Learning guitar can be an incredibly rewarding journey, and one of the most motivating ways to start is by learning to play songs you love. If you’re just beginning your guitar journey, diving straight into complex solos might feel overwhelming. That’s why starting with simpler tunes is key to building your skills and keeping you inspired. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of strumming along to a familiar melody, whether you’re playing acoustic or electric guitar.
While shredding like Van Halen or riffing like Clapton is a fantastic long-term goal, remember that even guitar legends started with the basics. Mastering foundational chords and strumming patterns on easy songs is the crucial first step.
So, grab your acoustic guitar or electric guitar and explore these 40 simple songs perfect for any beginner to master. With the help of resources like Fender Play, learning these songs becomes even more accessible and enjoyable.
And if you’re excited to begin learning today, Fender Play offers a fantastic opportunity to get started with 3 months of free unlimited access – no credit card required.
1. J Mascis: “Feel The Pain”
J Mascis, known for his work with Dinosaur Jr., draws inspiration from classic rock icons like Black Sabbath. “Feel The Pain” showcases his unique blend of punk, rock, and alternative indie sounds. Its moderate tempo and straightforward chord progression make it a surprisingly accessible song for beginner guitarists looking to explore beyond basic strumming.
Learn how to play “Feel The Pain” here.
2. Oasis: “Wonderwall”
“Wonderwall,” from Oasis’s iconic album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, became a global anthem and defined a generation of British rock. Its simple chord structure and repetitive nature make “Wonderwall” an ideal beginner guitar song for practicing chord changes and consistent strumming. It’s a classic singalong that’s instantly recognizable and fun to play.
Learn how to play “Wonderwall” here.
3. The Bobby Fuller Four: “I Fought the Law”
“I Fought the Law,” penned by Sonny Curtis of the Crickets, is a timeless rebel anthem, famously covered by The Clash. Despite the outlaw’s unfortunate end, the song’s upbeat tempo and simple chord progression make it a great choice for beginners. Matt Lake from Fender Play simplifies it into a campfire-friendly strumming song, perfect for developing a steady rhythm.
Learn how to play “I Fought the Law” here.
Image alt text: Acoustic guitar leaning against a wooden chair in a sunlit room, representing easy songs to learn on acoustic guitar for beginners.
4. Carrie Underwood: “Blown Away”
Carrie Underwood, often hailed as the “Queen of Country,” brings a modern sensibility to classic country songwriting. “Blown Away,” a chart-topping hit, demonstrates this perfectly. Beginner guitar players will appreciate that this Grammy-winning song relies on a single, repeating chord progression, making it remarkably easy to learn and play while still sounding impressive.
Learn how to play “Blown Away” here.
5. Lukas Graham: “7 Years”
Danish pop band Lukas Graham achieved international fame with “7 Years,” a heartfelt and catchy tune that dominated global charts in 2015. This song’s straightforward chord progression and moderate tempo make it a fantastic choice for beginner guitarists to practice their timing and chord transitions on a popular and contemporary song.
Learn how to play “7 Years” here.
6. Brad Paisley: “He Didn’t Have to Be”
Brad Paisley, a master of the Telecaster, is a defining voice in modern country music. “He Didn’t Have to Be,” his first No. 1 hit, is a gentle and melodic song that’s easy for beginners to pick up. Learning this track is a great way to refine your strumming technique while playing a song with emotional depth and relatability.
Learn how to play “He Didn’t Have to Be” here.
7. The Rolling Stones: “Honky Tonk Women”
“Honky Tonk Women” by The Rolling Stones is a classic blend of hard rock energy and country swagger. This chart-topper, penned by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, revolves heavily around the G chord. Beginner guitarists will enjoy learning the iconic intro riff, verses, and chorus, making it a fun and recognizable song to add to their repertoire.
Learn how to play “Honky Tonk Women” here.
8. Jimi Hendrix: “Purple Haze”
“Purple Haze” is a signature song by guitar legend Jimi Hendrix, showcasing his revolutionary psychedelic rock sound. While Hendrix’s full virtuosity might be for advanced players, the basic chord structure of “Purple Haze” is surprisingly accessible for beginners who want to learn a foundational rock riff and experience a taste of iconic rock history.
Learn how to play “Purple Haze” here.
9. Joni Mitchell: “Big Yellow Taxi”
Joni Mitchell’s “Big Yellow Taxi” is a folk-pop classic with a strong environmental message, released in 1970. Inspired by a view of nature juxtaposed with a parking lot, the song’s catchy melody and simple, repetitive chord progression make it a wonderful choice for beginner guitarists to practice fingerpicking or basic strumming patterns.
Learn how to play “Big Yellow Taxi” here.
10. Buddy Holly: “Not Fade Away”
Buddy Holly’s “Not Fade Away,” originally recorded in 1957 with The Crickets, is a rock and roll staple. Fender Play instructor Nikki Stevens makes this song approachable for beginners, teaching down strums and progressing to more complex alternate strumming patterns using just three chords (E, A, and D major). It’s a fantastic song for developing rhythm and strumming skills.
Learn how to play “Not Fade Away.”
11. The National: “I Need My Girl”
The National’s “I Need My Girl,” a single from 2013, is known for its melancholic beauty. Jen Trani from Fender Play simplifies this song for beginners, focusing on four chords (A minor, C, F, and G) and a basic strumming pattern. Using a capo makes this song even easier to play, allowing beginners to achieve a rich, full sound quickly.
Learn how to play “I Need My Girl” here.
Image alt text: Close-up of guitar chords being played on an acoustic guitar, illustrating learning beginner guitar songs and chord progressions.
12. Leonard Cohen: “Hallelujah”
Leonard Cohen, a celebrated songwriter and poet, is best known for his iconic anthem “Hallelujah,” famously covered by Jeff Buckley. “Hallelujah’s” powerful melody and relatively simple chord structure make it a rewarding song for beginner guitarists to learn. It allows for practice in dynamics and emotional expression through music.
Learn how to play “Hallelujah” here.
13. The Animals: “It’s My Life”
“It’s My Life” by The Animals, originally released in 1965, is a classic rock song with a theme of personal independence. With a driving rhythm and a straightforward chord progression, this song is excellent for beginner guitarists to work on their strumming hand and learn a song with a powerful message and memorable melody.
Learn how to play “It’s My Life” here.
14. Grace VanderWaal: “Clay”
Grace VanderWaal, a ukulele prodigy, wrote “Clay,” a metaphorical song about bullying, for her debut album Perfectly Imperfect. This heartfelt ballad features just four easy open position chords: G, E minor, D, and C. Its simplicity and emotional resonance make it a perfect beginner guitar song, especially for those wanting to play gentle and expressive music.
Learn how to play “Clay” here.
15. Delta Spirit: “California”
“California” was Delta Spirit’s breakthrough single in 2012, gaining them significant radio airplay. This indie rock track blends pop sensibilities with roots-rock elements and features a cool alternate strumming pattern. Using just four chords (A minor, C, G, and D), as taught by Fender Play instructor Jen Trani, beginners can quickly learn to play this catchy and energetic song.
Learn how to play “California” here.
16. The Isley Brothers: “Shout”
“Shout” by The Isley Brothers is an iconic song known for its call-and-response structure and infectious energy. While it only reached No. 47 on the Billboard Hot 100 initially, its enduring popularity has made it a gold-certified classic. Perfect for parties and gatherings, “Shout” is a fun and simple song for beginners to learn, focusing on rhythm and basic chord changes.
Learn how to play “Shout” here.
17. Creedence Clearwater Revival: “Bad Moon Rising”
Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Bad Moon Rising” is a timeless rock classic with a deceptively upbeat sound despite its ominous lyrics. Its steady, basic strumming pattern and simple chord progression (D, A, and G) make it an ideal beginner guitar song for practicing chord switching and developing a solid sense of rhythm.
Learn how to play “Bad Moon Rising” here.
18. Billie Eilish: “Ocean Eyes”
“ocean eyes” was Billie Eilish’s debut song, originally released on SoundCloud in 2015. Written by her brother Finneas O’Connell, this song launched her extraordinary career. Its haunting melody and simple chord structure make “ocean eyes” a captivating and easy-to-learn song for beginner guitarists interested in playing contemporary pop music.
Learn how to play “Ocean Eyes” here.
19. Andra Day: “Rise Up”
“Rise Up” is Andra Day’s platinum-selling single from her debut album Cheers to the Fall. This empowering and soulful song has a relatively simple chord progression, making it accessible for beginner guitarists who want to play a song with depth and emotional impact. It’s great for practicing dynamics and chord sustain.
Learn how to play “Rise Up” here.
20. Willie Dixon: “I Can’t Quit You Baby”
“I Can’t Quit You Baby,” written by blues legend Willie Dixon, was first recorded by Otis Rush in 1956. Led Zeppelin famously covered this blues classic on their debut album. With just three basic chords (G, C, and D), this song is a fantastic introduction to blues guitar and essential chord progressions for any beginner.
Learn how to play “I Can’t Quit You Baby” here.
Image alt text: Electric guitar player performing on stage with colorful lighting, representing electric beginner guitar songs for learning to play live.
21. Butch Walker: “Chrissie Hynde”
Butch Walker’s “Chrissie Hynde” is a folk-pop ballad from his album Afraid of Ghosts. This introspective song, referencing The Pretenders, has a country-tinged feel and a simple chord structure, making it a good choice for beginner guitarists who enjoy singer-songwriter styles and want to practice emotive playing.
Learn how to play “Chrissie Hynde here.
22. Frankie Ballard: “Helluva Life”
Frankie Ballard’s country hit “Helluva Life” is an upbeat song about gratitude and appreciating life’s simple pleasures. This Gold-certified track has a catchy melody and a straightforward chord progression, making it a fun and easy song for beginner guitarists to learn and practice their strumming and chord changes.
Learn how to play “Helluva Life” here.
23. Carl Perkins: “Matchbox”
Carl Perkins’ rockabilly classic “Matchbox” is built on just three chords (A, D, and E), making it incredibly accessible for beginners. It’s an excellent song for practicing alternate strumming and solidifying rhythm guitar skills. Even The Beatles covered this song, highlighting its timeless appeal and beginner-friendliness.
Learn how to play “Matchbox”.
24. Elmore James: “It Hurts Me Too”
“It Hurts Me Too” is a blues standard, first recorded by Tampa Red but popularized by Elmore James. Elmore James’ version, with its distinctive slide guitar and soulful vocals, is a blues classic. This version uses only three chords (variations of A, D, and E), offering a great entry point into blues guitar for beginners and learning 12-bar blues structures.
Learn how to play “It Hurts Me Too” here.
25. Bonnie Raitt: “Something to Talk About”
Bonnie Raitt, known for her bluesy slide guitar and smooth vocals, is a Fender signature artist. “Something to Talk About,” a Grammy-winning hit, showcases her signature blend of blues, rock, and pop. Its moderate tempo and accessible chord progression make it a rewarding song for beginner guitarists to learn, offering a taste of blues-infused rock.
Learn how to play “Something to Talk About” here.
26. Muddy Waters: “Mannish Boy”
Muddy Waters’ “Mannish Boy” is a blues anthem with a powerful, iconic riff that drives the entire song. Reaching No. 5 on the Billboard R&B chart in 1955, this song is fundamental to blues guitar. Beginners can focus on learning the main riff and basic chord structure to grasp essential blues rhythm and feel.
Learn how to play “Mannish Boy” here.
27. Guitar Slim: “Things That I Used to Do”
Guitar Slim’s “Things That I Used to Do” is a New Orleans blues classic with a single chord progression using just three chords (E, A, and B7). This song topped the R&B charts in 1953 and remains a blues standard. Learning this song is perfect for beginner guitarists to master common blues chord progressions and develop their rhythm playing.
Learn how to play “Things That I Used to Do” here.
28. The Smithereens: “Blood & Roses”
The Smithereens’ “Blood & Roses” was a hit single from their debut album. Fender Play instructor Barrett Wilson guides beginners through this classic, which uses five chords (E minor, G, C, D, and A minor). This song is great for practicing pivot fingers and 8th note alternate strumming, helping beginners expand their chord vocabulary and strumming techniques.
Learn how to play “Blood & Roses” here.
Image alt text: Guitarist’s hands demonstrating chord changes on a guitar neck, emphasizing easy guitar chords for beginner songs.
29. Cracker: “Low”
Cracker’s “Low,” a hit from 1993, is driven by just four chords (D, C, E, and G). Reaching No. 3 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart, this song is catchy and fun to play. Beginners can focus on basic chord switching and maintaining a consistent strum pattern, making it a great song for building foundational skills.
Learn how to play “Low” here.
30. ZZ Top: “Tush”
ZZ Top’s “Tush” is a blues-rock anthem, named by VH1 as one of the greatest hard rock songs of all time. This 12-bar blues rocker takes inspiration from John Lee Hooker’s rhythm approach. Fender Play instructor Scott Goldbaum simplifies it into a campfire version using a three-chord (D, G, C) rhythm progression, making it accessible for beginners to learn a classic rock riff.
Learn how to play “Tush” here.
31. Hank Williams: “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)”
Hank Williams’ “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)” showcases his signature single-note picking and songwriting talent. This No. 1 Billboard Hot Country single has a simple progression and catchy melody. Using just two chords, it’s one of the easiest country songs for beginners to learn, perfect for practicing basic chord changes and country strumming.
Learn how to play “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)” here.
32. The Beatles: “Here Comes the Sun”
“Here Comes the Sun,” written by George Harrison, is a classic from The Beatles’ Abbey Road album. Alongside “Something” and “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” it’s one of Harrison’s most beloved compositions. Its uplifting melody and relatively simple chord structure make it a fantastic and rewarding song for beginner guitarists to learn from one of the most iconic bands in history.
Learn how to play “Here Comes The Sun” here.
33. The Cactus Blossoms: “Stoplight Kisses”
The Cactus Blossoms, a modern band with a vintage rockabilly sound, deliver upbeat energy with “Stoplight Kisses.” This jangly track is perfect for parties and dancing, and it’s playable with just four chords (E, A, B7, and E7). Beginner guitarists will find it a fun and accessible way to learn slightly more complex chord variations and rhythms within a rockabilly style.
Learn how to play “Stoplight Kisses” here.
34. Traditional: “I Shall Not Be Moved”
“I Shall Not Be Moved,” in the style of bluesman Mississippi John Hurt, offers a lesson in classic country blues songwriting. Covered by Johnny Cash, Son House, and Elvis Presley, this song blends folk, blues, and country. Featuring three basic chords and syncopated rhythms, it’s a great song for beginners to explore fingerpicking and more nuanced rhythmic patterns in a traditional style.
Learn how to play “I Shall Not Be Moved” here.
35. Paolo Nutini: “Candy”
Paolo Nutini’s “Candy,” a worldwide hit from 2009, has a neo-soul vibe that was instantly appealing. Often considered his signature song, “Candy” is reinterpreted by Fender Play instructor Scott Goldbaum with a folky twist. Beginners can learn alternate and syncopated strumming patterns while playing this soulful and contemporary tune.
Learn how to play “Candy” here.
36. Blue Öyster Cult: “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper”
Blue Öyster Cult’s “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper,” released in 1976, is their highest-charting single. Known for its haunting melody and lyrics about mortality, this song was named Song of the Year by Rolling Stone. Despite its eerie themes, the chord progression is relatively simple, making it an intriguing and accessible beginner guitar song for those interested in classic rock with a darker edge.
Learn how to play “Don’t Fear the Reaper” here.
37. Traditional: “Amazing Grace”
“Amazing Grace,” a hymn over 200 years old, remains deeply moving and universally recognized. This simplified version focuses on fingerpicking in 3/4 time using the chords A, A7, D, and E7. Beginner guitarists can learn basic fingerstyle techniques and play a song with profound historical and cultural significance.
Learn how to play “Amazing Grace” here.
38. Santana: “Oye Como Va”
“Oye Como Va,” written by Latin jazz and mambo musician Tito Puente in 1963, was popularized by Santana’s rock rendition. Santana’s version brought this Latin classic to a wider audience. While the full arrangement might be complex, beginner guitarists can learn simplified chord voicings and rhythms to experience Latin-infused rock and expand their musical horizons.
Learn how to play “Oye Como Va” here.
39. John Legend: “All of Me”
John Legend’s “All of Me,” originally piano-driven, translates beautifully to guitar. This ballad features beautiful open chords in the intro and verse (E minor, C, G, and D), with A minor added in the pre-chorus and chorus. Beginner guitarists can learn to play this modern love song, practicing gentle strumming and chord transitions within a contemporary pop context.
Learn how to play “All of Me” here.
40. Kris Kristofferson: “Me and Bobby McGee”
“Me and Bobby McGee,” written by Kris Kristofferson, was first released by Roger Miller in 1969 but became a massive hit with Janis Joplin’s version in 1971. Joplin’s iconic recording was made just days before her passing. This timeless classic has a relatively simple chord structure, making it a poignant and accessible song for beginner guitarists to learn and connect with a piece of music history.
Learn how to play “Me and Bobby McGee” here.
If you’re eager to explore hundreds more songs and guitar skills, click here to get a free trial of Fender Play.
For even more easy song suggestions, check out these curated lists: Easy Pop Songs | Easy Folk Songs | Easy Rock Songs | Easy Blues Songs | Easy Country Songs | Easy Songs for Electric Guitar | Easy Songs for Acoustic Guitar | Easy Ukulele Songs | Easy Bass Songs
