Learning guitar is an exciting journey, and what better way to start than by playing songs you love? Picking up your guitar and strumming along to familiar tunes is not only incredibly rewarding, but it’s also a fantastic method to solidify your foundational skills. While aiming for complex solos and intricate riffs is a great long-term goal, every guitar master started with the basics.
Whether you’ve got an acoustic or electric guitar in hand, diving into easy songs is the perfect launchpad. To get you started, we’ve compiled 40 simple songs that are ideal for beginners to master, especially when combined with resources like Fender Play. Learning these songs will build your confidence and keep you motivated as you progress on your guitar playing adventure.
Ready to play? Let’s explore these beginner-friendly tracks that will have you making music in no time. And if you’re eager to accelerate your learning, remember Fender Play offers a free trial to give you unlimited access to lessons and song tutorials.
1. J Mascis: “Feel The Pain”
J Mascis, known for his work with Dinosaur Jr., blends punk energy with classic rock influences. “Feel The Pain” showcases this unique sound, drawing inspiration from bands like Black Sabbath. This song is a great entry point into alternative rock guitar.
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 for the Britpop era. Its simple chord progression and memorable melody make it a must-learn for any beginner guitarist. This song is excellent for practicing basic strumming patterns.
Learn how to play “Wonderwall” here.
Image showing an acoustic guitar player practicing a song, perfect for illustrating easy guitar songs on acoustic.
3. The Bobby Fuller Four: “I Fought the Law”
Written by Sonny Curtis of the Crickets, “I Fought the Law” is a classic rebellious tune that has resonated across generations. Famously covered by The Clash, the Bobby Fuller Four’s version is a quintessential example of straightforward, energetic rock and roll. Its campfire-friendly strumming pattern, as taught by Matt Lake on Fender Play, makes it remarkably accessible for beginners.
Learn how to play “I Fought the Law” here.
4. Carrie Underwood: “Blown Away”
Carrie Underwood, often hailed as the modern “Queen of Country,” demonstrates her country songwriting prowess in “Blown Away.” This chart-topping hit, with its single chord progression, is surprisingly easy to learn and play. Mastering this Grammy-winning song is a fantastic way to get into country guitar.
Learn how to play “Blown Away” here.
5. Lukas Graham: “7 Years”
Danish pop band Lukas Graham achieved international fame with “7 Years,” a song that blends pop sensibilities with soulful storytelling. This worldwide hit, nominated for multiple Grammy Awards, is built around a simple, repeating chord structure, making it an engaging and achievable song for beginner guitarists.
Learn how to play “7 Years” here.
6. Brad Paisley: “He Didn’t Have to Be”
Brad Paisley, a master of the Telecaster and a defining voice in modern country music, offers a beginner-friendly hit with “He Didn’t Have to Be.” This gentle and heartwarming song, Paisley’s first No. 1 hit, is perfect for refining your strumming technique and getting comfortable with chord changes.
Learn how to play “He Didn’t Have to Be” here.
7. The Rolling Stones: “Honky Tonk Women”
“Honky Tonk Women,” a quintessential Rolling Stones track, blends rock swagger with a country twang. Topping charts in both the UK and US, this classic, penned by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, is built around the G chord. Learning the iconic intro riff, verses, and chorus in a beginner lesson makes this song a fun and manageable challenge.
Learn how to play “Honky Tonk Women” here.
8. Jimi Hendrix: “Purple Haze”
“Purple Haze” is a defining song in Jimi Hendrix’s legendary catalog and a cornerstone of psychedelic rock. Released as the second single by The Jimi Hendrix Experience, it introduced many to Hendrix’s revolutionary sound. While Hendrix is known for virtuosity, beginner lessons often focus on simplified chord versions of his iconic songs, making even “Purple Haze” approachable.
Learn how to play “Purple Haze” here.
9. Joni Mitchell: “Big Yellow Taxi”
Joni Mitchell’s “Big Yellow Taxi,” released in 1970, is a folk-pop classic with an environmental message. Inspired by a trip to Hawaii, this song uses a straightforward strumming pattern and a catchy melody. Its simplicity makes it an excellent choice for acoustic guitar beginners.
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 gem. Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, this song, with its three chords (E, A, and D major), is perfect for practicing strumming techniques. Fender Play instructor Nikki Stevens guides you through down strums and alternate strumming patterns to master this classic.
Learn how to play “Not Fade Away.”
11. The National: “I Need My Girl”
The National’s “I Need My Girl,” a poignant single from 2013, is known for its emotional depth and atmospheric sound. Despite its rich texture, beginner guitarists can access a simplified strumming version using just four chords: A minor, C, F, and G. Using a capo, as often demonstrated in beginner lessons, can further simplify playing this beautiful song.
Learn how to play “I Need My Girl” here.
Image featuring a close up of guitar chords being played, emphasizing the ease of learning chords for simple songs.
12. Leonard Cohen: “Hallelujah”
Leonard Cohen, a legendary songwriter and poet, is best known for his deeply moving anthem “Hallelujah.” Famously covered by Jeff Buckley and many others, “Hallelujah” is built on a beautiful and relatively simple chord progression. Learning this song is a rewarding experience for any beginner looking to explore meaningful and iconic music.
Learn how to play “Hallelujah” here.
13. The Animals: “It’s My Life”
“It’s My Life,” originally performed by The Animals in 1965, is an anthem of individuality and self-expression. Written by Brill Building songwriters Roger Atkins and Carl D’Errico, this song, alongside tracks from The Beatles and Bob Dylan, helped establish rock music as a voice for social consciousness. Its straightforward structure makes it a great song for beginners to learn about rhythm and timing.
Learn how to play “It’s My Life” here.
14. Grace VanderWaal: “Clay”
Grace VanderWaal, a ukulele prodigy, showcases her songwriting talent with “Clay,” a metaphorical song addressing bullying. Featured on her debut album Perfectly Imperfect, this heartfelt ballad utilizes just four easy open position chords: G, E minor, D, and C. Its simplicity and emotional resonance make it a compelling choice for beginner guitarists.
Learn how to play “Clay” here.
15. Delta Spirit: “California”
“California” served as Delta Spirit’s breakthrough single in 2012, gaining the indie rock band significant radio airplay. This track’s catchy pop sensibility, blended with roots-rock elements and a cool alternate strum, is driven by just four chords: A minor, C, G, and D. Fender Play instructor Jen Trani provides accessible lessons to get you playing this indie favorite quickly.
Learn how to play “California” here.
16. The Isley Brothers: “Shout”
“Shout” by The Isley Brothers, while only reaching No. 47 on the Billboard Hot 100 initially, became a gold-certified hit due to its enduring popularity. A staple at sporting events and celebrations, and even featured in movies like National Lampoon’s Animal House, “Shout” is instantly recognizable and fun to play. Its repetitive structure and energetic rhythm make it an engaging song for beginners to practice their strumming and chord transitions.
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. Despite its ominous lyrics, the song has an upbeat and catchy feel, driven by steady, basic strumming. This tune is an excellent starting point for learning fundamental chords (D, A, and G) and practicing smooth chord switching.
Learn how to play “Bad Moon Rising” here.
18. Billie Eilish: “Ocean Eyes”
“Ocean Eyes” marked Billie Eilish’s debut in 2015, initially released on SoundCloud. Written by her brother Finneas O’Connell, this hit song launched her path to global stardom. Its haunting melody and simple harmonic structure make it a captivating and surprisingly easy song for beginners to learn on guitar.
Learn how to play “Ocean Eyes” here.
19. Andra Day: “Rise Up”
Andra Day’s powerful anthem “Rise Up” is a platinum-selling single from her debut album Cheers to the Fall. Released in 2015, this song’s uplifting message and soulful melody are supported by a chord progression that is manageable for beginner guitarists.
Learn how to play “Rise Up” here.
20. Willie Dixon: “I Can’t Quit You Baby”
Willie Dixon, a blues legend, penned “I Can’t Quit You Baby,” first recorded by Otis Rush in 1956. Led Zeppelin famously covered this blues classic on their debut album in 1969, further cementing its status. This song is built around three basic chords (G, C, and D), making it an accessible entry point into blues guitar for beginners.
Learn how to play “I Can’t Quit You Baby” here.
Image showcasing a vibrant electric guitar, representing the accessibility of easy songs on electric guitar.
21. Butch Walker: “Chrissie Hynde”
Butch Walker’s “Chrissie Hynde,” from his 2014 album Afraid of Ghosts, is a folk-pop ballad with country undertones. This introspective song, referencing The Pretenders, offers a gentle and melodically rich experience for beginner guitarists.
Learn how to play “Chrissie Hynde here.
22. Frankie Ballard: “Helluva Life”
Frankie Ballard’s country hit “Helluva Life,” released in 2013, celebrates gratitude and the good things in life. Certified Gold, this popular track is built upon a chord structure that is easy to grasp for those new to guitar. Its positive message and approachable chords make it a feel-good song to learn.
Learn how to play “Helluva Life” here.
23. Carl Perkins: “Matchbox”
Carl Perkins’ rockabilly classic “Matchbox,” needing only three chords (A, D, and E), is fantastic for practicing alternate strumming and solidifying your rhythm skills. Originally recorded in 1956 and even covered by The Beatles, “Matchbox” remains a timeless and accessible rock and roll tune for beginners.
Learn how to play “Matchbox”.
24. Elmore James: “It Hurts Me Too”
“It Hurts Me Too” is a blues standard that offers a great entry point into the genre. While first recorded in 1940 by Tampa Red, Elmore James popularized the lyrics we know today. His version, a hit in the early ’60s, uses only three chords, with variations like A5, A6, D5, D6, E5, and E6. Exploring these chord variations can introduce beginners to blues nuances while keeping the song structure simple.
Learn how to play “It Hurts Me Too” here.
25. Bonnie Raitt: “Something to Talk About”
Bonnie Raitt, renowned for her blues guitar prowess and soulful vocals, is a true icon. As Fender’s first female signature artist, her impact is undeniable. “Something to Talk About,” a Grammy-winning single from her commercially successful albums Nick of Time and Luck of the Draw, remains a beloved track and is surprisingly accessible for beginner guitarists looking to learn a classic.
Learn how to play “Something to Talk About” here.
26. Muddy Waters: “Mannish Boy”
Muddy Waters’ “Mannish Boy,” recorded in 1955, is a blues masterpiece. Reaching No. 5 on the Billboard R&B chart and staying there for six weeks, its iconic bluesy riff permeates the entire song. Learning “Mannish Boy” is a fantastic way for beginners to delve into blues rhythm and riff-based playing.
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. Its simple, repeating chord progression, using just three chords (E, A, and B7), allows beginners to focus on rhythm and feel. This track topped the R&B charts in 1953 and remains a foundational blues song to learn.
Learn how to play “Things That I Used to Do” here.
28. The Smithereens: “Blood & Roses”
The Smithereens’ “Blood & Roses,” the first single from their debut album Especially For You, is a power-pop gem. Fender Play instructor Barrett Wilson breaks down this classic, which uses five chords (E minor, G, C, D, and A minor). Lessons often focus on techniques like pivot fingers and 8th note alternate strumming, making it a great song for solidifying intermediate beginner skills.
Learn how to play “Blood & Roses” here.
Image illustrating common guitar chords, reinforcing the idea of learning chords for easy songs.
29. Cracker: “Low”
Cracker’s “Low,” a hit from 1993, is a rocker that’s surprisingly easy to play. Using only four chords (D, C, E, and G), this song reached No. 3 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart. Beginner lessons often focus on basic chord switching and maintaining a consistent strum pattern while playing “Low.”
Learn how to play “Low” here.
30. ZZ Top: “Tush”
ZZ Top’s “Tush,” from their album of the same name, is a blues-rock anthem. VH1 recognized it as one of the greatest hard rock songs of all time. While ZZ Top is known for their guitar prowess, beginner versions of “Tush” often simplify it to a campfire-friendly three-chord (D, G, C) rhythm progression, as taught by Fender Play instructor Scott Goldbaum.
Learn how to play “Tush” here.
31. Hank Williams: “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)”
Hank Williams, a pioneer of country guitar, helped define the genre with his single-note picking style. “Jambalaya (On the Bayou),” a No. 1 Billboard Hot Country single, showcases his songwriting and simple song structures. With just two chords, this catchy and upbeat tune is a country classic that’s perfect for beginner guitarists.
Learn how to play “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)” here.
32. The Beatles: “Here Comes the Sun”
“Here Comes the Sun,” written by George Harrison and featured on The Beatles’ Abbey Road album, is an iconic and uplifting song. Alongside “Something” and “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” it stands as one of Harrison’s most beloved compositions from the Beatles era. While the full song has complexities, beginner arrangements focus on simplified chord versions, making it an achievable Beatles song to learn early on.
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 and catchy tunes like “Stoplight Kisses.” This jangly track, perfect for parties and good times, can be played with just four chords: E, A, B7, and E7. Its energetic rhythm and simple structure make it a fun and accessible song for beginners.
Learn how to play “Stoplight Kisses” here.
34. Traditional: “I Shall Not Be Moved”
“I Shall Not Be Moved,” a traditional song with roots in blues, folk, and country, has been covered by numerous artists, including Mississippi John Hurt, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley. Mississippi John Hurt’s version is particularly influential, showcasing classic country chords and songwriting. With three basic chords and syncopated rhythms, this song offers a rich musical experience while remaining manageable for beginners.
Learn how to play “I Shall Not Be Moved” here.
35. Paolo Nutini: “Candy”
Paolo Nutini’s “Candy,” a worldwide hit from 2009, brought a fresh neo-soul vibe to the music scene. Often considered his signature song, “Candy” translates beautifully to guitar. Fender Play instructor Scott Goldbaum’s lessons often provide a folky interpretation, unlocking the Sunny Side Up single using alternate and syncopated strumming patterns in a beginner-friendly way.
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, became their highest-charting single and an enduring classic. Despite its haunting lyrics about mortality, the song’s melodic structure and chord progression are surprisingly accessible. Rolling Stone named it Song of the Year upon release, highlighting its impact and musicality. Beginner guitarists can learn simplified versions to capture the essence of this iconic track.
Learn how to play “Don’t Fear the Reaper” here.
37. Traditional: “Amazing Grace”
“Amazing Grace,” a hymn over 200 years old, continues to resonate deeply with listeners. Simplified guitar arrangements often focus on fingerpicking in 3/4 time, using chords A, A7, D, and E7. Learning “Amazing Grace” on guitar is a rewarding way to explore fingerstyle playing and learn a timeless melody.
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, gained widespread popularity through Santana’s rendition. Santana’s version, blending rock with Latin rhythms, made this song a global hit. Beginner guitarists can learn simplified chord versions and strumming patterns to capture the Latin groove of “Oye Como Va.”
Learn how to play “Oye Como Va” here.
39. John Legend: “All of Me”
John Legend’s “All of Me,” originally a piano ballad, translates beautifully to guitar. The intro and verse sections feature open chords like E minor, C, G, and D, with A minor added in the pre-chorus and chorus. Its emotional depth and accessible chord structure make “All of Me” a popular choice for beginner guitarists looking to play contemporary hits.
Learn how to play “All of Me” here.
40. Kris Kristofferson: “Me and Bobby McGee”
“Me and Bobby McGee,” penned by Kris Kristofferson, was first released by Roger Miller in 1969. However, it was Janis Joplin’s iconic version that topped the U.S. singles chart in 1971, becoming a posthumous hit. Joplin recorded her unforgettable vocals just days before her passing, adding to the song’s legendary status. “Me and Bobby McGee” is a timeless classic with a chord structure that is within reach for beginner guitarists.
Learn how to play “Me and Bobby McGee” here.
Ready to explore even more songs and skills? Fender Play offers a vast library of lessons and song tutorials to keep you progressing on your guitar journey. Click here for a free trial and unlock your musical potential.
For more beginner-friendly song recommendations, check out these articles: Easy Pop Songs l Easy Folk Songs l Easy Rock Songs l Easy Blues Songs l Easy Country Songs l Easy Songs for Electric Guitar l Easy Songs for Acoustic Guitar l Easy Ukulele Songs l Easy Bass Songs.
