of the 1990s. The song propelled the band to superstardom and helped to popularize the grunge sound. If you’re looking for a great easy guitar song that will get everyone’s head banging, this is the one.
With only 4 easy major chords to learn, this song is perfect for beginner guitarists. The key to playing this song well is to get the strumming pattern down. Once you’ve got that, the rest will fall into place. The tab that I’ve linked for this song also places the capo on the first fret. If you’re experienced with power chords you can choose to lose the capo and try the power chord version instead.
8. “Wish You Were Here” By Pink Floyd
Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here” is a song that perfectly captures the feeling of longing for someone who is no longer in your life. The acoustic guitar licks are relatively easy to play and can be easily figured out with the help of guitar tabs like these.
The intro licks feature the use of slides, bends, and pull-offs so if you’re up for a bit of a challenge, take this one on.
9. “Start Me Up” By The Rolling Stones
Start Me Up is a song by The Rolling Stones that was released in 1981 on the album Tattoo You. The song was written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, and it became one of the band’s most iconic songs.
It’s an easy guitar song that is simple to play but gets everyone’s feet moving. Use a capo positioned on the 3rd fret and jam out with the 3 easy chords above.
10. “Thinking Out Loud” By Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud” has been praised for its simple, yet effective, lyrics and melody. If you’re a beginner guitarist looking for an easy song to learn, “Thinking Out Loud” is a great choice.
The song only uses a few basic guitar chords, and the chord progression and strumming pattern are relatively straightforward.
Some of the guitar chord changes are admittedly a little fast so you’ll need to practice your finger transitions a bit to get this one down.
11. “Smoke on the Water” By Deep Purple
Smoke on the Water is a song by British rock band Deep Purple. The song was released in 1972 and was written about a fire that broke out at the Montreux Casino during a Frank Zappa concert. The lyrics tell the story of how the fire started and how it quickly spread, eventually destroying the casino.
Possibly one of the most famous beginner guitar songs, Smoke on the Water is perfect for those who are just starting to learn how to play the instrument.
12. “Whole Lotta Love” By Led Zeppelin
Whole Lotta Love is one of the most iconic rock songs of all time. Led Zeppelin wrote the song and released it on their second album, Led Zeppelin II, in 1969. The song quickly became a fan favorite, thanks to its driving guitar riff and Robert Plant’s powerful vocals.
If you’re a guitar player, you’ve probably wanted to learn how to play Whole Lotta Love at some point. The good news is, that it’s not too difficult to learn and uses 3 easy guitar chords: D, E, and A.
13. “House of the Rising Sun” By Animals
The Animals recorded “House of the Rising Sun” in 1964, and still to this day is a well-known classic. The chords aren’t strummed but rather make use of a picking pattern that although might sound fast and daunting, really isn’t too hard once you get the hang of it.
The chords do change relatively quickly however and there are a few more chords involved than other songs in this list.
14. “Walk This Way” By Aerosmith
In 1975, Aerosmith released their breakthrough album, Toys in the Attic. The album featured the hit single “Walk This Way,” which helped to launch the band to superstardom. The song became an instant classic, and its iconic video helped to popularize the fledgling art of music video.
Today, “Walk This Way” is making this list of easy guitar songs due to the incredibly catchy but yet simple intro hook. You’ll need to check out the guitar tabs for this song to learn how to play the intro but it’s definitely worth it and you’ll have tons of fun with this one.
15. “You Shook Me All Night Long” By AC/DC
You Shook Me All Night Long is a song by the Australian rock band AC/DC. It was released as the lead single from their seventh studio album, Back in Black, in 1980. This easy guitar song is perfect for beginners.
The whole song basically uses a combination of chords G, C, and D. The chorus also make use of a simple picking pattern over the chorus but overall isn’t difficult to learn.
16. “Seven Nation Army” By The White Stripes
Seven Nation Army is one of the most popular songs by American rock duo The White Stripes. The song was released in 2003 as the lead single from their fourth studio album, Elephant.
The song’s distinctive riff is played on an electric guitar with a heavy amount of distortion.
17. “Do I Wanna Know?” By Arctic Monkeys
Alex Turner’s searing break-up anthem “Do I Wanna Know?” sees the lead singer of Arctic Monkeys at his most vulnerable and introspective. Musically, the track is propelled by a catchy electric guitar riff, heavy bassline, and driving drums, giving it a feeling of unease and tension.
The Eb chord in this song can be a little challenging for beginners, but once you get the hang of it, it’s not too difficult. The lyrics are deceptively simple, but Turner’s clever wordplay and metaphors make for a complex and interesting song.
18. “Taking Care of Business” By BTO
Taking Care of Business is a song by Bachman Turner Overdrive that was released in 1973. The lyrics are very motivating, and the song is often used as an anthem for hard-working people. Taking Care of Business is a classic rock song that has inspired many people to work hard and achieve their goals while also being an easy guitar song for beginners to learn.
19. “Sunshine Of Your Love” By Cream
Sunshine of Your Love is a song by the British rock band Cream. Sunshine of Your Love was written by Cream bassist Jack Bruce, guitarist Eric Clapton, and lyricist Pete Brown. The guitar riff that begins the song is one of the most recognizable riffs in rock music.
With the help of the song’s guitar tabs, you’ll be able to learn this song in no time.
20. “Where Are You Going” By Dave Matthews Band
Dave Matthews Band’s “Where Are You Going” is a song about longing for lost love. The music mirrors this emotional journey, starting with a simple acoustic guitar melody and gradually building to a soaring conclusion.
This song uses a combination of sus chords, minor, and major chords. If you need to practice your chord changes, this is a good song to get you started.
21. “Hair of the Dog” By Nazareth
“Hair of the Dog” is a song by the Scottish hard rock band Nazareth, released as the lead single from their album of the same name in 1975. The song has been covered by many artists, including Guns N’ Roses, who released a live version as a single in 1992.
“Hair of the Dog” is one of the best beginner guitar songs and has an accurate set of guitar tabs so you can easily learn it too.
22. “Sharp Dressed Man” By ZZ Top
Sharp Dressed Man was released in 1983 as the second single from their album Eliminator. It’s an up-tempo song with a catchy guitar riff and lyrics that extol the virtues of dressing well. If you’re just getting started with playing guitar, this is one to add to your collection.
Read Next: Top 75 GREATEST Acoustic Guitar Songs That Ever Existed
23. “Slow Ride” By Foghat
Slow Ride It was released in May 1977 as the lead single from their eighth studio album, Slow Ride. Written by band members Dave Peverett and Tony Stevens, “Slow Ride” is an uptempo blues-rock song with a hard-driving guitar riff.
The guitar tabs are easy to understand making it a good one for beginners.
24. “Back In Black” By AC/DC
Back in Black was released as the lead single from their seventh studio album of the same name in 1980. The song is considered one of AC/DC’s greatest songs and is one of the most popular rock songs of all time.
The song also has a strong and memorable melody that beginner guitarists can easily learn. Additionally, the song’s tempo is slow and steady, making it easy to keep up with.
25. “Here It Goes Again” By OK Go
Here It Goes Again was released as the lead single from Ok Go’s second album, Oh No (2005), and rose to prominence after its accompanying music video went viral on YouTube. The song itself is an upbeat pop-rock track with catchy melodies and energetic instrumentation.
26. “T.N.T” By AC/DC
This song is one of AC/DC’s most popular and well-known tracks, and has been performed live by the band on multiple occasions. It is also notable for its opening guitar riff, which has been described as “one of the most famous riffs in rock history.”
27. “Bad Moon Rising” By CCR
“Bad Moon Rising” is a song by American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival, released as the lead single from their 1968 album Green River. It’s one of those songs with a memorable chord progression and a great one for practicing your strumming pattern skills.
This song just goes to show that you don’t need to use a ton of chords to create a great song. With the use of 3 simple chords: D, A, and G, you can create something that not only sounds great but is easy to play.
28. “Have You Ever Seen The Rain?” By CCR
CCR’s “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” is a song about hope in the face of adversity. The lyrics tell the story of a person who has faced many challenges in their life but still holds out hope for the future. It is a powerful reminder that no matter how dark things may seem, there is always hope for better days.
Although this CCR song features a few more chords than “Bad Moon Rising” it’s still a relatively easy guitar song.
29. “Let It Be” By The Beatles
The Beatles were one of the most influential bands of all time, and their song “Let it Be” is a classic example of their ability to touch people’s hearts with their music. It is a timeless song that will continue to inspire people for generations to come.
Let It Be was originally performed on the piano and if you’re looking to learn how to play the piano with in-person or online piano lessons, this is a great song to learn. However, it’s also a fun one to play on guitar and can be transposed to different keys to make it easier to sing along to.
30. “Free Fallin” By Tom Petty
“Free Fallin” is one of Tom Petty’s most well-known songs, and for good reason. The lyrics are simple but resonant, and the melody is catchy and memorable making it a great addition to our beginner songs. “Free Fallin” is a perfect example of Petty’s gift for writing timeless songs about the ups and downs of life.
31. “Stuck In The Middle With You” By Stealers Wheel
“Stuck In The Middle With You” is a song by the Scottish rock band Stealers Wheel. It’s a great song for beginner guitarists as the chords are simple and everyone knows it. “Stuck In The Middle With You” is a classic rock song that has stood the test of time.
If you’re looking for an easy song that will getting everyone’s feet tapping at the next party, this is a good choice.
32. “Love Me Do” By The Beatles
While The Beatles are best known for their later work, “Love Me Do” remains an important part of the band’s history. The catchy melody is backed by a steady beat, and the use of harmonies gives the song a richness that would become a hallmark of The Beatles’ sound.
Featuring only 4 chords, you can get started playing Love Me Do in no time!
33. “Good Riddance Time Of Your Life” By Green Day
This song was released as a single from their fourth album, Nimrod, in 1997. The lyrics are simple but powerful, the guitar chords are easy to play with a simple strumming pattern, and the melody is catchy and memorable.
34. “Ring Of Fire” By Johnny Cash
Johnny Cash’s Ring of Fire is, on one level, a simple love song. The single became one of Cash’s biggest hits, staying at number one on the country charts for seven weeks. The song’s distinctive sound is due in part to its production, which featured mariachi horns and drums.
Creating a guitar playlist without including a Johnny Cash tune or two is hard to do. Ring of Fire is one of these easy guitar songs that almost any player can learn in an afternoon.
The chords for Ring of Fire are easy to play, but the trick is getting the strumming pattern down. The pattern is fairly simple, but it’s not necessarily intuitive. The best way to get it down is to listen to the recording and try to mimic Cash’s strumming. Once you have the pattern down, the song will come together quickly.
35. “Ho Hey” By The Lumineers
This song is in the key of G major with a moderate tempo of 104 beats per minute. “Ho Hey” is an uplifting, positive song with a hook that is easy to sing along to.
The lyrics are about love and relationships, and the simple chord progression makes the song accessible to both beginners and experienced musicians alike.
36. “Summer of 69” By Bryan Adams
Bryan Adams’ “Summer of 69” is a classic rock song that evokes memories of young love and carefree days. The song was released in 1984, but it still resonates with listeners today. The catchy melody and Adams’ nostalgic lyrics transport listeners back to a simpler time.
37. “Hey, Soul Sister” By Train
“Hey, Soul Sister” is a song by the American rock band Train. The song was released as the first single from the band’s fifth studio album, Save Me, San Francisco (2009). In addition to its commercial success, “Hey, Soul Sister” has been praised by music critics for its catchy melody and positive lyrics.
38. “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” By Queen
“Crazy Little Thing Called Love” is a song by the British rock band Queen. It was written by Freddie Mercury and released as a single in 1980. The song is about falling in love and features a simple chord progression that’s perfect for beginner guitarists.
39. “I’m Yours” By Jason Mraz
You’ve probably heard Jason Mraz’s smash hit “I’m Yours” at some point in the last decade. The song was released in 2008 and quickly became a mainstay on radio stations around the world. It’s a simple song that’s built upon a total of 7 chords.
40. “Little Talks” By Of Monsters And Men
Of Monsters And Men’s “Little Talks” is a song about the mixed feelings that come with growing up and growing apart from those you love. The song is full of beautiful imagery, and the chorus is particularly memorable.
Read Next: 25 Guitar Love Songs Guys Learn to Impress Girls
41. “Born In The U.S.A.” By Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the U.S.A.” is an iconic song that perfectly captures the patriotic spirit of America. The song has a catchy melody that makes it easy to sing along to, and the message is one that everyone can relate to.
Born in the U.S.A uses the least number of required than any other song on this list. It just goes to show, with a great melody on top of some simple chords, you can make something great.
42. “Walk Of Life” By Dire Straits
This song is musically similar to another Dire Straits song, “Money for Nothing”, which was also a hit in 1985. “Walk of Life” is an up-tempo rock song with a catchy guitar chord progression.
Read Next: The 23 Best Songs About Money Ever Written
43. “Cecilia” By Simon & Garfunkel
“Cecilia” is a song by Simon & Garfunkel that was released in 1970. The song has a catchy beat and lilting melody, which matches the emotional tone of the lyrics.
44. “Yellow” By Coldplay
The song “Yellow” by Coldplay is about the beauty of nature and the simplicity of life. The music is soft and mellow, with a gentle melody that makes it not only easy to listen to but also play as a beginner guitarist.
45. “No Rain” By Blind Melon
In 1992, the American rock band Blind Melon released their debut album, which included the hit single “No Rain.” The song features an attention-grabbing guitar lick at the beginning and the chord progression throughout is simple yet easy and fun to play.
46. “Closing Time” By Semisonic
“Closing Time” is a song by the American rock band Semisonic. It was released in March 1998 as the lead single from their album Feeling Strangely Fine. The song was written by Dan Wilson and produced by Nicholas Rowe. “Closing Time” is a power ballad that combines elements of pop and rock. The song’s lyrics are about the end of a night at a bar and closing time.
This one features a few barre chords so you’ll need to be comfortable with those before attempting to learn this one.
47. “All Right Now” By Free
Written by Paul Rodgers and Andy Fraser, “All Right Now” is a song that has become an anthem for generations of music fans. The catchy tune and positive lyrics have resonated with listeners over the years, making “All Right Now” a classic.
The distorted guitars, piercing vocals, and driving drums make “All Right Now” a perfect song for any easy guitar playlist. So grab your guitar and get ready to rock out to “All Right Now”!
48. “Times Like These” By Foo Fighters
“Times Like These” is a song by the Foo Fighters, released in 2002. The lyrics are full of hope and perseverance, making it an anthem for anyone going through a tough time.
It’s also a great beginner song to play in a garage band or just to jam out to on your own.
49. “3AM” By Matchbox Twenty
“3AM” is a song by American rock band Matchbox Twenty, released in 1997 as the third single from their debut album, Yourself or Someone Like You. The chord progression in this song is easy to follow and features some fun to play strumming patterns that you should definitely try out.
3AM also makes use of a capo on the first fret so if you don’t have a capo yet, I’d recommend getting the G7th capo. It’s the best one I’ve used and it’s super reliable and convenient. Check out my full review of the G7th capo.
50. “Run-Around” By Blues Traveler
John Popper’s harmonica playing is prominently featured throughout this song. The chorus of “Run-Around” is both catchy and easy to play making it a great song for beginner guitarists to learn.
51. “Mr. Jones” By Counting Crows
This song was released in August 1993 as the third single from their debut album, August and Everything After (1993). Mr. Jones is a melancholy ballad about unrequited love and rejection.
52. “She Moves In Her Own Way” By The Kooks
“She Moves In Her Own Way” is a 2007 song by The Kooks. The song was written by frontman Luke Pritchard and is about a particular woman who Pritchard was attracted to.
The song has a catchy, upbeat rhythm that belies its lyrical subject matter.
50+ Easy Guitar Songs [Infographic]
Easy Guitar Songs – In Summary
Hopefully, this list of easy guitar songs has given you some ideas as to where to start in learning some of the best guitar-based songs I know of.
If you have any questions or comments about any of the songs listed above or have any songs you think would fit in well, don’t forget to leave a comment below.
Awesome resource, man, really appreciate it
No problem! Thanks for checking it out 🙂
So glad to see blind melon make the list! no rain is one of my fav easy songs and it never makes these lists! 🙂
Great sitesite, great list of easy to learn songs, this should keep me practicing for a while. Thanks!
No problem Karl! Glad you enjoyed the list.
Can any one Help me with Death Bed Chords