Learning guitar can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! The truth is, many of the most beloved songs are built upon a foundation of simple chords that are incredibly easy to learn on the guitar. If you’re looking for a quick way to start playing your favorite tunes, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will introduce you to 12 fantastic songs that all share the same basic four guitar chords, arranged in the same order. Get ready to impress yourself and your friends – all you need are these 4 chords and a capo to unlock a world of music!
These songs are based on what I like to call the “Don’t Stop Believing” chord progression. This sequence is so popular, it’s the backbone of countless hits across genres. The chord progression is:
G Major – D Major – E minor – C Major
To help you get started immediately, I’ve included chord charts for these essential chords. You’ll also find instructions on where to place your capo for each song, as they aren’t all in the same key. Simply position your capo as indicated, play the G-D-Em-C chord progression, and you’ll be playing along in no time!
Visualizing the 4 Essential Chords
To get you started, let’s take a look at how to play each of these foundational chords. These diagrams will show you exactly where to place your fingers on the fretboard.
G Major Chord Diagram for Beginner Guitarists
G Major Guitar Chord Finger Position for Easy Songs
E Minor Chord Diagram Easy to Learn for Guitar
D Major Chord Diagram for Simple Guitar Songs
D Major Chord Diagram for Simple Guitar Songs
12 Easy Chord Songs to Learn Guitar Today
Here are 12 popular songs you can play using just these four chords. Remember to place your capo at the indicated fret for each song to match the original key.
1) “Don’t Stop Believin” – Journey
Capo 9th fret (E Major)
For the full chord chart, click here.
2) “With or Without You” – U2
Capo 7th fret (D Major)
Chord chart available here.
3) “Soul Sister” – Train
Capo 9th fret (E Major)
Find the chord chart here.
Note: While the verse uses our core chord progression, the chorus changes slightly to C-D-G-G….C-D-G-G.
4) “Let it Be” – The Beatles
Capo 5th fret (C Major)
Chord Chart can be found here.
Note: Similar to “Soul Sister”, the verse follows our progression, but the chorus shifts to e-D-C-G….G-D-C-G.
5) “Already Gone” – Kelly Clarkson
Capo 2nd fret (A Major)
Access the chord chart here.
6) “I’m Yours” – Jason Mraz
Capo 4th fret (B Major)
Chord Chart available here.
Note: Keep an ear out for the occasional A major chord Jason adds in!
7) “Take Me Home Country Roads” – John Denver
Capo 2nd fret (A Major)
Find the chord chart here.
Note: You’ll sometimes hear a D7 chord in place of the D major, adding a bit of country flavor.
8) “Cruise” – Florida Georgia Line
Capo 3rd fret (Bb Major)
Chord Chart can be found here.
9) “Save Tonight” Eagle Eye Cherry
Capo 5th fret (C Major)
Access the chord chart here.
Note: This song uses the same four chords but starts the progression in a slightly different place: Em – C – G – D.
10) “Hey Oh (Snow)” – Red Hot Chili Peppers
Capo 4th fret (B Major)
Chord Chart available here.
Note: Like “Save Tonight,” this song also uses the same chords, but with a different starting point in the progression: Em – C – G – D.
11) “Apologize” – OneRepublic Ft. Timbaland
Capo 8th fret (Eb Major)
Find the chord chart here.
Note: Again, the same chords, but the progression starts at a different point: Em – C – G – D.
12) “Love the Way You Lie” – Eminem ft. Rihanna
Capo 3rd fret (Bb major)
Chord Chart can be found here.
Note: And yes, you guessed it – same chords, different starting point: Em – C – G – D.
With just these four easy guitar chords, you can play a huge range of popular songs. Start practicing these chords and songs today, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can start making music! Happy playing!
