Easiest Songs to Learn on Guitar: Your Fast Track to Playing Music

Starting your guitar journey can be incredibly exciting, and one of the best ways to stay motivated is to quickly learn to play songs you love. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of strumming along to a familiar tune, whether you’re jamming with friends or just relaxing at home. While becoming a guitar virtuoso takes time and practice, you can experience the joy of playing music much sooner than you think by focusing on easy songs to learn on guitar.

Forget about complex solos and intricate riffs for now. This list of 40 simple songs is perfect for beginners and will help you master basic chords and strumming patterns. Whether you pick up an acoustic guitar or electric guitar, these tunes, with the guidance of resources like Fender Play, will have you playing recognizable songs in no time. And the best part? You’ll be building a solid foundation of skills that will set you up for long-term guitar playing success.

Top Easy Songs for Beginner Guitarists

1. Feel The Pain – J Mascis

J Mascis, drawing inspiration from rock legends like Black Sabbath, crafted a unique sound that blends punk, rock, and alternative. “Feel The Pain” is a great example of his style and a surprisingly accessible song for beginners to learn on guitar. Its straightforward structure makes it ideal for practicing power chords and basic rock rhythms.

Learn how to play “Feel The Pain” here.

2. Wonderwall – Oasis

“Wonderwall,” from Oasis’s iconic album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, became a global anthem and defined a generation of British rock. This song is a fantastic choice for beginner guitarists because of its simple chord progression and recognizable melody. Learning “Wonderwall” is a rite of passage for anyone starting out on acoustic guitar.

Learn how to play “Wonderwall” here.

3. I Fought the Law – The Bobby Fuller Four

“I Fought the Law,” penned by Sonny Curtis of the Crickets, is a timeless rebel anthem, famously covered by The Clash. The Bobby Fuller Four’s version, a classic rendition, is perfect for beginners wanting to learn easy strumming patterns. Matt Lake’s simplified campfire strumming arrangement makes this song even more accessible for new guitar players.

Learn how to play “I Fought the Law” here.

4. Blown Away – Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood, often hailed as the modern “Queen of Country,” has a knack for crafting country hits. “Blown Away,” a chart-topping single, is remarkably easy to learn on guitar, featuring just one chord progression throughout the entire song. This Grammy-winning track is a satisfying early win for any beginner guitarist interested in country music.

Learn how to play “Blown Away” here.

5. 7 Years – Lukas Graham

Danish pop band Lukas Graham achieved international fame with “7 Years,” a global hit from 2015. This song’s popularity stems partly from its relatable lyrics and catchy melody, but also from its simple chord structure, making it a great choice for beginner guitarists looking to learn a contemporary pop song.

Learn how to play “7 Years” here.

6. He Didn’t Have to Be – Brad Paisley

Brad Paisley, a Telecaster master, is a leading figure in modern country music. “He Didn’t Have to Be,” his first No. 1 hit, is an easy-to-learn country song that will help beginners refine their strumming technique. Its gentle tempo and clear chord changes make it ideal for practicing smooth transitions.

Learn how to play “He Didn’t Have to Be” here.

7. Honky Tonk Women – The Rolling Stones

“Honky Tonk Women” by The Rolling Stones is a classic that blends hard rock energy with a country twang. This chart-topping hit, written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, is based heavily on the G chord, making it surprisingly simple to learn the intro riff, verse, and chorus. It’s a fun, recognizable song that beginner guitarists will enjoy playing.

Learn how to play “Honky Tonk Women” here.

8. Purple Haze – Jimi Hendrix

“Purple Haze,” a signature song by Jimi Hendrix, introduced many to his revolutionary psychedelic rock sound. While Hendrix is known for his virtuosity, the basic structure of “Purple Haze” is accessible to beginners. Learning this song provides an entry point into classic rock and iconic guitar riffs, albeit in a simplified form for new players.

Learn how to play “Purple Haze” here.

9. Big Yellow Taxi – Joni Mitchell

Joni Mitchell’s “Big Yellow Taxi,” from her acclaimed album Ladies of the Canyon, is a folk-pop classic with an important environmental message. Written after a trip to Hawaii, this song is easy to learn on guitar and features a simple, repetitive chord progression that’s perfect for practicing strumming and chord changes.

Learn how to play “Big Yellow Taxi” here.

10. Not Fade Away – Buddy Holly

Buddy Holly’s “Not Fade Away,” originally recorded with The Crickets, is a rock and roll classic inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Fender Play instructor Nikki Stevens’ tutorial breaks down this song using just three chords (E, A, and D major). Beginners can start with simple down strums and gradually progress to a more percussive alternate strumming pattern.

Learn how to play “Not Fade Away.”

11. I Need My Girl – The National

The National’s “I Need My Girl” offers a more modern indie rock option for beginner guitarists. Jen Trani’s simplified version uses just four chords (A minor, C, F, and G) and a capo, making it even easier to play. This song is excellent for practicing chord transitions and learning to use a capo effectively.

Learn how to play “I Need My Girl” here.

12. Hallelujah – Leonard Cohen

Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” is a profoundly moving song, famously covered by Jeff Buckley. Despite its emotional depth, the basic chord structure of “Hallelujah” is relatively simple, making it learnable for beginner guitarists. This song is a beautiful choice for practicing fingerpicking or gentle strumming.

Learn how to play “Hallelujah” here.

13. It’s My Life – The Animals

“It’s My Life” by The Animals is a classic rock anthem with a message of individuality. This song, written by Brill Building songwriters Roger Atkins and Carl D’Errico, is driven by a memorable organ riff, but translates well to guitar. Its straightforward chord progression and strong rhythm make it a fun and easy song for beginners to learn.

Learn how to play “It’s My Life” here.

14. Clay – Grace VanderWaal

Grace VanderWaal, a ukulele prodigy, also writes heartfelt songs like “Clay,” featured on her debut album Perfectly Imperfect. This metaphorical song about bullying is built around four easy open position chords: G, E minor, D, and C. “Clay” is a gentle and meaningful song that’s easy for beginners to play and sing along to.

Learn how to play “Clay” here.

15. California – Delta Spirit

“California” was Delta Spirit’s breakout single, gaining the indie rock band wider recognition. This catchy track, with hints of roots-rock, is propelled by an engaging alternate strumming pattern. Using just four chords (A minor, C, G, and D), as taught by Fender Play instructor Jen Trani, beginners can quickly learn and enjoy playing this upbeat song.

Learn how to play “California” here.

16. Shout – The Isley Brothers

“Shout” by The Isley Brothers is an iconic song known for its energetic call-and-response style. While it didn’t initially top the charts, “Shout” became a gold record due to its enduring popularity at events and parties. Its simple structure and repetitive nature make it surprisingly easy to play a basic guitar accompaniment, perfect for practicing rhythm and dynamics.

Learn how to play “Shout” here.

17. Bad Moon Rising – Creedence Clearwater Revival

Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Bad Moon Rising” is a timeless rock classic with a deceptively upbeat sound despite its ominous lyrics. This song is excellent for beginners learning basic chords (D, A, and G) and practicing chord switching. Its steady tempo and clear chord changes make it a foundational song for any aspiring guitarist.

Learn how to play “Bad Moon Rising” here.

18. Ocean Eyes – Billie Eilish

“Ocean Eyes,” Billie Eilish’s debut song released on Soundcloud, marked the beginning of her meteoric rise to fame. Written by her brother Finneas O’Connell, this hit song is characterized by its haunting melody and relatively simple chord progression, making it an appealing and achievable song for beginner guitarists to learn.

Learn how to play “Ocean Eyes” here.

19. Rise Up – Andra Day

Andra Day’s “Rise Up” is a powerful and uplifting platinum-selling single from her debut album Cheers to the Fall. This song’s message of resilience and hope is matched by its accessible chord structure on guitar, making it a rewarding song for beginners to learn and play.

Learn how to play “Rise Up” here.

20. I Can’t Quit You Baby – Willie Dixon

Willie Dixon’s blues classic “I Can’t Quit You Baby” was first recorded by Otis Rush and later famously covered by Led Zeppelin. This blues standard is built on a foundation of three basic chords (G, C, and D), making it an excellent entry point into blues guitar for beginners. Learning this song introduces essential blues chord progressions and rhythms.

Learn how to play “I Can’t Quit You Baby” here.

21. Chrissie Hynde – Butch Walker

Butch Walker’s “Chrissie Hynde” is a folk-pop ballad from his album Afraid of Ghosts. This country-tinged song expresses a desire for escape and introspection through music. Its gentle melody and simple chord progression make it a good choice for beginner guitarists looking for a quieter, more reflective song to learn.

Learn how to play “Chrissie Hynde here.

22. Helluva Life – Frankie Ballard

Frankie Ballard’s country song “Helluva Life” is an upbeat anthem about gratitude and appreciating life’s simple pleasures. This popular and certified Gold track features a straightforward chord structure that’s easy for beginners to grasp, making it a fun and positive song to learn early on.

Learn how to play “Helluva Life” here.

23. Matchbox – Carl Perkins

Carl Perkins’ rockabilly tune “Matchbox” is a classic that only requires three chords (A, D, and E). This song is perfect for practicing alternate strumming and solidifying your rhythm guitar skills. Its historical significance, including a cover by The Beatles, adds to its appeal for beginner guitarists.

Learn how to play “Matchbox”.

24. It Hurts Me Too – Elmore James

“It Hurts Me Too” is a blues standard, popularized by Elmore James, though originally recorded by Tampa Red. Elmore James’ version, with its iconic slide guitar sound (simplified for beginners in lessons), uses only three chords with variations (A5, A6, D5, D6, E5, and E6). This song is a fantastic introduction to blues guitar and basic blues chord variations.

Learn how to play “It Hurts Me Too” here.

25. Something to Talk About – Bonnie Raitt

Bonnie Raitt, known for her bluesy slide guitar and soulful vocals, is a Fender signature artist. “Something to Talk About,” a hit single from her Grammy-winning albums, remains a popular choice for guitarists of all levels. Its approachable chord progression and moderate tempo make it a great song for beginners to learn and enjoy.

Learn how to play “Something to Talk About” here.

26. Mannish Boy – Muddy Waters

Muddy Waters’ “Mannish Boy” is a defining blues track with a classic blues riff that permeates the entire song. Reaching No. 5 on the Billboard R&B chart, this song is built around a repetitive and relatively simple structure, making it an excellent song for beginners to learn basic blues riffs and rhythms.

Learn how to play “Mannish Boy” here.

27. Things That I Used to Do – Guitar Slim

Guitar Slim’s “Things That I Used to Do” is a New Orleans blues classic with a single chord progression that utilizes just three chords (E, A, and B7). This chart-topping R&B hit is a great song for beginners to master a fundamental chord progression and practice their timing and rhythm within a blues context.

Learn how to play “Things That I Used to Do” here.

28. Blood & Roses – The Smithereens

The Smithereens’ “Blood & Roses,” the debut single from Especially For You, is a power-pop gem. Fender Play instructor Barrett Wilson guides beginners through this song, which uses five chords (E minor, G, C, D, and A minor). This lesson focuses on pivot fingers and 8th note alternate strumming, introducing slightly more advanced techniques in an accessible way.

Learn how to play “Blood & Roses” here.

29. Low – Cracker

Cracker’s hit song “Low” from 1993 is surprisingly simple to play, requiring only four chords (D, C, E, and G). Reaching No. 3 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart, “Low” is a popular and recognizable song that’s perfect for beginner guitarists to practice basic chord switching and consistent strumming patterns.

Learn how to play “Low” here.

30. Tush – ZZ Top

ZZ Top’s “Tush,” named one of VH1’s best hard rock songs, is a blues-rock classic. Fender Play instructor Scott Goldbaum’s campfire version simplifies this 12-bar blues rocker to a three-chord (D, G, C) rhythm progression. Learning “Tush” gives beginners a taste of classic rock and blues rhythms in an easy-to-play format.

Learn how to play “Tush” here.

31. Jambalaya (On the Bayou) – Hank Williams

Hank Williams, a defining figure in country guitar, showcased his songcraft in “Jambalaya (On the Bayou).” This No. 1 Billboard Hot Country single features a simple chord progression with just two chords, making it incredibly easy for beginners. Its catchy melody and simple structure make it a quintessential country song to learn.

Learn how to play “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)” here.

32. Here Comes the Sun – The Beatles

“Here Comes the Sun,” written by George Harrison for The Beatles’ Abbey Road album, is a universally loved and uplifting song. While the original includes more complex parts, simplified guitar arrangements focus on the core chord progression, making it achievable for beginner guitarists to learn this iconic song.

Learn how to play “Here Comes The Sun” here.

33. Stoplight Kisses – The Cactus Blossoms

The Cactus Blossoms, a modern band with a retro rockabilly sound, offer “Stoplight Kisses.” This upbeat and jangly song, perfect for parties, can be played with just four chords (E, A, B7, and E7). Its cheerful vibe and simple structure make it a fun and easy song for beginners to add to their repertoire.

Learn how to play “Stoplight Kisses” here.

34. I Shall Not Be Moved – Traditional

“I Shall Not Be Moved,” in the version popularized by bluesman Mississippi John Hurt, is a folk and blues classic. Covered by artists like Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley, this song features three basic chords and syncopated rhythms. Learning “I Shall Not Be Moved” introduces beginners to fingerpicking and more rhythmic guitar styles within a traditional song format.

Learn how to play “I Shall Not Be Moved” here.

35. Candy – Paolo Nutini

Paolo Nutini’s “Candy,” a worldwide hit from 2009, blends neo-soul with a catchy pop sensibility. Fender Play instructor Scott Goldbaum’s folky arrangement of this Sunny Side Up single simplifies it for guitar, using alternate and syncopated strumming patterns. This song offers beginners a chance to learn a contemporary hit with accessible guitar parts.

Learn how to play “Candy” here.

36. (Don’t Fear) The Reaper – Blue Öyster Cult

Blue Öyster Cult’s “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” is a classic rock song with a haunting melody and iconic status. Despite its eerie themes, the underlying chord progression is relatively simple and repetitive, making it learnable for beginner guitarists who want to explore classic rock anthems.

Learn how to play “Don’t Fear the Reaper” here.

37. Amazing Grace – Traditional

“Amazing Grace,” a hymn over 200 years old, remains deeply moving and universally recognized. Simplified guitar arrangements, like the one on Fender Play, focus on fingerpicking in 3/4 time using chords A, A7, D, and E7. Learning “Amazing Grace” provides beginners with an opportunity to practice fingerstyle guitar and play a timeless melody.

Learn how to play “Amazing Grace” here.

38. Oye Como Va – Santana

“Oye Como Va,” written by Tito Puente and popularized by Santana, is a Latin rock classic. Santana’s rendition brought this song to a wider audience with its infectious rhythm and groove. While the full arrangement is complex, beginner guitarists can learn simplified versions focusing on basic chords and rhythms to get a feel for Latin-infused guitar playing.

Learn how to play “Oye Como Va” here.

39. All of Me – John Legend

John Legend’s piano ballad “All of Me” translates beautifully to guitar. The intro and verse sections use beautiful open chords: E minor, C, G, and D, with A minor added in the pre-chorus and chorus. This song is a modern pop hit that’s surprisingly easy to play on guitar and allows beginners to practice gentle strumming and chord changes in a contemporary context.

Learn how to play “All of Me” here.

40. Me and Bobby McGee – Kris Kristofferson

“Me and Bobby McGee,” written by Kris Kristofferson and made famous by Janis Joplin, is a country-folk classic. Joplin’s iconic version topped the charts after her passing, solidifying its place in music history. The song’s simple chord structure and singalong melody make it a rewarding and relatively easy song for beginner guitarists to learn.

Learn how to play “Me and Bobby McGee” here.

Ready to unlock even more songs and guitar skills? Fender Play offers a vast library of songs and lessons to guide you on your musical journey. Click here for a free trial and start playing your favorite songs today!