Unplugging from the electric world and embracing the acoustic guitar can be a transformative experience, even for seasoned electric guitarists. The raw, unadorned nature of acoustic instruments demands precision, clarity, and songwriting prowess, stripping away the safety net of distortion and effects. Acoustic arrangements can breathe new life into familiar tunes, offer a fresh perspective on covers, and truly highlight the essence of songwriting brilliance.
Whether you’re drawn to original compositions, unique covers, or reimagined arrangements, we’ve compiled a list of 30 of the best acoustic songs, chosen by music lovers like you, that are guaranteed to send shivers down your spine and inspire you to pick up your own acoustic guitar. Get ready to explore the beauty and power of unplugged music.
30. Queen – Love Of My Life
“Love Of My Life” by Queen stands as a powerful testament to the magic that can be created with just the human voice and an acoustic guitar. In this intimate performance, Freddie Mercury’s vocal delivery is both vulnerable and powerful, conveying a spectrum of emotions from hurt to hope. Brian May’s guitar work is nothing short of majestic, providing the perfect delicate and intricate accompaniment to Mercury’s iconic vocal melody. This acoustic masterpiece showcases Queen at their most raw and emotionally resonant, proving that sometimes, less is truly more.
29. The Smiths – Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want
Is “Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want” by The Smiths the ultimate sad song? Many would argue yes. Morrissey’s vocals are filled with a poignant ache, perfectly capturing the song’s melancholic mood. Johnny Marr’s understated acoustic arrangement barely rises above a whisper, mirroring the song’s quiet desperation and longing. This short, bittersweet, and utterly captivating track exemplifies miserablism at its finest, a beautifully crafted miniature of heartbreak.
28. John Lennon – Working Class Hero
John Lennon’s “Working Class Hero” represents the best of his post-Beatles work: sweary, angry, Dylan-esque, and driven by three chords and an acoustic guitar. This version of Lennon is arguably his most compelling. A scathing indictment of the class system, delivered with a raw and biting vocal performance, “Working Class Hero” possesses a powerful purity. And let’s not forget the subtle rebellion of Lennon dropping the f-bomb, adding an extra layer of edge to this already potent track.
27. Don McLean – American Pie
Forget Madonna’s pop rendition – Don McLean’s original acoustic version of “American Pie” remains the definitive recording and a timeless classic. This acoustic opus is a sprawling, lyrical journey through American cultural shifts, open to countless interpretations. While the lyrics of “American Pie” have been endlessly analyzed and debated, Don McLean himself offered a more pragmatic, tongue-in-cheek explanation of the song’s enduring appeal: “It means I don’t ever have to work again if I don’t want to,” he famously quipped.
26. Nick Drake – Pink Moon
The mystique surrounding Nick Drake’s life is inextricably linked to his music, and “Pink Moon” embodies this enigmatic quality. This song highlights Drake’s remarkable talent for crafting unforgettable chord progressions and his distinctive use of unique tunings, all while weaving hauntingly beautiful melodic lines that linger long after the song ends. “Pink Moon” serves as a poignant reminder of a prodigious talent tragically lost too soon, leaving behind a legacy of delicate and profound acoustic masterpieces.
25. Fleetwood Mac – Landslide
“Landslide” is one of Fleetwood Mac’s most enduring and frequently performed songs, charting Stevie Nicks’ tumultuous relationship with Lindsey Buckingham. Beneath Nicks’ emotionally charged vocals, Buckingham lays down layers of intricate and delicate fingerpicked guitar passages, creating a rich and textured acoustic landscape. While The Smashing Pumpkins delivered a faithful cover version, the original “Landslide” retains an unmatched emotional depth and intimacy, making it a quintessential acoustic ballad.
24. Alice In Chains – Down In A Hole (Unplugged)
Recorded during their iconic 1996 MTV Unplugged session, this stripped-down rendition of “Down In A Hole” showcases Alice In Chains at their most vulnerable and emotive. The song’s haunting fingerpicked minor chords and the intertwining, gravelly vocal harmonies of Layne Staley and Jerry Cantrell exemplify the raw power found in the softer side of ’90s grunge. This acoustic performance reveals the tender heart beneath the heavy exterior of Alice In Chains’ signature sound.
23. Bob Dylan – The Times They Are A-Changin’
“The Times They Are A-Changin'” by Bob Dylan is arguably the most timeless protest song ever written. Beyond its poetic and socially conscious lyrics, Dylan’s Celtic-infused strumming and simple yet powerful chord progression contribute to its enduring appeal. This anthem of social change resonates across generations, and its timeless message continues to hold relevance today. Our love for this Nobel Prize winner’s iconic song remains unwavering.
22. Stevie Ray Vaughan – Life By The Drop
“Life By The Drop” offers a rare acoustic glimpse into the artistry of electric guitar icon Stevie Ray Vaughan. Here, SRV trades his Stratocaster for a 12-string acoustic guitar, delivering a shimmering blues shuffle filled with soulful depth. Although penned by Doyle Bramhall and Barbara Logan, Stevie’s heartfelt vocals and signature blues embellishments transform this poignant ode to a life overshadowed by addiction into a deeply personal and moving performance that is unmistakably his own.
21. The Rolling Stones – Wild Horses
If you’ve ever struggled to replicate the acoustic guitar sound of “Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones, it might be because Mick Taylor employed Nashville tuning on the original recording. Or, perhaps, it’s just a testament to the song’s subtle complexity. Adding to the song’s intriguing history, Rolling Stones’ pianist Ian Stewart reportedly initially refused to record his part due to his aversion to minor chords. Regardless of the technical intricacies, “Wild Horses” remains a beautifully poignant and enduring acoustic classic.
20. Foo Fighters – Everlong (acoustic)
“Everlong” by Foo Fighters initially exploded onto the scene as a high-energy, full-band electric track on their 1997 album, The Colour And The Shape. However, its acoustic potential was unleashed when Dave Grohl delivered an impromptu solo acoustic rendition on Howard Stern’s radio show that same year. This spontaneous performance, featuring Grohl’s urgent strumming and emotionally raw vocals, became an instant sensation, spreading through radio airwaves and bootleg recordings worldwide. This acoustic version revealed the song’s powerful core and cemented its place as a fan favorite in both electric and unplugged forms.
19. Oasis – Wonderwall
When Noel Gallagher penned the four simple chords that form the backbone of “Wonderwall,” he likely didn’t foresee that it would become the quintessential starting point for countless beginner acoustic guitarists. This defining Oasis single embodies the sound of Britpop unplugged. Astonishingly, despite its immense popularity and cultural ubiquity, “Wonderwall” only reached number 2 on the UK singles chart, famously kept from the top spot by the unlikely duo of Robson & Jerome. Nevertheless, its status as a modern acoustic anthem remains unchallenged.
18. John Martyn – May You Never
“May You Never” by John Martyn is the sonic embodiment of a tough exterior shielding a bruised heart, a fitting description of the complex and deeply talented artist himself. Martyn’s unique emotional depth and phenomenal guitar skills are perfectly showcased in this world-weary yet beautiful piece of advice. “May You Never” stands as a testament to Martyn’s ability to convey profound emotion through masterful acoustic performance, offering solace and wisdom from a life lived with both triumphs and mistakes.
17. Kansas – Dust In The Wind
Legend has it that “Dust In The Wind” began as a simple fingerpicking exercise for Kansas guitarist Kerry Livgren. However, it blossomed into a prog-folk masterpiece when he presented it to the band. While the recording might evoke the shimmering sound of a 12-string guitar, its chorus-like effect is actually achieved by Livgren and fellow guitarist Rich Williams playing standard and Nashville-tuned acoustics simultaneously. This intricate layering of acoustic guitars creates the song’s signature ethereal and melancholic soundscape.
16. Eric Clapton – Layla (Unplugged)
Recorded in the wake of personal tragedy, Eric Clapton’s Unplugged album became one of the most commercially and critically successful of his career. This reimagined, stripped-down acoustic version of “Layla” is a standout track, transforming the electric rock anthem into a bluesy, introspective ballad. Ironically, this laid-back acoustic rendition famously won the Grammy for Best Rock Song in 1992, beating out Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” highlighting the diverse landscape of rock music at the time.
15. Radiohead – Fake Plastic Trees
Thom Yorke’s signature blend of social commentary and emotional vulnerability shines in Radiohead’s “Fake Plastic Trees.” While the song builds to a more expansive, non-acoustic climax, its acoustic foundation makes it endlessly rewarding to play solo on guitar. Hitting those soaring high notes in the vocal melody is a challenge for any singer, but mastering the acoustic guitar part is a deeply satisfying musical endeavor in itself.
14. Led Zeppelin – Going To California
Led Zeppelin, masters of both electric and acoustic soundscapes, deliver a wistful and charming gem with “Going To California.” Jimmy Page’s intricate acoustic guitar work is at the forefront, showcasing open tunings, mandolin textures, and a wealth of twangy acoustic goodness. Adding to the song’s unique character is Robert Plant’s unusually restrained and tender vocal delivery, creating a delicate and beautiful counterpoint to Zeppelin’s typically bombastic sound.
13. James Taylor – Fire And Rain
James Taylor, a master of acoustic storytelling, uses “Fire And Rain” as a cathartic exploration of personal loss and struggles. The song poignantly addresses the suicide of a childhood friend, as well as Taylor’s own battles with drug addiction and the pressures of fame. Adding to its musical pedigree, the legendary Carole King played piano on the track and was so moved by Taylor’s lyrics, particularly the line “I’ve seen lonely times when I could not find a friend,” that she penned her iconic response song, “You’ve Got A Friend.”
12. Neil Young – Heart Of Gold
Neil Young’s biggest hit, “Heart Of Gold,” ironically arose from a period of physical limitation. Recovering from a back injury that made standing and playing electric guitars difficult, Young gravitated towards acoustic instruments. “Heart Of Gold” emerged as one of several gentle acoustic songs he wrote in 1971. Despite its commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, Bob Dylan famously admitted his dislike for the song, jokingly complaining about its similarity to his own style. Regardless, “Heart Of Gold” remains a beloved acoustic classic.
11. Extreme – More Than Words
Admit it, you’ve played “More Than Words” at a party. It’s okay; everyone has. This saccharine-sweet, undeniably simple, yet strangely irresistible ballad is a surprising departure from Extreme’s typical “funked up fairytale” hard rock sound. Despite its potentially cheesy reputation, “More Than Words” has undeniably secured Extreme’s place in music history and remains a guilty pleasure for many, even after countless karaoke renditions.
10. Simon And Garfunkel – The Boxer
While “The Boxer” by Simon & Garfunkel sounds effortlessly gentle with its cascading guitar lines, its recording process was anything but smooth. Over 100 hours of studio time across multiple locations were dedicated to capturing the intricate fingerpicked guitar parts played by Paul Simon and session musician Fred Carter Jr. Featured on their swan song album, Bridge Over Troubled Water, “The Boxer” evolves from a lilting folk poem into a powerful and emotionally resonant anthem. While rumors initially suggested the lyrics were about Bob Dylan, Simon has stated the song is largely autobiographical, though Dylan himself seemed to embrace the former interpretation by covering “The Boxer” on his Self-Portrait album.
9. Bob Marley – Redemption Song
“Redemption Song” stands out in Bob Marley’s reggae catalog as an uncharacteristically poignant ballad. It’s also unique among his songs for featuring only Marley himself on vocals and acoustic guitar, creating an intimate and direct connection with the listener. Lyrically, the song is both powerfully political, referencing a speech by Marcus Garvey, and deeply personal, reflecting on Marley’s own mortality as he faced the cancer that would tragically claim his life a year later. “Redemption Song” is a raw and moving testament to Marley’s enduring spirit and message.
8. Neil Young – Needle And The Damage Done
“Needle And The Damage Done” by Neil Young is a cornerstone in the lineage of acoustic songs addressing the devastating consequences of heroin addiction. Young penned this stark and unflinching ballad after witnessing the drug struggles of his Crazy Horse bandmate Danny Whitten. The recorded version, featured on Young’s classic 1972 album Harvest, is taken from a live performance at UCLA’s Royce Hall, adding to the song’s raw and immediate emotional impact. Its simple acoustic arrangement amplifies the song’s powerful and tragic message.
7. Johnny Cash – Hurt
Few artists could reinterpret a song and make it their own as definitively as Johnny Cash, and his cover of Nine Inch Nails’ “Hurt” is a prime example. By 2002, Cash’s iconic bass-baritone voice had aged, losing some of its former power, but it was precisely this fragility and faded strength that gave his rendition of “Hurt” its profound impact. Coupled with Rick Rubin’s minimalist and biblical arrangement, Cash’s “Hurt” became a career-defining performance, a poignant epitaph to a legendary career, delivered with raw honesty and vulnerability.
6. Eric Clapton – Tears In Heaven
Considering the deeply tragic circumstances surrounding its creation, it’s remarkable that Eric Clapton was able to perform, record, and tour with “Tears In Heaven” at all. This profoundly personal song, born from unimaginable grief, became an instant classic upon release, and while often attempted at open mic nights, its emotional weight remains undeniable. While both the studio and Unplugged versions are powerful, “Tears In Heaven” stands as one of Clapton’s most enduring and emotionally resonant masterpieces, a testament to the healing power of music in the face of profound loss.
5. The Eagles – Hotel California (Unplugged)
The unplugged version of The Eagles’ “Hotel California” is undeniably lengthy, but it’s also packed with exceptional guitar work. From the Spanish-flavored intro to the tasteful and intricate solos, the acoustic arrangement highlights the song’s melodic richness and guitar virtuosity. While the inclusion of bongos might be a point of contention for some, the sheer quality of the acoustic guitar playing in this rendition more than compensates, making it a must-listen for any guitar enthusiast.
4. The Beatles – Blackbird
“Blackbird” is a solo acoustic folk performance by Paul McCartney, showcasing his delicate fingerpicking on a Martin D-28 guitar. Inspired by Bach’s Bouree In E Minor, McCartney crafted a moveable, two-finger pattern that forms the song’s harmonic foundation. The only other sounds on the track are McCartney’s rhythmic foot-tapping and subtle bird chirps added from a sound effects library. Lyrically, McCartney revealed that “Blackbird” was written as a symbolic response to the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, using the blackbird as a metaphor for the struggle for black liberation.
3. The Beatles – Here Comes The Sun
On The Beatles’ White Album, George Harrison began to emerge as a songwriting force, and by Abbey Road, he arguably reached his peak with gems like “Something” and “Here Comes The Sun.” This eternally optimistic ode to brighter days was written by Harrison in Eric Clapton’s garden while skipping out on Apple meetings. “Here Comes The Sun” is breezy, sweet without being saccharine, and brimming with memorable melodies. The track features complex time signature changes and showcases Harrison’s versatile acoustic guitar work, including a capoed part that contributes to its bright and uplifting key of A major.
2. The Beatles – Yesterday
In early 1965, Paul McCartney awoke with the melody for “Yesterday” fully formed in his mind, initially using the placeholder lyrics “scrambled eggs.” This melancholic and aching ballad of regret has become one of the most-covered songs in history, with over 2,500 recorded versions. Initially, The Beatles struggled to find the right arrangement, experimenting with various band configurations. Ultimately, producer George Martin suggested a solo performance by McCartney on an Epiphone Texan acoustic guitar, later adding a string quartet to enhance its emotional impact. The success of “Yesterday” marked a turning point for The Beatles, encouraging them to explore more diverse sounds and instrumental arrangements in their subsequent work.
1. Pink Floyd – Wish You Were Here
“Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd stands as a powerful and poignant lament for Syd Barrett, their former bandmate. Recorded during their post-Dark Side Of The Moon era, this towering tribute to a fallen comrade rightfully claims the top spot in this list of Best Acoustic Guitar Songs. “Wish You Were Here” encapsulates Pink Floyd’s ability to blend profound emotion with masterful musicianship, creating an enduring acoustic anthem that resonates with listeners on multiple levels.
