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Guitar Songs

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Who doesn’t love music? When people think of learning to play music on guitar, they often think you need to know something complex. Learning songs on guitar is one of the best things you can do to improve your playing.

If you’ve ever tried learning to play the guitar, you know that it can be a time-consuming process. Learning the notes on a guitar fretboard, holding the instrument properly, learning how to tune the instrument: all of these things take time.

Fortunately, anyone can learn how to play the guitar, whether you’re a beginner or an expert, have small fingers, or don’t know how to read music. It doesn’t matter if you’re right-handed or left-handed or which age group you belong to. All you need is a guitar and some practice!

If you’re just learning to play the guitar, here are seven fun guitar songs that will challenge your skills and entertain you as you learn.

7 Fun Guitar Songs Even a Beginner Can Master

1. Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life) by Green Day

The beat of Green Day’s “Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)” is a classic song with a lot of movement; great for showing off your guitar skills. It also has catchy lyrics and a rhythm that beginners can quickly learn. The song starts with power chords and then kicks into the verse. The verse can be played using two different strumming patterns: down-strumming, which is when you strum down on every beat, or alternating, which is when you play two down-strums followed by one up-strum.

It’s ideal for the kind of music they’re known for, which usually relies on catchy guitar riffs, strong drum beats, and vocals that are simple enough to follow along.

2. Wonderwall by Oasis

Wonderwall by Oasis is one of the most iconic songs of the 90s, and for a good reason. It’s full of memorable riffs and rhythms, and if you’re a guitarist, you can play the song quickly. The basic intro consists of just three chords repeatedly played as the song progresses. It has a classic rock feel and would sound great if you played it loud for your friends.

The song has a specific beat and can be a little tricky at first because three parts are going simultaneously and all have their particular movements and tones, but it’s so fun once you get the hang of it.

3. Mr. Brightside by The Killers

Mr. Brightside by The Killers is a classic rock song recorded in 2004, and it’s famous for its distinctive guitar parts and upbeat tempo, perfect for learning on guitar. It stays at the same tempo throughout the song, and it’s a real challenge to play. When played on a guitar, the beat is described as slow and relaxing.

You can play Mr. Brightside on electric, acoustic, or bass guitar. It sounds perfect on an electric guitar because it has a lot of exciting chords.

4. Sweet Child O’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses

Sweet Child O’ Mine is a rock classic that has been a go-to song for beginner guitarists since it was released in 1988. This song is a lot of fun to play on guitar, and as long as you remember the chord progression and strumming pattern, you’ll be able to play this one with relative ease. It’s also important to remember that strumming is key in this song, so don’t be afraid to use your wrist!

It starts with a simple version of the riff that repeats for the first minute. Then it becomes more complex and interesting. After that, there are a few more minutes of the same variation, but a little faster, adding a lot more movement and changing chords.

5. Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen

Bohemian Rhapsody is a song by the British rock band Queen for their 1975 album A Night at the Opera. This song is one of the most popular and well-known rock songs in history. It’s famous for being over six minutes long and for its unusual chord progression and rhythm section, featuring a complex piano part and a vast range of vocals spanning from a bass range to a soprano range. The song is known for its famous closing riff played on electric guitar.

Bohemian Rhapsody is remarkable for its extensive, epic build and an unforgettable refrain. The chords are easy to learn, and the intro is pretty easy to play with just one finger (though once the song starts getting into that first verse, you’ll need at least two fingers and maybe a capo).

6. Blackbird by The Beatles

Playing Blackbird by The Beatles is an easy song to learn on guitar. It’s a great beginner song that uses the open E string, which means you only have to use the top five strings of your guitar. This song is based on a simple blues progression, and it has a fun, funky rhythm that will get you grooving in no time! It has a distinct rhythm, kind of like a slow, legato tapping pattern, but the timing is 6/8.

If you want to learn the rhythm, close your eyes and tap your foot along with the song. If it feels like you’re stressing out about tapping your foot in time with the music, open your eyes and make sure that you’re in time with the music.

7. Three Little Birds by Bob Marley

Three Little Birds by Bob Marley is a popular song that lots of people love to play on the guitar. It has a reggae-influenced beat with a melody that mainly uses eighth and quarter notes, with some dotted quarter notes thrown in for good measure. It’s a dance type of song, so it doesn’t have a lot of rests or long stretches without any notes. It’s fun to play and easy to learn!

The song starts with a quick downstroke strumming pattern that repeats throughout the song. The first two beats have the same chord, followed by a quick upstroke strum on the third beat of each measure. The fourth beat is where the chord changes and stays for four beats before changing again on the fifth beat.

Takeaway

Learning to play guitar is fun, rewarding, and something anyone can do with practice. There are hundreds of free guitar tutorials online, from video or text instructions that break down the learning process into small steps. Plus, you can listen to all types of music covers and tutorials on playing each song using Youtube.

If you want to learn new songs, be sure to check out the list of recommended songs above. Give them a try – you may be surprised at how quickly you learn to play! Good luck, and happy playing!

The best way to motivate yourself to practice guitar is by playing easy guitar songs you love. That’s why beginners with a more eclectic musical taste often hit road bumps.

Music is about self-expression. As simple as strumming a classic pop song might be, it won’t fit every player’s personality. The following list of 30 easy indie guitar songs is suitable for players of all skills who wish to show off their independent spirit and taste.

Top 30 Indie Guitar Songs

1. Beach House – Space Song

The shoegaze sounds of Beach House have been a favorite of indie fans for over a decade. Their catalog runs the gamut from more rock-centric fare to spacey soundscapes, but Beach House never stray too far from their indie ethos.

Though drum machines, keyboards, and slide guitar make Beach House’s “Space Song” sound like an ethereal symphony, the song is simple to play. Players familiar with chord shapes in the key of D will have no trouble with this five-chord masterpiece.

2. Bonny Doon – A Lotta Things

Hailing from Detroit, Michigan, the members of Bonny Doon brought their experiences in the DIY punk scene to their current indie project. Though the word “pastoral” is bandied about frequently to describe acoustic projects, the term is especially applicable to Bonny Doon, who wrote Longwave in the Michigan woods.

Bonny Doon’s memorable melodies over simple chord progressions are perfect for beginning guitarists. Nowhere is this more apparent than the track “A Lotta Things,” which features three open chords and a little attitude. This song never requires more than three fingers, making it accessible to everyone.

3. Arcade Fire – The Suburbs

No band captured the bombast and spirit of indie music in the ‘00s, quite like The Arcade Fire. Their live show is legendary and features the ensemble strumming and banging any instrument imaginable. So it might come as a surprise to find that the titular track of their iconic album The Suburbs is a breeze to play.

With a capo on the second fret, “The Suburbs” is played entirely with open chords in the key of C. The finger shapes of the chords Am and E are the same aside from their string placement, so the quick chord changes in the verse aren’t hard to play at all.

4. Sharon Van Etten – Seventeen

No matter their age, everyone can relate to change. Sharon Van Etten’s impassioned song “Seventeen” is an ode to the old times, but with a bite. “Seventeen” is an easy song on guitar despite its quicker tempo, as the chord progressions that lie beneath the beat are in halftime.

“Seventeen” is a fun song to play along with for those that want to rock out. Its slow build progresses to a passionate crescendo, allowing for a big vocal performance. And with its simple open chords, players won’t worry about their fingers while singing.

5. Belle and Sebastian – Get Me Away From Here, I’m Dying

Belle and Sebastian’s quirky acoustic songs caught on with music fans immediately. Beginning as a school project in Glasgow, Scotland, the group quickly found success with their literate songwriting and turned the project into a full-fledged band.

“Get Me Away From Here, I’m Dying” from Belle and Sebastian’s classic album If You’re Feeling Sinister is one of their most recognizable songs. Fans of the Scottish indie group will love that this is also easy to play. Just capo the first fret, and all you’ll need to know are a few chords in the key of F.

6. Galaxie 500 – Strange

Though Galaxie 500 was only a band for four years, their three albums would help define indie pop, and its subgenre slowcore, for decades to come. While the band had marginal success during their career, new generations continue to find inspiration from their work.

Galaxie 500’s most enduring song is 1989’s “Strange.” The lyrics tell the story of an outsider looking in while a slinky guitar energizes the hazy slowcore tempo. Galaxie 500 hit upon the universal theme of isolation with four simple chords – making it easy for everyone to play along.

7. Cat Power – I Don’t Blame You

Under the moniker Cat Power, singer-songwriter Chan Marshall has helped lay the groundwork for independent female singer-songwriters for two decades. Cat Power’s individualistic approach to music has yielded many memorable songs, from sparse acoustic covers to full blow stabs at Memphis soul.

With 2003’s You Are Free, Cat Power began making her mark in the mainstream. Though tracks like “I Don’t Blame” were still as independently minded as ever. Performed solo on piano, this song is fun for beginners to practice more intermediate rhythms as the chords are simple.

8. Father John Misty – Real Love Baby

As a drummer and vocalist, Josh Tillman contributed to the complex vocal harmonies and song structures of the successful indie-folk group Fleet Foxes. Going solo as Father John Misty, Tillman played more with classic American song structures, and the result was some of the most resonant songwriting of the 2010s.

Taking a less is more approach, Father John Misty’s “Real Love Baby” is a three-chord exercise in masterful songwriting. This song is easy enough for any beginner to tackle, but the catchy melody about love is universal enough to resonate with any audience.

9. Wilco – I Am Trying to Break Your Heart

From pioneering alt-country to dabbling in sound collage, Wilco has spent their career marrying classic pop with experimental sounds. Nowhere is this more evident than their classic 2002 album Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, which Rolling Stone named one of the greatest albums of all time.

Yankee Hotel Foxtrot starts with the percussively dense “I Am Trying to Break Your Heart,” an opening salvo fit for the record to come. Novice guitar players will be surprised to learn that the song is only three chords. Just play A, Em, and D throughout to play along with this classic track.

10. Real Estate – Talking Backwards

Breezy indie-pop outfit Real Estate has made a career out of their subtle yet muscular guitar heroics. Their fluid lead guitar lines and reverb-drenched backing tracks make for the type of melancholy tunes perfect for a walk around the block or a coffee at the neighborhood cafe.

Guitarists looking for an accessible but intricate indie song need to look no further than Real Estate’s “Talking Backwards.” This song is perfect for beginners looking to practice quick chord changes while maintaining simple finger shapes. The song’s lead guitar line will offer a challenge for guitarists as they continue to improve their skills.

11. Jenny Lewis – Just One of the Guys

As a childhood actor turned frontwoman for indie darlings Rilo Kiley, Jenny Lewis has spent most of her life in the spotlight. Lewis calls upon this experience in her solo song “Just One of the Guys,” creating a devastating account of a female reconciling her existence in traditionally male-dominated spaces.

Jenny Lewis takes the D, A, and E chords to their snarling limit on “Just One of the Guys,” playing with a slightly stilted rhythm that drives the song. “Just One of the Guys” is a simple song that translates particularly well to electric guitar.

12. The Shins – New Slang

After Natalie Portman’s Garden State character claimed the song would “change your life,” The Shins’ “New Slang” became one of the biggest indie songs of its era. From its success in film to the legion of twee indie bands that sprung up in its wake, “New Slang” paved the way for a mainstream reckoning with the independent.

The song sounds as fresh today as it did twenty years ago, thanks in no small part to the classic nature of its composition. This classic indie track is a simple open chord progression in the key of Am, giving it a timeless feeling and making it accessible to beginning guitarists.

13. Bright Eyes – Devil Town

Bright Eyes’ Conor Oberst was championed as the “next Bob Dylan” by the music press at the dawn of the new Millenium. It’s easy to see why – his literate lyrics and nasally voice make for easy comparison. Though the similarities are present, Oberst’s commitment to independent music set him on a path much less traveled than Dylan.

Bright Eyes’ cover of outsider artist Daniel Johnston’s acapella song “Devil Town” shows Oberst’s independent ethos in one three-minute burst. “Devil Town” is a captivating song about the evil in the world and the darkness inherent in oneself. With only four chords, it’s great for beginners looking to exercise their demons.

14. The Gun Club – Mother of Earth

As the late 70s LA punk scene splintered between hardcore and rockabilly, The Gun Club insisted on a back-to-basics approach to their already raw sound. Taking from traditional American blues and folk, the band forged ahead with the groundwork for the eventual Americana genre.

The final track on their seminal 1982 album Miami, “Mother of Earth,” is as easy to play as they come. Four open chords in the key of Em tell this tale of sadness on the open road. Once players conquer the chords, they’ll be in for an additional challenge by tackling the lead guitar lines.

15. The Lumineers – Ho Hey

The Lumineers are one of the most successful acts to emerge from the folk revival of the 2010s. Throughout their critically acclaimed and commercially successful career, the band has stayed true to its roots, topping the charts while remaining independent.

In true folk tradition, four chords in the key of C was all it took for The Lumineers to take over the world with their hit single “Ho Hey.” This song is simple enough for beginners to play while featuring quick chord changes in each verse to develop players’ agility.

16. Beck – Golden Age

Though Beck is a musical chameleon, his work has always remained true to an independent spirit. Whether it’s electro-pop, anti-folk, or traditional singer-songwriter fare, Beck approaches every project with creativity that surpasses most artists who have come before.

“The Golden Age” kicks off Beck’s Sea Change with an organic take on his usual spacey sound. Instead of samples, drum machines, and synthesizers, Beck reflects on heartbreak with four chords on acoustic guitar and a reverb-drenched slide guitar. For the heartbroken indie guitarist, it doesn’t get any easier.

17. Marlon Williams – Dark Child

It would be too simple to classify Marlon Williams as a country artist, though some have tried as much. The reality is that Williams draws inspiration from classic genres while taking a fresh approach to songwriting. His gothic, atmospheric acoustic songs are wholly unique and ear-catching.

Like the best of roots music, Marlon Williams’ “Dark Child” is a simple chord progression with a lot to say. Any guitarist that knows a few open chords will be able to tackle this brooding indie song immediately.

18. Feist – 1234

Leslie Feist became an international sensation with her single “1234,” though the success didn’t come overnight. As a solo artist and a member of the Broken Social Scene’s collective of like-minded Canadian artists, Feist had toiled away in the underground years before catapulting up the charts.

It’s hard to deny the immediately catchy “1234.” With its handclaps, banjos, and sing-along chorus, the song is a shot of pure joy. It’s also a great indie song for beginners. All you need are a few chords in the key of D, and you’ll be counting along in no time.

19. Wreckless Eric – Whole Wide World

As part of the 70s UK punk label Stiff Records roster, Wreckless Eric embodied the spirit of new wave before it became fashionable across the pond. With his ragged voice and wry lyricism, Wreckless Eric’s records were as energetic and carefree as his time spent playing in pubs.

Though he never broke big, Wreckless Eric had a sleeper hit with his single “Whole Wide World.” Considered by many to be one of the best punk singles ever released, the song caught on with Millenials after its inclusion in the movie Stranger Than Fiction. Beginners will love strumming away to this two-chord punk anthem.

20. Whitney – No Woman

Chicago, Illinois’ Whitney combines folk, soul, and classic pop to create their uniquely 21st-century indie pop blend. While the results are easy on the ears, Whitney’s eclecticism remains steadfastly independent as they push their sonic palette with each album.

“No Woman,” the standout track from their 2016 debut Light on the Lake, shows the band mix strings, keyboards, horns, and non-rock percussion over five simple acoustic chords. The inclusion of an Fm7 chord needn’t worry novice players as it’s merely an A with the F# played on the low E string.

21. The Breeders – Drivin’ on 9

By the time college rock darlings the Pixies broke up, bassist Kim Deal was already at work with her new project, The Breeders. The group scored a surprise hit with their single “Cannonball,” thanks to the massive success of grunge bands like Nirvana.

For all their distortion, The Breeders could write something sweet, too. Near the end of their breakout album, Last Splash, Deal and company show their softer side with the beautifully simple “Drivin’ on 9.” Using just four chords in the key of G, this is the quintessential easy indie song.

22. Neutral Milk Hotel – In the Aeroplane Over the Sea

Perhaps no group has come to embody indie music like Neutral Milk Hotel. Their landmark album, In the Aeroplane Over the Sea, continues to find new audiences through playlists and word of mouth twenty years after its initial release.

Neutral Milk Hotel’s “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea” encapsulates everything songwriter Jeff Mangum does well, with obtusely dense lyrics bolstering klezmer-inspired strings and horns. But at its root, “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea” shares the most common elements of classic songs: four open chords and a story.

23. The War on Drugs – Red Eyes

The War on Drugs make the type of indie rock you can wrap yourself in. That’s not to say that their music is cozy – more appropriately, it’s densely layered. Their washed-out, wall-of-sound approach to recording lends their shoegaze songs a classic feeling.

Many novice guitarists might hear The War on Drugs and think that the songs are impossible to play. Upon further inspection, players find most of their songs build upon simple chord progressions. With their track “Red Eyes,” five open chords are all it takes to play along to this indie epic.

24. Angel Olsen – Shut Up Kiss Me

Angel Olsen’s arrival on the indie rock scene signaled a fresh songwriting voice with attitude to boot. Olsen’s fiercely independent style is unapologetically personal. The resulting songs are as confessional as they are cathartic.

Singing “Shut Up Kiss Me,” Olsen refuses to lose her lover without a fight. The aggressive nature of her appeal stands apart from the usual love lost narrative and makes the song’s four open chords resonate as she sings, “Shut up, kiss me, hold me tight.”

25. Daniel Johnston – True Love Will Find You in the End

Daniel Johnston became an indie darling in the 80s when he passed along homemade cassettes while he worked as a McDonald’s janitor. Though mainstream success eluded Johnston, his work continues to inspire each new generation of indie musicians.

Johnston’s signature track, “True Love Will Find You in the End,” is a heartbreaking yet hopeful declaration of the power and importance of love. These universal themes pair nicely with their simple open chord treatment, making “True Love Will Find You in the End” an essential indie song to learn on guitar.

26. The Magnetic Fields – I Don’t Believe You

The Magnetic Fields are the main outlet of the amazingly prolific songwriter Stephin Merritt. For three decades, The Magnetic Fields have produced a literate brand of ennui-inspired indie-pop, inspiring countless acts along the way.

“I Don’t Believe You” is a classic Merritt tale of a narrator that refuses to believe his partner loves him despite their claims. The song will prove a workout for a beginning guitarist with seven chords, but they’re all simple shapes in the key of D.

27. The Jesus and Mary Chain – Just Like Honey

The Jesus and Mary Chain’s dense layers of electric guitar would go unnoticed during their initial run in the 80s, but their influence on the next decade of shoegaze and indie rock proved tremendous.

Beginning indie guitar players that like cranking the volume on their amps or twisting the knobs on their fuzz pedals will no doubt love The Jesus and Mary Chain’s “Just Like Honey.” Songs don’t get any simpler than this G to C chord progression. By the time players throw in one of the song’s few D chords, they’ll feel like a pro.

28. The Jam – That’s Entertainment

Mixing mod with punk, The Jam was a uniquely British group. Though they would find mainstream success with their 1982 album The Gift, The Jam always embodied the energy and politics of punk. Incorporating soul and Motown into their later work, The Jam would pave the way for more soulful interpretations of indie-rock.

One of The Jam’s catchiest tunes is “That’s Entertainment.” This song is a good choice for punks just starting to learn with only an acoustic guitar. The song is in the key of Am, which is the relative minor of C, making the four chords here are all the easy shapes from the key of C.

29. The Cure – Friday I’m in Love

For a pioneering goth band, The Cure wrote some very catchy songs. Their tuneful songwriting helped elevate their profile from the 80s underground to international stardom.

Far from goth, “Friday I’m in Love” has more in common with the indie-pop sounds of modern-day groups with its jangling guitar line. The root chords of the songs will be easy for players familiar with the key of D, making this cheery goth anthem accessible for most.

30. Yeah Yeah Yeahs – Gold Lion

As part of the iconic indie scene that defined New York in the 00s, Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ scrappy, punk-infused pop songs were the soundtrack for America’s biggest city at the turn of the Millenium. The band would stumble upon a hit with their ballad “Maps,” but they never lost their independent streak.

“Gold Lion” is Yeah Yeah Yeahs taking punk song structure and layers it with classic pop sounds. The organ and electric guitar are aggressive in the mix, and the drum pattern is reminiscent of Queen’s “We Will Rock You.” The result is an acoustic adjacent three-chord anthem fun for anyone to play.

The Final Word on Easy Indie Guitar Songs

With four decades of independent music to pull from, it’s time these indie classics make their way into the canon of beginning guitar instruction. Strumming away with these indie songs will satisfy those with even the most discerning taste, ensuring that practice is fun.

Music is an incredible tool for self-expression. During our darkest moments, singing along with others helps galvanize a feeling of belonging. Through music, we feel less alone, knowing others have felt the same emotions.

We have compiled a list of the top 50 sad guitar songs for beginners to complement our list of easy guitar songs. Taking subject matter and skill range into account, we ensured all you’ll need is a reference guide to look up chords, a little patience, and a box of tissues. Before long, you’ll be playing and singing those blues away.

50 Sad Songs to Play on Guitar

1. Mazzy Star – Fade Into You

Mazzy Star’s shoegaze classic “Fade Into You” is an easy song for beginners because of its repetitive nature. Switching back and forth between the same chords will help players develop their muscle memory for the chords.

The only part of “Fade Into You” that might be tricky is the Bm chord. This chord requires extra strength from the fingers to push down multiple strings. The tempo is slow enough that players will have enough time to shape the chord.

2. Johnny Cash – Hurt

Originally an industrial rock song by Nine Inch Nails, Johnny Cash turned “Hurt” toward more frail territory. This song is in the key of Am, which gives the chords their melancholy sound. Learning “Hurt” should be easy for beginners already familiar with chords in the key of C, as Am is the relative minor to C.

The slight picking pattern that opens “Hurt” is not necessary to replicate to enjoy the song, though it can serve as a fun challenge for players once they master the song’s chord changes and strumming pattern.

3. Smashing Pumpkins – Disarm

No one captures angsty sadness like Billy Corgan and the Smashing Pumpkins. The simple strumming pattern and tortured vocal delivery of “Disarm” make it perfect for beginners to belt out on those particularly tough days.

There are a few exotic chords in “Disarm,” though they aren’t so challenging that they should scare away interested players. The Cadd9 is the same finger shape as a G chord, making the switch very simple. The Dsus and the Dsus/F# are much the same, only the first finger moves.

4. Green Day – Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)

This one is for all the sentimental punks out there. The classic and timeless quality of Green Day’s “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” is due to its simplicity. Though the recorded version features strumming that hits the bass note of each chord before strumming, this technique is simple to pick up.

Aside from the strumming, “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” is a good option for beginners because Green Day utilizes five chords in the song. It might seem intimidating at first, but the tempo is slow enough to accommodate beginners. Once mastering the piece, players will have added a few new chords to their repertoire.

5. Adele – Hello

Adele’s “Hello” is an absolute tear-jerker. Though Adele’s version is on piano, the chords translate easily to guitar and make this a fantastic option for guitar players that want to push their vocal chops.

Some players might find a little difficulty with the Bm barre chord, but it only takes a little practice to master this chord. Adele’s “Hello” is played slowly, allowing for an easier transition to this chord. Once players have the muscle memory down, they’ll be able to play any song with a Bm.

6. Radiohead – Creep

Radiohead rocketed to fame with “Creep,” their anthem of alienation and longing. Though Radiohead would eventually record some of the most acclaimed and artistic rock music of their generation, “Creep” remains a celebrated part of their catalog to this day.

Guitar players that advance in their skills may want to play “Creep” in the arpeggiated style on the record, though this is not a requirement for beginners looking to enjoy playing the basics of the song. No one is going to be worried about exactly how you play it when they’re singing along.

7. Pearl Jam – Last Kiss

Pearl Jam breathed new life into the oldies tune “Last Kiss” at the end of the 20th century. Their simple take on this tale of teen tragedy flew up the charts and became their highest-charting single to date. No doubt that part of this success is due to the pure simplicity of the song.

With its simple chord progression and strumming pattern, songs don’t get easier to play than “Last Kiss.” It is perfect for any beginner that wants to learn guitar basics while playing a sad song.

8. Olivia Rodrigo – Drivers License

With its massive popularity, Olivia Rodrigo’s “Drivers License” has become a standard sad song taught to heartbroken musicians. The song is a piano-driven ballad with expert production flourishes on the record, but its devastating narration lends itself to simple guitar accompaniment.

Though the chords to “Drivers License” are a step above entry-level, the tempo is slow enough that the changes between chords allow enough time to make the switches for beginners. Two of the three barre chords are also on the same fret. This proximity makes the transition between Bb and F in chorus reasonably simple.

9. Tom Petty – Free Fallin’

It is surprising how nostalgic and melancholy Tom Petty’s “Free Fallin’” sounds since it’s written in a major key. Petty is a master at getting the most from simple chords, and “Free Fallin’” is a great song for beginners to get used to quick chord changes.

To play the song in the key of F like the record, players will need to use a capo on the 8th fret. Playing this high on the neck could prove difficult for players with big fingers, as the frets get a little smaller further up the neck. The good news is you can play the song in any key by moving the capo. This change can also help singers, as some of the notes Petty hits at the end are pretty high.

10. The Head and the Heart – Rivers and Roads

All The Head and the Heart needed were three chords and the truth with their melancholy “Rivers and Roads.” While lightly strumming and singing of friends moving away and family members in different states, The Head and the Heart manage to maximize three easy chords in the key of C into a beautifully sad anthem.

Beginning guitarists will love the repetitive and simple chord structures here. “Rivers and Roads” is a good option for groups to sing as it builds to a climax with vocal harmonies and background vocals.

11. Sufjan Stevens – Casimir Pulaski Day

Sufjan Stevens’ tale of coming-of-age with a young person fighting cancer captures a genuine sincerity that was often missing in the teen tragedy tales of the 50s and 60s. The simple chords and pure vocal delivery make this accessible for all, adding to the song’s power.

On record, listeners will notice that Stevens plays hammer-ons while he strums. This technique is not difficult to learn and makes simple-sounding songs seem more impressive. However, hammer-ons are not essential to the performance of the song. As players advance in skill, they can choose to pursue hammer-ons.

12. Leon Bridges – River

Leon Bridges captured something truly remarkable with his song “River.” The song captures the best of soul, gospel, and folk music rolled into one. It evokes the struggles of the civil rights movement and the struggle of personal spirituality. The result of this nostalgically truthful song is powerful melancholia.

Players will love “River”’s simple strumming pattern and open chords. For all of its emotional power, the song is one of the easiest to play on the list. Beginning guitarists will be learning their instruments with this song for decades to come.

13. Joan Osborne – One of Us

Joan Osborne became synonymous with the growing throngs of female singers in the late 20th century. Her hit “One of Us” showed a nuanced reading of mortality and religion through a modern lens, and by taking a look at the state of the world surrounding us, Osborne shed light on the human condition.

Though its subject matter is heavy, “One of Us” is a simple song to play. Be wary of versions that forgo the use of a capo, as these require advanced chords. Place a capo on the second fret to play the song with the open chords.

14. Bob Dylan – Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door

Only Bob Dylan could take a song about mortality and turn it into a beautiful sentiment. The narrator of “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” is at the end of their rope, but with a sing-along chorus that utilizes the imagery of Heaven, Dylan makes the sadness beautiful.

Like Dylan’s best work, “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” is simple to play. Its five chords are open, and its tempo is slow. Add to the mix that this song is incredibly recognizable after being covered many times through the years, and this song is a great addition to a beginning guitarist’s songbook.

15. Nirvana – Dumb

Kurt Cobain became the voice of a generation with the unexpected success of grunge act Nirvana. Though known for throat-shredding rock songs, the Nirvana catalog has several mellow, sad songs. “Dumb” is a perfect example of the self-effacing style typified by the rock music of the era, and it is an easy one to play, too.

Do not be intimidated by charts that show the song needing upwards of nine chords. The E5 chord is only used as the very last chord of the song and is unnecessary. The Esus4, intimidating as it sounds, is merely an A without the pointer finger. “Dumb” can be played by a beginning guitarist as long as they take it slow and be patient.

16. Chris Isaak – Wicked Game

While most listeners will remember the slinky lead guitar lines of Chris Isaak’s “Wicked Game,” the song has simple chords. It’s in a minor key that, matched with lyrics that speak of the dangers of love, give “Wicked Game” a sadly creepy feeling.

The most challenging chord here is the Bm — a barre chord that requires some finger strength. Fortunately, there are only three chords that make up the song. With “Wicked Game”‘s repetitive nature, players will build up their finger strength in no time.

17. The Bangles – Manic Monday

While it might be surprising to see the peppy “Manic Monday” on a list of sad songs, all one has to do is pay attention to the lyrics to see that this is a song that finds the singer swept away by the maddening mundaneness of life. The Bangles do a great job of injecting this song with popstar level pep, but just beneath that shiny surface is a sadness lurking.

“Manic Monday” is an easy song to play, and an audience will most likely recognize it and sing along. If you’re looking to up the ante on the sadness, you can play “Manic Monday” at a slightly slower tempo. The effect chills the song and catches listeners off guard. Plus, it makes the chord changes a little easier to handle.

18. T. Rex – Cosmic Dancer

Glam rock superstar Marc Bolan always had a knack for writing effortlessly cool songs. “Cosmic Dancer” is no exception, though it’s a much less rocking affair than a song like “Bang a Gong (Get it On).” This mellow tone makes it perfect for rock-inclined beginning guitar players.

The strumming pattern can be a little tricky if sticking to the recorded version, but that isn’t going to make or break this song. With its simple open chords and repetitive structure, “Cosmic Dancer” is a great melancholy song to help teach guitar.

19. Death Cab for Cutie – I Will Follow You into the Dark

Death Cab for Cutie helped usher in an era of mainstream acceptance of indie rock with their heartbreakingly sincere ballad “I Will Follow You into the Dark.” The song straddles the line between folk and emo effortlessly and makes sadness as comfortable as an oversized sweater.

Guitarist Ben Gibbard hits bass notes before his strums, though beginners can skip this step to simplify the song. There are a few more difficult chord transitions in this one, so it will take a little patience. Considering how great you’ll feel playing it, though, it will be well worth the additional effort.

20. Blink 182 – Adam’s Song

Somewhat of an anomaly for prankster pop-punk’s Blink 182, “Adam’s Song” packs an emotional wallop. The song follows a narrator struggling with mental health and mortality and sheds light on issues often overlooked in traditional pop music.

Though the band recorded “Adam’s Song” as a rocking ballad, it translates well to a solo guitar with chords in the beginner-friendly key of C. Very green players might want to practice the song at a slower tempo first.

21. Third Eye Blind – Jumper

If you lived through the late 90s, you heard “Jumper.” Third Eye Blind was poised to take over the world with the song, even with its serious subject matter of suicide.

“Jumper” is one of the more challenging songs to make our list, though it isn’t so hard that a bit of practice won’t conquer the song. The D11 chord will take a little time to master as it requires a barre with three fingers shaping the chord. However, the agility earned from mastering this chord will go a long way in any guitar player’s journey.

22. The Rolling Stones – Ruby Tuesday

Many beginning guitarists might be surprised to see that “Ruby Tuesday” is a simple song. Keith Richards has quite the reputation among guitar players, but that doesn’t mean that his songwriting is overly complicated.

“Ruby Tuesday” features quick changes between simple chords, making this song accessible to beginners while also providing great practice at chord changes. Singing the iconically wistful song is sure to feel good regardless of your mood.

23. The Cranberries – Zombie

The Cranberries’ “Zombie” is a rocking protest song written about a terrorist bombing that killed two children in the UK in 1993. With the song’s background and lyrics like, “Another mother’s breaking heart is taking over,” The Cranberries turned their grief into artistic expression.

“Zombie” is a straightforward four-chord song that shouldn’t be too difficult for a beginner to tackle. The D/F# might cause a slight issue as it is a barre chord, but the shape is similar to the C, so it won’t take long to commit it to memory.

24. Neil Young – Heart of Gold

Neil Young’s “Heart of Gold” is another example of a simple song written by a guitar master. All it took was five simple chords in a minor key, and Young was off to the races writing a mellow ballad about searching for goodness in the world.

Beginning guitarists will have no problem with the simple open chords of “Heart of Gold,” though the strumming could be challenging to master. It’s always okay to simplify strumming patterns while mastering chord changes. Eventually, the muscle memory will kick in, allowing players to focus more on strumming patterns.

25. Brandi Carlile – The Story

Longing for one specific lover, Brandi Carlile tells the story of a love destined to be in “The Story.” What makes this song feel particularly sad is the passionate vocal delivery of Carlile, making this a great sad song for guitarists that also want to showcase their singing.

The majority of “The Story” relies on simple open chords. The only exception comes in the form of an F#m, but this transition is slow enough that beginners will find their way to it.

26. John Denver – Leaving on a Jet Plane

John Denver penned a classic goodbye with his 1969 hit “Leaving on a Jet Plane.” If it weren’t for the subject matter, it might be easy to confuse the track with a sunny love song – the major-key chord progression gives the tune a sunny disposition. But once the listener realizes that the singer doesn’t know when they’ll be back, this goodbye takes on a tragic quality.

“Leaving on a Jet Plane” is one of the most accessible songs on the list. It is highly recommended for beginners as a quick introduction to a few simple open chords to help build confidence.

27. The Beatles – Eleanor Rigby

When a song starts with the lyric, “Ah, look at all the lonely people,” you know you’re in for a sad one. The Beatles don’t disappoint with “Eleanor Rigby,” their classic song about the loneliness of humanity. Since “Eleanor Rigby” is a song by one of the most famous bands of all time, you might be surprised to find that this classic is easy to play.

Though there are tabs that offer chord variations to help match the string arrangement, at its root, “Eleanor Rigby” is just C and Em over and over again. This simplicity makes the song entry-level. Beginning players can impress friends by busting out a Beatles song after a few lessons.

28. Alicia Keys – Fallin’

Toxic heartbreak is the story behind Alicia Keys’ “Fallin’,” a story that almost everyone can relate to. This universal tale helped launch Keys’ career and gave us a more upbeat take on the classic theme of love gone wrong.

Alicia Keys is a piano player by trade, but “Fallin’” is an example of a piano ballad that translates well to solo guitar. This song will be enticing to guitarists just starting as it only has two chords. The Bm7 is trickier than your average open chord, but since it’s one of two chords in the song, players will master it in no time.

29. Simon and Garfunkel – The Sound of Silence

Simon and Garfunkel’s “The Sound of Silence” is a poetic tale of a world where people can’t seem to make connections with one another. The universal themes of loneliness and longing are presented through a dreamlike narrative, making “The Sound of Silence” highly interpretive and sorrowful.

Though “The Sound of Silence” is in the key of Ebm, the chord shapes will be easy for beginning guitar players familiar with the key of C by placing a capo on the 6th fret.

30. Nirvana – Something in the Way

Nirvana closed out their breakthrough album Nevermind with an absolute dirge in “Something in the Way.” Between the barely audible vocals of Kurt Cobain and the two-chord back and forth of Em and C, this is about as easy and sad as it gets. Perfect for this list. Just be sure to hug someone afterward.

31. Dolly Parton – I Will Always Love You

Long before Whitney Houston transfixed the world with her powerful vocal performance on the torch song “I Will Always Love You,” Dolly Parton cut a country version that’s every bit as sad.

Dolly Parton’s original version has a simpler chord progression than Houston’s, making it a perfect sad song for beginning guitarists. A capo is necessary to play along with the record, but the chord shapes are ones that most guitarists learn early on.

32. Bob Dylan – Blowin’ in the Wind

Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind” stands as one of the most culturally significant songs ever. Taking a simple chord structure and melody and applying it to the social turmoil of the day, the song has become synonymous with a tumultuous time in American history.

The underlying melancholy of “Blowin’ in the Wind” speaks to the difficulty felt during times of unrest – making the song just as relevant today as it was nearly sixty years ago. The simple chord progression makes this Dylan tune a quick study for beginning guitarists.

33. U2 – With or Without You

U2 was one of the biggest rock groups of the 80s, and “With or Without You” was their first US number-one single. When most people think of this song, they hear The Edge’s innovative lead guitar. What many listeners miss is how simple the song is.

The entire composition is D, A, Bm, and G repeated. This repetition helps beginners commit the chord shapes to memory. Singing along to Bono’s anguished vocals never felt as good as when you’re able to do it while learning this iconic ballad.

34. Bruce Springsteen – Atlantic City

Bruce Springsteen wrote dozens of songs revolving around the quiet desperation of humanity. This exploration is why his work resonates so deeply; it has influenced how America tells its story. In the case of “Atlantic City,” these stories can sometimes reflect the storm clouds of economic doom.

Because Springsteen is steeped in Americana, his songs often have a traditional country or folk structure. These structures make “Atlantic City” easy for novice guitarists, with its four chords practically begging to be played.

35. John Prine – Angel From Montgomery

In “Angel From Montgomery,” songwriter John Prine captures the ennui of an old woman recalling pieces of her life. John Prine never veers into overwrought sentimentality. Instead, he rests the story gently in the romantically small moments of his character.

As a country artist, Prine was adept at writing simple yet enduring songs. Many songs in his catalog are like this, but “Angel From Montgomery” stands out as one of his best-loved tunes. All you’ll need for this song is a few standard chords in the key of G and a wry smile.

36. Joni Mitchell – Big Yellow Taxi

Joni Mitchell penned “Big Yellow Taxi” as an ode to environmental conservation. As a protest song and a lament for times past, “Big Yellow Taxi” is not only the most well-known of Mitchell’s vast canon but also more universally understood than her usual personal songwriting.

For beginning guitarists that feel a sense of dread over the environment, “Big Yellow Taxi” is a perfect choice. A capo on the second fret puts this song in the key of E, but the shapes players will be using are in the key of D.

37. Johnny Cash – Ring of Fire

This song about the all-consuming destruction of a person by the object of their desire is less a love song and more a cautionary tale. Though “Ring of Fire” was popularized by Johnny Cash, his wife, June Carter Cash, wrote this song. She felt that being around Johnny during his wilder years was a dangerous place to be.

Like many great country songs, “Ring of Fire” consists of the same three chords, making it a great choice to play for the greenest of guitar players. This track is a great one to play after being burned by love, and it’s so easy that anyone can play it.

38. Pearl Jam – Elderly Woman Behind the Counter

“Elderly Woman Behind the Counter” finds Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder stuck with a sense of deja vu upon seeing someone. The feeling is so strong, Vedder thinks they might have once loved one another. The track fades out with the sad refrain, “hearts and thoughts they fade away.”

The tempo of “Elderly Woman Behind the Counter” is a little quick, so beginners might need to slow the song down a little at first to make all their changes. Once the chords are committed to muscle memory, playing at full speed will help develop better coordination in strumming.

39. Bush – Glycerine

Though Bush was one of the most successful alternative rock bands of the late 90s, they found great success with their ballad “Glycerine.” While deciphering the lyrics might be a little difficult, it’s clear that love has gone wrong, and the singer is at risk of losing it all. It doesn’t get much sadder than that.

For the lovesick guitarist, “Glycerine” is a classic four-chord rock song to strum away. Players learning power chords will particularly enjoy learning the song, as this is how the band played it on their album.

40. The Verve Pipe – The Freshmen

The Verve Pipe’s “The Freshmen” is a powerful ballad that tells the story of a love triangle gone wrong. You know when a song contains the lyric “guilt-stricken sobbing with my head on the floor,” at the end of every verse that this is a seriously down-on-their-luck storyteller.

Beginners will love singing along to such sad lyrics with the simple chord shapes from the key of C. This song is a fun one to sing loudly, as the cathartic build of the song is therapeutic.

41. Oasis – Wonderwall

Long before the song became the subject of multiple memes, “Wonderwall” was a massive alternative hit for Oasis. Though no one knows what a Wonderwall is, there is no denying the beauty and sadness of the song.

Though “Wonderwall” has some exotic chords, beginners shouldn’t shy away from adding this song to their repertoire. The F#m7, Esus4, and B7sus4 chords can be considered variations of the A, played by pressing down strings on the same fret. With just a little extra patience, learning “Wonderwall” will open up a whole lot more songs to play.

42. Neil Young – Unknown Legend

Though Neil Young is considered an artist from the 60s and 70s, he has continued recording vital work through the century and into the new millennium. His 1992 offering “Unknown Legend” ranks among some of the best songwriting of his career, as Young’s character study of a small-town woman captures a particular middle American sadness.

Beginning guitarists will love playing “Unknown Legend” as the song is a simple back and forth between G and C. Once mastering that progression, more adventurous players can tackle the simple guitar riff that breaks up the song.

43. Jeff Buckley – Hallelujah

Unless you live under a rock, you have heard the sorrowful modern-day hymn, “Hallelujah.” Though written by songwriter Leonard Cohen, the most popular version of the song comes from Jeff Buckley’s interpretation. The vocal performance and sparse arrangement are among the most emotional ever recorded.

There are several different ways to play “Hallelujah,” but at its root, the song is a simple five-chord progression taken at a slow tempo. This song is an excellent choice for guitarists that want to show off their vocal prowess, as it has a lot of room for vocal runs.

44. Big Star – Thirteen

Though Big Star never found success during their career, the enduring beauty of their songs has given their work a new appreciation with each passing generation of music lovers. Their best-known composition, “Thirteen,” is a bittersweet tale of young love with a couple of well-placed minor chords to color the story with light melancholy.

The song might intimidate beginners with its seven different chords, but the reality is that the Em7 and D5 both use a single finger, making them very easy to play. The rest of the song utilizes open chords in the familiar key of C.

45. REM – Everybody Hurts

It does not get any sadder than REM’s “Everybody Hurts.” This song, along with its classic music video, became the ultimate sad song of the 90s. As time has passed, the song has remained a classic of REM’s storied career, likely due to its hopeful take on the experience of sadness.

Since “Everybody Hurts” is in Em, the relative minor of G, most of its chords are open. There are two barre chords during the bridge, F# and Bm, but these are simple to play as they share the same shape, just one string over.

46. The Cranberries – Linger

Despite the guitar effects and string section that bolster the studio version of “Linger,” this Cranberries classic stands up to a performance on solo guitar as its melody and lyrics capture a universal feeling of unrequited love.

Beginners will appreciate the simple chords of “Linger” along with its mellow tempo. The song’s inclusion of an A6 chord may seem difficult at first but is very simple to master with practice.

47. Cat Stevens – The First Cut is the Deepest

Cat Stevens depicts a worse for wear love affair in his song “The First Cut is the Deepest.” The song was popularized for a whole new generation by Sheryl Crow, but it doesn’t get much darker than Stevens, whose original version is less of a ballad and more of a raw admission.

For the love-scorned beginning guitarists out there, “The First Cut is the Deepest” is a great song to play along to. The song is a classic three-chord progression that is easy to pick up and great to play while you cathartically sing your heartache away.

48. Coldplay – Yellow

Coldplay’s “Yellow,” despite its bells and whistles, is an acoustic song at heart. Though the electric guitars and strings embellish the sweeping emotions of the song, you can always hear the acoustic guitar underneath. It is the heart of the “Yellow,” a big one considering the song’s sweeping emotion.

“Yellow” is essentially four open chords in the key of G with a few variations near the end that inexperienced players could skip. Not only is this a great sad song, but considering that Coldplay is one of the most popular bands in the world, it’s sure to impress any audience.

49. Patti Smith – Because the Night

Patti Smith’s “Because the Night” might be an epic song about love, but by writing it in the key of Bm, Smith gives her sweeping proclamations of love a tinge of sadness. The effect makes this a fun yet melancholic song to play.

The chord progression in “Because the Night ” is simple, but some of the transitions come on quickly. These changes don’t take the song beyond the skill of a beginner, though. Instead, they offer an opportunity to practice changing chords. “Because the Night” is a simple, fun song to play for the lovesick.

50. Soul Asylum – Runaway Train

Soul Asylum wrote the ultimate sad song with “Runaway Train.” There isn’t any redemption for the narrator, and there isn’t any uplifting anthemic quality to the music. “Runaway Train” is a song about being on your last leg and having nowhere else to go, and that makes it a cathartic song to play.

Like many simple songs, “Runaway Train” is in the key of C and primarily uses open chords. The tempo is slow, so if a beginner has trouble barring the F chord, the song gives plenty of time to make the transition.

Conclusion

As our list of the top 50 sad guitar songs for beginners illustrates, some of the best songs out there are the most simple. As the influential songwriter Harlan Howard famously claimed, music is “three chords and the truth.” That’s part of the magic of playing an instrument – if you know a few chords, you can work out even the most complex feelings.

Guitar Hero took the whole gaming community by storm when it was first released in 2005. If you are a 90’s kid, you probably spent most of your childhood strumming the guitar-shaped controller with your friends.

Most songs on the Guitar Hero franchise are rock songs range from the classic rock era of the 1960s to those peaking charts in the ’00s.

We have handpicked a list of the songs that made you strum a little harder and headbang more energetically. Here are the ten best guitar hero songs of all time:

Top 10 Best Guitar Hero Songs

Song # 1: Livin’ On A Prayer by Bon Jovi

Livin’ On A Prayer is by far the best song of the entire decade. The song’s popularity can be discerned by the fact that the game’s sales soared when the songs list was released.

This song is the epitome of perfection: it has great lyrics and a beat that will make you strum the guitar while you scream the words out all at once. All in all, it’s something that would make you feel like a rockstar.

Guitar Hero World Tour contains the original studio version of the song, which plays the intro riff in the end once again before fading out for a proper guitar experience.

It took a while, but we’re glad this song made it to the Guitar Hero franchise.

Song # 2: Hotel California by Eagles

Another classic rock song released in the ’70s makes it on the list here. Hotel California is easily considered to be the best song of the generation. It was even voted as having the best guitar solo.

Hotel California is a unique song because its chords repeat after long intervals. It will have you playing the song over and over again just for the sake of it until you have mastered it.

Song # 3: Dead! by My Chemical Romance

Dead! It isn’t even the best song from the album ‘The Black Parade,’ let alone be one of My Chemical Romance’s greatest; but it still makes the list here.

Dead! has one of the most fun and upbeat music that will make you work just that tiny bit of extra to be fun and exciting to play the song.

The thing that made the major difference was the inclusion of the song’s master recording in the game, which lets you experience and rush of playing it live.

Song # 4: One by Metallica

The fact that a whole new game, ‘Guitar Heroes: Metallica,’ was released to celebrate their legendary music is enough to recognize Metallica’s importance in the music culture. Fans were finally able to riff their way through all the metal songs after 20 ol’ years of only listening to their masterpieces.

Before the release of Guitar Hero: Metallica, Metallica debuted in Guitar Hero III with their beautiful track ‘One’.

‘One’ might not be their greatest track on the album, but playing it is much more fun, and you are rewarded with a great sense of accomplishment at finishing it.

Song # 5: Eye of the Tiger by Survivor

What list would ever be complete without including this song in it?

You don’t have to be an eighties kid to know this banger from the ‘Rocky’ series. It made you bob your head along with the beat when you watched the movies. But it also made many bang their heads with the guitar while playing it.

This ’80s rock and roll hit is the most fun track to play on the entire game tracklist. It was the song you’d wish your opponent would play flawlessly so that you could hear the masterpiece without any mistakes in it.

Song # 6: Killer Queen by Queen

Killer Queen is widely recognized as the song that helped set the stage for Guitar Hero.

It has all of the qualities present in a typical Queen song: a funky bit of music and changing vocals that is a majestic experience when played out on the guitar.

Guitar Hero initially launched a song’s cover until Guitar Hero: Smash Hits, when the Killer Queen master track finally became available.

Song # 7: You Got Another Thing Coming by Judas Priest

It is one of the greatest metal songs ever was never in doubt, but You Got Another Thing Coming has also cemented its place as the best videogame song ever.

Admit it, Judas Priest’s classic was what got us all into Guitar Hero. The quirky music paired with the gameplay showed us what this game was capable of.

There are more difficult songs in the game tracklist, but the alternating metal rock music and beats help it make a list easily.

Song # 8: The Beast and the Harlot by Avenged Sevenfold

Avenged Sevenfold has always been a kickin’ band, but they got their well-deserved fame after including The Beast and the Harlot in the Guitar Hero II game tracklist.

The song comes to your mind when you think of the word ‘rock’. It is 4 minutes and 10 seconds of pure (screams) bliss.

The Beast and the Harlot has everything that makes it an excellent Guitar Hero song: an intense guitar solo, a ferocious intro and the occasional key changes.

P.s: You have to know this song inside out to be a worthy master of Guitar Hero.

Song # 9: Walk This Way by Aerosmith ft. Run DMC

You only have to listen to the song’s intro to understand why this song made it to the list. If you’re the ’70s and ’80s kid, you probably remember how this song took the world by storm.

It received extraordinary praise, and MTV had Aerosmith perform it live, with Steven Tyler bursting through a wall to sing the opening lyrics after that guitar intro.

That is pretty much exactly how we all imagined ourselves as we played it on Guitar Hero, with unlaced sneakers and acting as if there isn’t a worry in the world (and trying to enter through a wall, you know we have all tried that).

Special brownie points for anyone who can rap like Run DMC while playing the bass line and just as fast guitar riffs.

Song # 10: Through the Fire and Flames by Dragonforce

How fitting that this is the final song on our list? Last but not the least, the difficulty level of Through the Fire and Flames will have you sweating as if you walked through fire and flames.

Many people rank this at the top of any Guitar Hero songs list. This song will have you listening to it on repeat until you can’t resist playing it, only for you to get through even a quarter of it barely.

The song has some of the coolest beats playing at an insane and inhuman speed that will make you realize how talented metal bands are.

If you can play songs like ‘The Devil Went Down to Georgia’, we respect you all, but if you can get through this song without making a single mistake, we’d suggest you switch professions to become a rockstar. You’re in the same league as Santana now.

Final Thoughts

What did you think of our ‘Best Guitar Hero Songs’ list? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Keep watching this space for more music-related updates, blogs and guides.

Have a Nice Day!

If you really want to experience the simple pleasures of life: you’ve got to have a campfire guitar songs session with your friends!

There is a certain kind of joy that comes with sharing your love for music with others. What better place than a campfire or bonfire party to experience that?

A wise man once said, ‘Holding a guitar instantly makes you ten times more attractive.’ There is no denying that.

If you plan to be the center of attention at the next campfire with your friends or family, we are here to help you, and we promise not to judge. (*wink*)

So, without further ado. Let’s recap and look at some easy campfire guitar songs you can muse to.

campfire guitar songs

Easy Campfire Guitar Songs to Try

Song # 1: ‘Hallelujah’ by Leonard Cohen 

This song is an evergreen classic, and any bonfire night is incomplete without it.

Hallelujah’ has a soulful melody and soothing tune that goes straight to your heart. Coupled with beautiful lyrics, this classic ballad is perfect for singing as well as playing on guitar.

The good news? The song has easy-to-play chords most beginner guitar players can learn with practice.

You need to learn four fundamental chords and a few advanced ones to master this masterpiece. 

Click here for a comprehensive guitar chords tutorial of ‘Hallelujah.’

Song # 2: ‘Hotel California’ by The Eagles

When we talk about easy campfire guitar songs, this song has to be a part of the list.

Whether you’re a true rock fan or simply like the classics, you ought to know this song by heart.

Released in the late 70s, ‘Hotel California’ has remained an all-time-favorite turn throughout these decades.

This song is among the first few songs that all-new guitar players love to practice.

Another great thing about learning the chords to ‘Hotel California’ is that it can help polish both; your picking and strumming skills.

P.s: It is the perfect song to score some brownie points from your crush. 

Song # 3: ‘Fast Car’ by Tracy Chapman

Fast Car’ by Tracy Chapman is another example of a campfire song you can never get enough of. 

The tune is perfect for a ukulele or acoustic guitar, and any beginner guitar player can learn it with a few practices.

Fast Car’ offers a unique combination of picking and strumming for guitar players that may take them back to nostalgic times. 

Don’t forget to sing your heart out to the chorus part for that extra dose of serotonin.  

Song # 4: ‘Wonderwall’ by The Oasis

This is unquestionably Oasis’s most hit song.

Noel Gallagher, the band’s lead guitarist and primary songwriter wrote this piece ‘Wonderwall’ in 1995, and it has been a campfire-favorite ever since. It’s also often the first song most beginner guitar players learn.

If you are catching up with your friends on campfire night, make sure that you sing the chorus part ‘And after all, you’re my Wonderwall’ together to create wholesome memories.

For beginner guitar players, ‘Wonderwall‘ is in the code of F#m, for which you will have to ensure that you have the guitar clamp with you to record this song.

Song # 5: ‘I’m Yours by Jason Mraz

Ever since Jason Mraz, the American pop singer, released his single ‘I’m Yours’ just before the initiation of American Idol Season 7, it has been a hit.

It is among the most popular tracks sung at parties, especially campfire nights at the beach.

It is in the code of B and requires a guitar clamp on the fourth fret. It features one of the most frequently used chord changes in popular music (I-V-vi-IV) and some additional chords to jazz it up.

Sing it to your crush, and you never know; they might ‘become yours’ (no pun intended).

Song # 6: ‘Chasing Cars’ by Snow Patrol

This is that one song you will see everywhere. Every TV show and has been quite popular amongst the Millenials. It was released in the initial years of the 2000s, and it continues to rule the music charts even in 2021.

Gary Lightbody, the band’s frontman, explained in an interview that this song is about the most innocent form of love. 

If you wish to learn the guitar chords to ‘Chasing Cars’ for your next camping trip, know that it is in A’s code and will require a capo on the second fret.

Song # 7: ‘Skinny Love’ by Bon Iver

Bon Iver is an American indie-folk band defined by their signature style of raspy vocals alongside their beautiful acoustic guitar tuning.

Skinny Love has been one of the most widely known songs of theirs and the easiest to learn. It was the lead single from Bon Iver’s self-titled latest album For Emma, Forever Ago, released in 2007.

The song is in the code of Am and features some interesting open chords. Most guitar players describe the song as a smooth yet complex melody.

‘Skinny Love’ is the perfect bittersweet love song that can set the mood right for a chilly campfire night.

Song # 8: ‘I Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing’ by Aerosmith

If you ask someone that one song they must have heard by Aerosmith, they’ll end up singing along those nostalgic lines of ‘I don’t wanna miss a thing’ without any doubts.

The song lyrics writer of this power-ballad is Daine Warren, along with her companions; Toni Braxton, Mary J. Blige, and Whitney Houston (another legendary singer).

This song is one of the best songs one can play around a campfire with your friends and loved ones around you. It’s like a warm hug on a winter night!

The code of this song falls within both the D and Bb chords. You can learn more about the guitar chords by watching this tutorial.

Song # 9: ‘Iris’ by Goo Goo Dolls

And I’d give up forever to…..

Play and sing along to this timeless piece on a campfire night.

Iris’ by Goo Goo Dolls is the ultimate feel-good ballad that can help calm your senses.

One cannot call themselves a guitar player if one does not know how to play this eternal tune.

The song mostly requires open chords that are easy to learn and easier to love. That’s how beautiful it is!

P.s: It might make you miss your ex. So, keep those tissues handy on you!

Song # 10: ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley

If there is a long song that can make you feel like you’re floating in the air, both physically and mentally, this has to be it.

Can’t Help Falling in Love is one of the most wonderful masterpieces that the ‘King of Rock and Roll,’ Mr. Presley, created in his lifetime. It is a song that will continue his music legacy forever.

It would be a mere sin not to mention it in our list of best easy guitar songs.

This song definitely tops everything, and you simply cannot sing-along or strum-along to it under the stars. It will be a lifelong memory.

Let’s Wrap Up the Night!

We hope you enjoyed reading our list of the best ten easy campfire guitar songs.

Whether you are behind the guitar or jealous of the one who actually is, this easy campfire guitar songs list will still make your night.

And hey, don’t forget. Even if you don’t know how to play the guitar, you can always sing along with your loved one and call it a night. Sounds like the perfect plan to us.

While you are at it, check out this ultimate list of 25 Easy Guitar Songs for Beginners.

Good Luck!

Nothing beats the warm resonating sound of an acoustic guitar. As a beginner guitar player, you probably can’t wait to pick up your instrument and begin playing some of your favorite easy guitar songs.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the best easy acoustic guitar songs so you can begin playing with confidence. We’ve picked songs that don’t require a lot of fancy picking, tricky chord progressions, or difficult rhythms.

If you’re ready, let’s get to it with this diverse collection of easy acoustic guitar songs you can start playing today.

My Picks of Easy Acoustic Guitar Songs

1. Riptide by Vance Joy

“Riptide” by Vance Joy was a popular single in 2013, and is still fairly well-known today. It’s a catchy tune that features the guitar and vocals. It’s been covered by many guitar teachers, and it’s pretty fun and easy to play.
This song can be played with a capo on the first fret using the chords Am, G, C, and F. The F chord is usually the hardest of the four to master, but this chord only shows up in the bridge so you’ll play it the least in the song. You can play “Riptide” open (without a capo) using the same chords.

Chords: Am, G, C, F

2. The Joker by Steve Miller Band

Steve Miller Band formed in the late 1960s in San Francisco. The band was originated by Steve Miller, and though he had found some success in earlier albums and songs, “The Joker” was and remains one of the band’s most famous songs.

This song is made up of only three chords, G, C, and D, making it a good choice for beginner guitar players. As with many songs on the guitar, there are more complicated versions of how to play, but a beginner can play a simple version of this song and it will sound close enough to the original that people can sing along.

Chords: G, C, D

3. The River by Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen a rock performer of the 1970s and 80s and beyond, is known as both a solo artist and as part of E Street Band. “The River” was a song he wrote as a tribute to his sister and brother-in-law. It was recorded in the 1970s, and the style of the song was inspired by country music star Hank Williams.

The song was originally recorded on a 12-string guitar, but it can be performed on a 6-string guitar with no issues. The chords are the same, it just has a slightly different sound without the six extra strings.

Although this song has five chords, all of them are easy beginner chords that are not difficult to transition through.

Chords: Em, G, D, C, Am

4. I Walk the Line by Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash, the iconic country music singer, is known for a number of hits. One of his most famous songs is “I Walk the Line”, the title of which inspired the 2005 movie about his life. Johnny Cash’s music is widely known and though he’s a country music star, he was also influenced by gospel, rock ‘n roll, and folk music.

“I Walk the Line” supposedly took Johnny Cash 20 minutes to write, and was released in 1956.

The song is played with only three easy chords, A, D, and E, but the introduction and strumming pattern will take some time to learn for a beginner guitar player.

Chords: A, D, E

5. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd

“Sweet Home Alabama” has a guitar intro that is instantly recognizable. This song was released in 1974, but is still commonly heard on the radio and was featured in a number of movies including of course Sweet Home Alabama, as well as Forrest Gump, Joe Dirt, and Despicable Me.

This song uses chords G, D, C and it’s a good choice for early picking practice as there are many picking parts in this song. “Sweet Home Alabama” wouldn’t be the first song to learn to play on the guitar, but it’s a good choice for a developing beginner guitar player.

Chords: G, D, C

6. Eleanor Rigby by the Beatles

The Beatles are one of the most famous bands of all time. Hitting the scene in the 1960s, this band is responsible for a high number of hit songs. “Eleanor Rigby” is one of those hit songs released on their 1966 album Revolver.

The song was an ode to lonely people, primarily those who are elderly. The theme of the song is dismal, but the sound is catchy and experimental. “Eleanor Rigby” only uses two chords, and the strumming pattern is easy to pick up as well.

Chords: C, Em

7. Love Me Do by the Beatles

Looking for another Beatles classic to add to your repertoire? Why not try this easy acoustic guitar song “Love Me Do?” It’s another good beginner guitar song that’s fun to listen to and play.

This song has three chords that can be played with or without a capo. The original version is played with a capo, but the capo is placed in the 10th fret which can be a difficult play for beginners. Strumming for this song is simple and the pattern repeats throughout the song.

Chords: A, D, G

8. Bad Moon Rising by Creedence Clearwater Revival

Creedence Clearwater Revival is a rock band that hit its height of popularity in the 1960s and 70s. They’re best known for their hit songs “Down on the Corner,” “Fortunate Son,” “Up Around the Bend” and of course “Bad Moon Rising.”

“Bad Moon Rising” released in 1969, is an enjoyable song that will surely raise the mood when you start strumming your guitar. This song is really easy to play with simple strumming and three common chords that keep repeating.

Chords: D, A, G

9. Cigarette Daydreams by Cage the Elephant

Cage the Elephant, a band formed in Kentucky, began their rise to fame in the 2010s with songs like “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” and “Shake me Down.”

Another popular song “Cigarette Daydreams” is an easy guitar song you can master with a little practice. It does feature a few bar chords which are harder to pick up as a brand new guitar player, but you will repeat many of the same guitar chords which make it easier to learn. The strumming pattern is also attainable for the new guitar player.

This song may take a bit more practice than the three chord ones, but it’s still a good option for the new guitar player wanting to branch out and try something a little different.

Chords: D, Dmaj7, Em, G, A, Bm, F#m

10. Live and Die by the Avett Brothers

Avett Brothers are a folk band formed by…well two brothers. Though they had aspirations for being rock ‘n roll superstars, they found their home in folk and bluegrass performances with hints of rock ‘n roll mixed in. They’ve been releasing albums since the early 2000s, and continue to have a faithful following today.

“Live and Die,” a song off their 2012 album, Carpenter is a fairly easy song for beginner guitar players and is a good one to have under your belt if you enjoy modern folk songs.

If you want a tutorial from the artist themselves, here’s a video of Seth Avett teaching you how to play the song.

Chords: G, Bm, C, Em, D, Am, D7

11. Zombie by the Cranberries

Want an acoustic song with a completely different feel? Why not try out “Zombie” by the Cranberries. “Zombie” is an Irish protest song in response to the 1993 Warrington bombings.

This song repeats the same four chords, but creates a distinct mood and is enjoyable to learn how to play.

Chords: Em, Cmaj7, G, D

12. A Horse With No Name by America

America is a rock band formed in the 1970s known for their vocal harmonies and acoustic guitars. If you’re looking for an extremely easy beginner song, try “A Horse With No Name” by this band. It features a simple strumming pattern and only two simple chords.

Before you get too blown away by the D6/9/F# chord, don’t worry, it’s only two strings. The chord name might throw you for a loop, but it’s very very easy to play.

Chords: Em, D6/9/F#

13. La Bamba by Ritchie Valens

Once you start playing “La Bamba” by Ritchie Valens, you may not be able to get it out of your head, but this classic is easy to play and easily recognized by most adults.

You can play this song by simply strumming the chords, or you can pick out individual strings for a more stylized sound.

Chords: C, F, G

14. Wildest Dreams by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s fame is undeniable, and her songs are catchy and fun to sing and play. “Wildest Dreams” from the album 1989 is a song about an ideal man but a relationship that is destined to eventually fail.

This song is played with a capo on the first fret, and five easy beginner chords. The strumming pattern is pretty straightforward as well.

Chords: C, Em, D, Am, G

Can I Really Learn These Songs as a Beginner?

One thing to understand about learning the guitar is that you can play along with some of the more difficult guitar songs without playing every trick or twang that you hear. In other words, there are easier versions to some of your favorite songs.
Another thing to know is that you might find different chord combinations depending on the website or YouTube video that you use. One reason for that is that you can play guitar songs in different keys. Or, you may choose to play with a capo or without one.

Some guitarists will show you how to play the song in the same key as the original artists, while others will show you easier versions played in a different key. This is often to accommodate beginners and allow them to play along with songs that are more complicated or that have harder to learn chords.

Keys can also be changed in order to make it easier to sing along with. Some singers have very high or very low voices which are nearly impossible to match for the average singer. When this happens it’s pretty common to change the key of the song.

So as you’re learning to play these songs you may be thinking, hey that doesn’t sound exactly like the original song. That’s OK. That’s part of the learning process of playing the guitar, and as your skills become more developed you can start adding in some of those harder techniques you’re hearing in your most beloved songs.

Most of all, as you pick up your guitar, find songs that you enjoy learning to play. The more you want to play them, the more you’ll be willing to put in the time and effort to learn them. Even if a song seems a bit out of your reach, if you’re really inspired to learn it, chances are you’ll be able to pick it up much faster than dredging through a tune you don’t care about.

Other Easy Guitar Posts:
Easy Country Songs on Guitar
Easy Pop Songs on Guitar
Easy Christmas Songs on Guitar

One of the greatest joys of learning to play guitar is being able to share music with loved ones. There is no better time to share music with family and friends than during the holidays.

There are opportunities at holiday parties, family gathers, and even on a caroling expedition to spread joy with holidays songs on guitar.

You don’t have to be a master of guitar to play a long list of Christmas songs. To prove that to you, compiled here is a list of 30 easy Christmas songs to learn on guitar for beginners. We have a general list of easy guitar songs as well.

Even if you are a seasoned guitar player, there is still loads of fun to be had by learning this easy Christmas songs. You can have them in your back pocket to quickly pull out when the mood is right.

For both newbies and professionals alike, this list provides a great mix of simple strumming songs, fingerpicking tunes, and melodic riffs to capture and hold your attention.

30 Easy Christmas Songs on Guitar

1. Jingle Bells

At the top of most people’s favorite Christmas song list would be Jingle Bells. It’s upbeat and a great singalong. With a fairly simple rhythm and only a few chords, you will be strumming this song in no time. Check out this video tutorial to learn how.

2. Santa Claus is Coming to Town

Another bop, Santa Claus is Coming to Town is a huge holiday crowd pleaser. This video tutorial will show you how with just 5 simple chords you could be playing this song.

3. Silent Night

This slow jam is an iconic and emotional Christmas tune to learn on guitar. It’s also so much fun to sing, if that appeals to you. Learn how to play with this video.

4. Blue Christmas

Channel your inner Elvis and learn to play Blue Christmas on guitar. This smooth, crooner tune is great for your personal catalog. Watch this video lesson to learn the basics.

5. Winter Wonderland

This magical song is perfect for those snowy winter days inside. Cuddle up and watch this video tutorial to get started playing Winter Wonderland.

6. Last Christmas

This modern classic from Wham! is absolutely the most fun song to play! Great for players who enjoy a pop twist at the holidays. This video lesson will have you playing in no time.

7. Frosty the Snowman

No Christmas song list would be complete without this children’s classic. There are just three basic sections to learn and then you’ll be telling this magical story. Here is a video tutorial to get you started.

8. All I Want for Christmas (is You)

Mariah Carey has had an exceptional career, but no tune is more recognizable from this singer than the iconic All I Want for Christmas (is You). When you hear this playing in stores, you know the holiday season is here. Learn to play this tune and spread cheer with this video.

9. We Wish You a Merry Christmas

We Wish You a Merry Christmas is the seminal Christmas caroling song. Where or not you take this tune door-to-door, it is a great one to have in your catalog for holiday gatherings. Learn how to play with this easy guitar tutorial.

10. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer

The classic tale about the world’s cherry-nosed hero is a great tune for beginners to learn on guitar. This video tutorial is great and adorable.

11. Let It Snow

As long as your inside, warm, and have your guitar — let it snow! The catchy rhythm is simple and breeze to learn quickly. Learn more with this video tutorial.

12. Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree

It is hard to pick the most fun holiday song to play, but this rockin’ tune would be at the top of most lists. It has two main section and is full of common chords, making it totally approachable for beginners. Learn how to get rockin’ with this video lesson.

13. 12 Days of Christmas

This Christmas favorite repeats the same section throughout which makes it quick to learn for beginner guitar players. Learning all the words might take you more time. This video tutorial will walk you through it.

14. Away in a Manager

If you enjoy the more religious songs of the season, Away in a Manager is a lovely beginner tune to learn. It has such a beautiful melody and could be great to play at holiday services. Watch this video to get started.

15. White Christmas

This song is a dream to learn for beginners. Pun intended. It really is a newbie guitar player’s and crooner’s dream. This video tutorial will help you get there.

16. Felize Navidad

This Spanish language holiday tune helps round out the list. It is so much fun to sing and learn! This video tutorial will show you how to get started with just three basic chords and a simple strumming pattern.

17. Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer

This darkly humorous tune is a crowd pleasure. With just four basic chords and this video lesson, you will be playing this song in no time.

18. Up on the Housetop

This bouncy song is sure to be a hit with the young and old alike. There are just four chords in the whole song. Watch a video tutorial to learn the basics.

19. Silver Bells

This classic winter song is smooth, short, and sweet. A great combination for beginner guitar players. Here is a video on how to learn the tune.

20. Baby It’s Cold Outside

This cheeky tune is great for beginner guitar players that are looking for a duet. It’s a classic for any holiday sing-a-long party. Watch this tutorial for a beginner-friendly versions of the song.

21. Joy to the World

Bring holiday joy into your heart with this easy-to-learn song. It has just three simple chords, but doesn’t skimp on drama. This video lesson will teach you the basics.

22. O Come All Ye Faithful

The olde English lyrics of this holiday classic bring such a timeless quality to the song. For a broken down version that’s great for beginners, this video tutorial is fantastic.

23. Christmas Don’t Be Late

If the Chipmunks could do it, so can you! This tune is a good one to challenge yourself a bit if you’re a beginner. It’s in 6/8 time, which may be new to you, but it’s still approachable to new players. Follow along with this video tutorial for an easier start.

24. I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas

Hippos may be complex creatures, but this song is totally easy. There’s only four chords and so much fun. This video lays it out quite well for beginners.

25. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

This is such a sweet and gentle tune to learn for beginner guitar players looking to dabble with fingerpicking styles. This great video tutorial will get you started.

26. Carol of the Bells

What is cool about this classic Christmas tune is that it works well as a solely instrumental. With this video tutorial you can learn the main riff of the tune, which is great for beginner guitar players looking to learn how to play lead.

27. We Three Kings

A repeating melody makes this a quick and easy Christmas tune to learn for beginners. It’s also another great tune to practice fingerpicking styles. Watch this video lesson to learn how.

28. What Child is This/Greensleeves

Perhaps one of the most beautiful songs ever written, What Child is This can bring chills to you and your audience. It is also one of those tunes that is popular around Christmas time, but transcends the holidays. This video tutorial will guide you to mastering the fingerpicking melody to this tune.

29. Mistletoe

Perhaps this Justin Bieber tune hasn’t elevated to Christmas classic yet, but it’s a catchy modern tune. With only four chords and a simple pop rhythm, it would be shame not to learn it. This guitar tutorial breaks it down for you easily.

30. Little Saint Nick

The Beach Boys help round out this list with some tropical holiday cheer. A solid rock tune with just four chords makes this an easy song for beginners. If you can scrounge up some background vocals, it’s sure to be a hit at any holiday party. Learn the tune with this video lesson.

Conclusion

No matter which tune you decided to tackle on this list, you are certain to have some fun trying. The great thing about Christmas tunes it that once you learn them, you can enjoy them every year indefinitely. Have fun learning!

Other Related Posts:
11 Easy Country Songs on Guitar
30 Easy Pop Songs on Guitar

Country music has a rich history and a deep fan base, and it’s a great place to start for beginner guitar players. Many country songs are popular, catchy, and captivating while also being easy to play on the guitar.

Storytelling and vocal harmonies are a signature part of country music, but the underlying chord structure is often simple, making it easier on newbie guitar players.

Here you’ll learn a little history on the development of country music and some of the BEST easy country songs that you can learn on the guitar.

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One of the best ways to maintain interest and excitement in the beginning stages of learning guitar is to focus on learning fun easy guitar songs. The fantastic thing about pop songs is that they are often easy to learn and they are so much fun to play!

Pop songs also have the added value of being easily recognizable to others. If a singalong session is in your dreams of guitar playing, pop songs are a great way to get there!

Plus, there is a huge chance you have heard each of these songs on the radio. Familiarity with a tune can help you learn it faster and it is so much more exciting than practicing scales!

Ready to dive right in? Here are 30 easy pop songs on guitar that are ideal for beginner players.

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