Learning guitar is an incredibly rewarding journey, and one of the most motivating ways to start is by playing songs you love. Forget complicated solos and intricate fingerpicking for now. When you’re just beginning, the best approach is to dive into Easy Songs On Guitar that you can quickly master. This builds confidence, develops essential skills, and most importantly, keeps you inspired to continue learning.
This curated list of easy guitar songs is perfect for absolute beginners. We’ve selected tunes across various genres, from classic rock anthems to soulful ballads, all requiring just a handful of basic chords and simple strumming patterns. Whether you’ve just picked up an acoustic guitar or are eager to plug in your electric, these songs will get you playing music in no time. Plus, for each song, we’ll point you to resources like Fender Play, where you can find detailed lessons to guide you step-by-step.
So, grab your guitar, tune up, and let’s get started with these fantastic easy songs on guitar that are guaranteed to make your learning experience fun and fulfilling!
Easy Acoustic Guitar Songs for Beginners
Acoustic guitars are fantastic for beginners. They are straightforward, portable, and great for learning fundamental chords and strumming. These acoustic tracks are excellent starting points on your guitar journey.
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” offers a unique sound that’s surprisingly accessible for beginners. Inspired by Black Sabbath, this song uses relatively simple chord progressions, making it a great introduction to alternative rock on guitar.
Learn how to play “Feel The Pain” here.
2. Oasis: “Wonderwall”
“Wonderwall” is an iconic 90s anthem from Oasis’ album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? This globally recognized hit is not only catchy but also remarkably easy to play on guitar. Its simple chord structure and strumming pattern make it a go-to choice for beginners eager to learn a popular song. Mastering “Wonderwall” is a rite of passage for any aspiring guitarist.
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 song. Made famous by The Bobby Fuller Four and later covered by The Clash, this track’s enduring appeal lies in its simple yet powerful structure. Matt Lake from Fender Play simplifies it further into a campfire-friendly strumming song, perfect for practicing steady rhythm and basic chords.
Learn how to play “I Fought the Law” here.
4. Carrie Underwood: “Blown Away”
Carrie Underwood, often hailed as the “Queen of Country,” brings a modern edge to country music. “Blown Away,” a chart-topping hit, is surprisingly manageable for beginner guitarists. With just one chord progression to learn, you can play along to this Grammy-winning country song. It’s a fantastic way to explore country music on guitar while keeping things simple.
Learn how to play “Blown Away” here.
5. Lukas Graham: “7 Years”
Danish pop band Lukas Graham achieved international fame with “7 Years,” a soulful and reflective hit from 2015. This song, nominated for multiple Grammy Awards, is built on a simple chord foundation, making it accessible for beginners. Learning “7 Years” allows you to play a contemporary pop song while practicing essential guitar chords and transitions.
Learn how to play “7 Years” here.
6. Brad Paisley: “He Didn’t Have to Be”
Brad Paisley, a renowned Telecaster master, is a defining voice in modern country music. “He Didn’t Have to Be,” his first No. 1 hit, is an easy-to-learn song showcasing his songwriting talent. This gentle and melodic track is perfect for refining your strumming technique and getting comfortable with basic chord changes in a country style.
Learn how to play “He Didn’t Have to Be” here.
7. Joni Mitchell: “Big Yellow Taxi”
Joni Mitchell’s “Big Yellow Taxi,” from her album Ladies of the Canyon, is a classic folk-pop song with an important environmental message. Inspired by a trip to Hawaii, this song is known for its catchy melody and straightforward guitar chords. It’s an excellent choice for beginners wanting to explore folk music and practice fingerstyle or basic strumming.
Learn how to play “Big Yellow Taxi” here.
8. Buddy Holly: “Not Fade Away”
Buddy Holly’s “Not Fade Away,” recorded in 1957 with The Crickets, is a rock and roll classic. Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, this song is characterized by its rhythmic drive and simple chord progression. Fender Play instructor Nikki Stevens demonstrates how to play it using down strums or a more percussive alternate strum, making it adaptable for various beginner levels.
Learn how to play “Not Fade Away.”
9. The National: “I Need My Girl”
The National, known for their introspective indie rock, offer a surprisingly accessible song for beginners with “I Need My Girl.” Jen Trani from Fender Play simplifies this 2013 single to just four chords (A minor, C, F, and G). Using a capo further simplifies playing, making it an ideal song for practicing chord transitions and melancholic strumming.
Learn how to play “I Need My Girl” here.
10. Leonard Cohen: “Hallelujah”
Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” is a deeply moving and iconic song, famously covered by Jeff Buckley. Despite its emotional depth, the basic chord structure of “Hallelujah” is relatively simple, making it approachable for beginner guitarists. Learning this song is a rewarding experience, allowing you to play a beautiful and meaningful piece of music early in your guitar journey.
Learn how to play “Hallelujah” here.
11. Grace VanderWaal: “Clay”
Grace VanderWaal, a ukulele prodigy, showcases her songwriting talent with “Clay.” This heartfelt ballad from her debut album Perfectly Imperfect uses just four easy open position chords: G, E minor, D, and C. “Clay,” with its metaphorical lyrics about bullying, is a gentle and emotionally resonant song perfect for practicing basic chords and gentle strumming on acoustic guitar.
Learn how to play “Clay” here.
12. Delta Spirit: “California”
Delta Spirit’s “California” was a breakthrough single for the indie rock band. This 2012 track, with its blend of indie pop and roots rock, features a catchy melody and a cool alternate strumming pattern. Using only four chords (A minor, C, G, and D), as taught by Fender Play instructor Jen Trani, “California” is a fun and upbeat song to learn early on.
Learn how to play “California” here.
13. Creedence Clearwater Revival: “Bad Moon Rising”
Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Bad Moon Rising” is a classic rock tune with a deceptively upbeat sound despite its ominous lyrics. This timeless song is characterized by its steady, basic strumming and simple chord progression (D, A, and G). “Bad Moon Rising” is an excellent starting point for learning basic chords, chord switching, and classic rock rhythm guitar.
Learn how to play “Bad Moon Rising” here.
14. Andra Day: “Rise Up”
Andra Day’s “Rise Up,” a platinum-selling single from her debut album Cheers to the Fall, is an empowering and soulful anthem. This song, released in 2015, is built around a simple chord structure, making it accessible for beginners. “Rise Up” is a great choice for practicing soulful strumming and learning a modern hit song on acoustic guitar.
Learn how to play “Rise Up” here.
15. Butch Walker: “Chrissie Hynde”
Butch Walker’s “Chrissie Hynde” is a folk-pop ballad from his album Afraid of Ghosts. This country-tinged song is a tribute to The Pretenders’ frontwoman and features a simple, introspective melody. “Chrissie Hynde” is perfect for beginners looking to play a heartfelt ballad with straightforward chords and gentle strumming.
Learn how to play “Chrissie Hynde here.
Easy Electric Guitar Songs for Beginners
Electric guitars can be incredibly exciting for beginners. While often associated with complex techniques, many iconic electric guitar songs are built on simple foundations. These selections are perfect for getting started with electric guitar.
16. The Rolling Stones: “Honky Tonk Women”
The Rolling Stones’ “Honky Tonk Women” is a legendary track that topped charts in both the UK and US. Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, this song is built around the G chord and a memorable intro riff. This lesson focuses on teaching the intro riff, verse, and chorus, making it a classic and achievable song for electric guitar beginners.
Learn how to play “Honky Tonk Women” here.
17. Jimi Hendrix: “Purple Haze”
Jimi Hendrix’s “Purple Haze” is a groundbreaking psychedelic rock anthem. Released in 1967, it introduced many to Hendrix’s revolutionary sound. While Hendrix is known for virtuosity, the basic rhythm guitar parts of “Purple Haze” are surprisingly accessible to beginners, focusing on power chords and a driving rhythm. It’s a fantastic entry point into rock history and electric guitar playing.
Learn how to play “Purple Haze” here.
18. The Animals: “It’s My Life”
The Animals’ “It’s My Life” is a 1965 hit that champions individuality. Written by Brill Building songwriters Roger Atkins and Carl D’Errico, this song is known for its powerful vocals and driving rhythm. The guitar part is built upon relatively simple chord progressions, making it a great choice for electric guitar beginners interested in classic rock with a message.
Learn how to play “It’s My Life” here.
19. The Isley Brothers: “Shout”
The Isley Brothers’ “Shout” is a song with incredible longevity and universal appeal. While it peaked at No. 47 on the Billboard Hot 100 initially, it became a gold single due to its enduring popularity at events and in pop culture. Known for its call-and-response structure and energetic vibe, “Shout” is surprisingly simple on guitar, focusing on rhythmic strumming and basic chords, perfect for electric guitar beginners wanting to play a fun, party song.
Learn how to play “Shout” here.
20. Billie Eilish: “Ocean Eyes”
Billie Eilish’s debut song “ocean eyes,” originally released on SoundCloud in 2015, launched her to global stardom. Written by her brother Finneas O’Connell, this hit song is characterized by its haunting melody and atmospheric sound. Despite its sophisticated production, the guitar chords for “ocean eyes” are beginner-friendly, making it a great way to learn a modern pop hit on electric guitar.
Learn how to play “Ocean Eyes” here.
21. Willie Dixon: “I Can’t Quit You Baby”
Willie Dixon’s blues classic “I Can’t Quit You Baby” was first recorded by Otis Rush in 1956 and later famously covered by Led Zeppelin on their debut album. This blues standard is built on a foundation of three basic chords (G, C, and D), making it an excellent entry point to blues guitar. Learning “I Can’t Quit You Baby” allows beginners to explore blues rhythm and chord progressions on electric guitar.
Learn how to play “I Can’t Quit You Baby” here.
22. Frankie Ballard: “Helluva Life”
Frankie Ballard’s “Helluva Life” is a country song released in 2013 that celebrates gratitude. This popular track, certified Gold, is known for its positive message and catchy melody. The guitar part is built around simple chord progressions, making “Helluva Life” an accessible and uplifting song for electric guitar beginners to learn.
Learn how to play “Helluva Life” here.
23. Carl Perkins: “Matchbox”
Carl Perkins’ “Matchbox” is a rockabilly gem from 1956, famously covered by The Beatles. Requiring only three chords (A, D, and E), “Matchbox” is perfect for practicing alternate strumming and solidifying your rhythm playing on electric guitar. Its upbeat tempo and classic rock and roll feel make it a fun and engaging song for beginners.
Learn how to play “Matchbox”.
24. Elmore James: “It Hurts Me Too”
Elmore James’ version of “It Hurts Me Too” is a blues standard with roots dating back to 1940. This version, popularized by James in the early 60s, uses only three chords, with variations (A5, A6, D5, D6, E5, and E6) offering a slightly bluesier feel. “It Hurts Me Too” is a fantastic introduction to blues guitar techniques and chord variations for electric guitar beginners.
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 vocals, is a Fender signature artist. “Something to Talk About,” a hit single from her Grammy-winning albums, showcases her smooth style. While Raitt is a guitar virtuoso, the rhythm guitar part for “Something to Talk About” is beginner-friendly, focusing on strumming and basic chord progressions in a blues-rock style, making it a rewarding challenge for electric guitar beginners.
Learn how to play “Something to Talk About” here.
26. Muddy Waters: “Mannish Boy”
Muddy Waters’ “Mannish Boy,” recorded in 1955, is a blues classic known for its iconic bluesy riff. Reaching No. 5 on the Billboard R&B chart, this song’s main riff drives the entire track. While the full song incorporates blues techniques, beginner guitarists can focus on learning the main riff and basic chord structure, providing a great introduction to electric blues guitar.
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 hit from 1953. This song is built around a single chord progression using just three chords (E, A, and B7). Learning “Things That I Used to Do” provides a solid foundation in a standard blues chord progression and rhythm playing on electric guitar.
Learn how to play “Things That I Used to Do” here.
28. The Smithereens: “Blood & Roses”
The Smithereens’ “Blood & Roses,” from their debut album Especially For You, is a power pop hit. Fender Play instructor Barrett Wilson breaks down this classic, which uses five chords (E minor, G, C, D, and A minor). This lesson focuses on pivot fingers and 8th note alternate strumming, offering slightly more advanced beginner techniques within an accessible song structure on electric guitar.
Learn how to play “Blood & Roses” here.
29. Cracker: “Low”
Cracker’s “Low,” a 1993 hit, is a rock song that utilizes just four chords (D, C, E, and G). Reaching No. 3 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart, “Low” is known for its catchy chorus and alternative rock vibe. This lesson focuses on basic chord switching with a consistent strum pattern, making it excellent practice for electric guitar beginners wanting to play 90s alternative rock.
Learn how to play “Low” here.
30. ZZ Top: “Tush”
ZZ Top’s “Tush,” from their album Tush, is a hard rock classic. VH1 ranked it as one of the greatest hard rock songs of all time. This 12-bar blues rocker, inspired by John Lee Hooker, is broken down by Fender Play instructor Scott Goldbaum into a campfire version using three chords (D, G, C). Learning “Tush” is a fun way for electric guitar beginners to explore blues-rock rhythm and power chords.
Learn how to play “Tush” here.
31. Hank Williams: “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)”
Hank Williams’ “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)” is a country classic that showcases his single-note picking and songwriting skills. This No. 1 Billboard Hot Country single features a simple chord progression and catchy melody. Using only two chords, “Jambalaya” is an incredibly accessible and fun country song for electric guitar beginners to learn, focusing on rhythm and basic chord changes in a country style.
Learn how to play “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)” here.
32. The Beatles: “Here Comes the Sun”
The Beatles’ “Here Comes the Sun,” written by George Harrison for the Abbey Road album, is a universally loved and uplifting song. Alongside “Something” and “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” it’s one of Harrison’s most celebrated compositions. While the full song has intricate parts, simplified versions focusing on basic chords and strumming are readily available and perfect for acoustic or electric guitar beginners wanting to learn a Beatles classic.
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, offer “Stoplight Kisses.” This upbeat and jangly song is perfect for parties and social gatherings. Using only four chords (E, A, B7, and E7), “Stoplight Kisses” is a fun and energetic song for electric guitar beginners to learn, exploring a rockabilly style rhythm and chord changes.
Learn how to play “Stoplight Kisses” here.
34. Traditional: “I Shall Not Be Moved”
“I Shall Not Be Moved,” in the version popularized by bluesman Mississippi John Hurt, is a folk and blues classic. Covered by Johnny Cash, Son House, and Elvis Presley, this song spans genres and generations. Featuring three basic chords and syncopated rhythms, “I Shall Not Be Moved” is a valuable song for electric guitar beginners to learn, exploring folk, blues, and country styles within a simple structure.
Learn how to play “I Shall Not Be Moved” here.
35. Paolo Nutini: “Candy”
Paolo Nutini’s “Candy,” a worldwide hit from 2009, blends neo-soul with a catchy melody. This song, possibly Nutini’s most recognizable, is given a folky spin in Fender Play lessons by instructor Scott Goldbaum. Unlocking the Sunny Side Up single with alternate and syncopated strumming, “Candy” offers a slightly more rhythmically challenging but still beginner-friendly song for electric guitar.
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 vibe and lyrical themes of mortality, this song was named Song of the Year by Rolling Stone. Despite its eerie atmosphere, the basic guitar chords for “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” are quite simple, making it a unique and recognizable song for electric guitar beginners to learn, exploring arpeggiated chords and a classic rock ballad style.
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. “Amazing Grace” provides a beautiful and gentle fingerpicking exercise for acoustic or electric guitar beginners, focusing on melody and basic fingerstyle patterns.
Learn how to play “Amazing Grace” here.
38. Santana: “Oye Como Va”
Santana’s rendition of “Oye Como Va,” originally written by Tito Puente, is a Latin rock classic. This song, popularized by Santana, blends Latin jazz and rock influences. While the full arrangement is complex, simplified guitar versions focusing on rhythm guitar parts and basic chords are accessible for electric guitar beginners wanting to explore Latin-infused rock rhythms.
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. “All of Me” is a modern ballad that’s surprisingly easy to play on guitar, allowing beginners to learn a contemporary hit and practice open chords and emotional strumming.
Learn how to play “All of Me” here.
40. Kris Kristofferson: “Me and Bobby McGee”
Kris Kristofferson’s “Me and Bobby McGee,” first released by Roger Miller, became a massive hit with Janis Joplin’s iconic version. Joplin recorded her vocals for this timeless classic just days before her passing. “Me and Bobby McGee” is a country-folk classic with a simple chord structure, making it a rewarding and emotionally resonant song for guitar beginners to learn.
Learn how to play “Me and Bobby McGee” here.
Start Your Guitar Journey Today!
Learning easy songs on guitar is the perfect way to kickstart your musical journey. This playlist offers a diverse range of genres and styles, all simplified for beginner guitarists. By mastering these songs, you’ll build essential skills, develop your musical ear, and gain the confidence to tackle more challenging pieces in the future.
Ready to dive deeper and unlock even more songs and guitar skills? Fender Play offers a comprehensive and engaging learning experience tailored for beginners. Click here for a free trial and access hundreds more songs and lessons!
Explore even more easy songs by genre: 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.
