Led Zeppelin, a titan of rock music, might seem daunting for beginner guitar players. However, beneath the complex arrangements and virtuoso performances lies a collection of songs surprisingly accessible to those just starting their guitar journey. This guide will spotlight some easy Led Zeppelin guitar songs, perfect for beginners eager to dive into the world of “Led Zep Guitar” and iconic riffs. You might be surprised at how quickly you can start playing songs from your favorite band.
Beginner-Friendly Led Zeppelin Songs to Learn on Guitar
Here are some fantastic Led Zeppelin tracks that are well-suited for beginner guitarists. We’ve broken them down with details on tempo, chord types, and rhythm complexity to help you choose the best songs to start with.
Dazed and Confused
Tempo: 52 bpm
Chords: Power chords
Rhythm: 16th notes
“Dazed and Confused” is arguably one of the easiest Led Zeppelin songs for beginners to tackle. Its slow tempo and reliance on power chords make it very approachable. While it features 16th notes, the deliberate pace allows you to comfortably learn the riff and get your power chord changes down. This track is a great entry point into the “led zep guitar” sound.
The Girl I Love (She Got Long Black Wavy Hair)
Tempo: 92 bpm
Chords: Power chords
Rhythm: 16th notes
Slightly faster than “Dazed and Confused,” “The Girl I Love” still utilizes power chords and 16th note rhythms. This song is excellent for building your rhythm and power chord technique at a slightly increased tempo. It’s another solid choice for those wanting to explore “led zep guitar” riffs early on.
How Many More Times
Tempo: 144 bpm
Chords: Barre chords (can be substituted with open chords)
Rhythm: 8th notes
“How Many More Times” introduces barre chords, which can be challenging for true beginners. However, the beauty of this song is that you can easily play it using open chords instead, making it significantly easier. The 8th note rhythm is also less demanding than 16th notes, making this a good next step as you progress with “led zep guitar”.
Living Loving Maid (She’s Just a Woman)
Tempo: 150 bpm
Chords: Power chords and barre chords (can be substituted with open chords)
Rhythm: 8th notes
Similar to “How Many More Times,” “Living Loving Maid” includes barre chords that can be simplified to open chords for beginners. The 8th note rhythm and moderate tempo make it manageable. This song offers a slightly faster pace to practice your chord changes and rhythm, still within the realm of beginner “led zep guitar” songs.
The Ocean
Tempo: 89 bpm
Chords: Barre chords (D7, A, C, G – can be played open)
Rhythm: 16th notes
“The Ocean” features barre chords, but these chords (D7, A, C, and G) are common and can be played in open positions to simplify learning. The main riff, though in 16th notes, is repetitive and at a comfortable tempo. Experimenting with “The Ocean” is a great way to start tackling barre chords within the context of “led zep guitar”.
Bring It On Home
Tempo: 1st section – 114 bpm, 2nd section – 100 bpm
Chords: Power chords (1st section), Triads (2nd section)
Rhythm: 8th notes (1st section), 16th notes (2nd section)
“Bring It On Home” is divided into two sections. The first, with power chords and 8th notes, is very beginner-friendly. The second section introduces triads and 16th notes, offering a bit more challenge as you improve your “led zep guitar” skills. Focus on the first section initially as a great starting point.
Whole Lotta Love
Tempo: 90 bpm
Chords: Power chords
Rhythm: 16th notes
“Whole Lotta Love” is iconic and surprisingly accessible. While the main riff uses 16th notes played with downstrokes, which can feel fast, the tempo is manageable, and the riff itself is repetitive and memorable. Mastering “Whole Lotta Love” is a rite of passage for any aspiring “led zep guitar” player.
Misty Mountain Hop
Tempo: 136 bpm
Chords: Barre chords and open chords
Rhythm: 8th notes
“Misty Mountain Hop” combines barre and open chords with an 8th note rhythm. It also features a guitar solo that, while harmonized in the original, is simple enough for beginners to attempt in a simplified single-guitar version. This makes it a rewarding song to learn as you progress with “led zep guitar”.
Hey Hey What Can I Do
Tempo: 76 bpm
Chords: Barre chords and open chords (A, E, G, D, F minor)
Rhythm: 16th notes
“Hey Hey What Can I Do” is played in a slightly lower tuning (3/4 step down), but in standard tuning it’s still very learnable. It uses a mix of barre and open chords and features 16th note rhythms at a comfortable tempo. This song is a great option for expanding your “led zep guitar” repertoire.
In The Light
Tempo: 128 bpm
Chords: Unusual chord forms in bridge, 8th notes for riffs
Rhythm: 8th notes
“In The Light” is known for its keyboard intro, but once the guitar riff kicks in, it’s very playable. The main riffs are based on 8th notes, and while the bridge section has more complex chords, the verses and choruses are beginner-friendly. Explore the riffs of “In The Light” to discover a different side of “led zep guitar”.
Houses of the Holy
Tempo: 120 bpm
Chords: Open chords
Rhythm: 8th notes (some 16th note pentatonic riffs can be ignored initially)
“Houses of the Holy” is primarily based on open chords and 8th notes. It does have faster 16th note pentatonic riffs between verses, but beginners can focus on the main chords and rhythm first and add the riffs later as their skills develop. This song is excellent for practicing open chords in a “led zep guitar” context.
Walter’s Walk
Tempo: 172 bpm
Chords: Riffs (no chords primarily)
Rhythm: 8th notes
“Walter’s Walk” is riff-driven with minimal chord work. It’s faster in tempo but relies on 8th notes, making it rhythmically manageable. If you’re ready to tackle faster tempos and focus on riff playing, “Walter’s Walk” is an interesting “led zep guitar” challenge.
Start Your Led Zeppelin Guitar Journey Today
Led Zeppelin’s music is iconic and influential, and you don’t have to be an advanced player to start learning their songs. These beginner-friendly tracks offer a fantastic entry point into the world of “led zep guitar”. Start with the slower songs, gradually work your way up in tempo and complexity, and enjoy the process of learning to play the music of one of rock’s greatest bands. Happy playing!
