The 12 string guitar, with its doubled courses of strings, is an instrument renowned for its lush, shimmering sound. Unlike its 6-string counterpart, the 12-string guitar produces a richer, more resonant tone, often described as “jangly” due to the octave tuning of its string pairs. This unique sonic character has made it a favorite among musicians across genres, from rock and folk to country and pop, adding depth and texture to countless iconic songs.
Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or simply a music lover, exploring the world of 12 String Guitar Songs is a rewarding journey. This article will take you through a curated selection of popular tracks that have been elevated by the enchanting sound of the 12-string guitar. Get ready to discover (or rediscover) some musical gems and appreciate the magic this instrument brings to the world of music.
Iconic 12 String Guitar Tracks
Wanted Dead Or Alive – Bon Jovi
Bon Jovi’s “Wanted Dead or Alive,” a quintessential 80s rock anthem, wouldn’t be the same without its driving 12-string guitar presence. Released in 1987 as part of the album “Slippery When Wet,” this song quickly became a defining track for the band. The 12 string guitar riffs in “Wanted Dead or Alive” perfectly encapsulate the era’s rock sound, adding a bright, energetic layer to the song’s rebellious spirit. The lyrics, portraying a restless soul and the “wanted dead or alive” chorus, resonate with the thrill and edge of rock and roll, making it a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences today.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRvCvsRp5ho
Wish You Were Here – Pink Floyd
A vinyl record of Pink Floyd's "Wish You Were Here", showcasing the album cover art associated with this iconic 12-string guitar song.
Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here,” the title track from their 1975 album, is a masterclass in emotional depth, amplified by the delicate touch of a 12-string acoustic guitar. Written by Roger Waters and David Gilmour, this song is a poignant reflection on absence and emotional distance. The 12 string guitar intro is instantly recognizable, setting a melancholic tone that permeates the entire track. Gilmour’s soulful vocals and intricate 12 string guitar work are highlights, enhancing the song’s introspective nature. The haunting synthesizer melodies and the famous radio soundbite further contribute to the unique and enduring atmosphere of this rock classic.
Ocean – John Butler Trio
John Butler performing "Ocean" on a 12-string acoustic guitar, highlighting his intricate fingerstyle technique.
“Ocean” by John Butler is a tour de force of 12 string acoustic guitar mastery. Australian singer-songwriter John Butler is renowned for his exceptional acoustic guitar techniques, and “Ocean” is a prime example. Initially released as an instrumental piece in 1998 and later with lyrics in 2003, the song is a complex and intricate composition. It showcases percussive techniques and open tunings, demonstrating the full expressive potential of the 12-string guitar. Praised for its authenticity and power, “Ocean” has garnered worldwide acclaim, inspiring countless guitarists and captivating listeners with its dynamic and emotive soundscapes.
A Horse with No Name – America
The album cover for America's "A Horse with No Name", featuring the band's logo against a desert backdrop, reflecting the song's theme.
America’s debut single, “A Horse with No Name,” released in 1971, became an instant classic thanks in part to its mesmerizing 12 string acoustic guitar riff. Written by band member Dewey Bunnell, the song’s mellow folk-rock sound and reflective lyrics have enthralled audiences for decades. The opening 12 string guitar riff and the strumming pattern create a calming, introspective atmosphere, perfectly complementing the narrative of a desert journey and the search for meaning. The use of only a few chords (Em, D6/9, Em9, and Dmaj9) highlights the song’s simplicity and the effectiveness of the 12 string guitar in creating a rich, full sound.
Free Fallin’ – Tom Petty
Tom Petty in a promotional image for "Free Fallin'", showcasing his laid-back style associated with this 12-string guitar classic.
Tom Petty’s “Free Fallin’,” a classic rock staple from the 1980s, is defined by its laid-back 12 string acoustic guitar melody. With Petty’s distinctive vocals and a folk-rock vibe, the song is celebrated for its upbeat tune and relatable, moving lyrics. The 12 string guitar provides a foundation of warmth and texture, enhancing the song’s calm rhythm and moderate tempo. Despite also featuring a 6-string guitar, the 12 string guitar part blends seamlessly, contributing to the song’s overall richness and making it a beloved classic that continues to resonate across generations.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lWJXDG2i0A
More Than a Feeling – Boston
Boston's "More Than a Feeling" album cover, displaying the artwork associated with this iconic 12-string guitar rock anthem.
Boston’s “More Than a Feeling,” released in 1976 as their debut single, is immediately recognizable by its iconic 12 string guitar riff. This classic rock anthem features soaring vocals by Brad Delp, a catchy chorus, and layered harmonies, blending rock, pop, and progressive rock elements. The 12 string guitar is central to the song’s instrumentation, delivering a bright, ringing tone that is both powerful and melodic. Its commercial success and enduring appeal have solidified “More Than a Feeling” as a timeless rock classic, frequently featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4QK8RxCAwo
Ticket To Ride – The Beatles
The Beatles in a scene from the "Ticket to Ride" music video, capturing their energetic performance style in the 1960s.
“Ticket to Ride” by The Beatles, a landmark hit from the swinging 60s, showcases the innovative sound and charisma of the Fab Four, driven by a memorable 12 string guitar riff. The song, released in 1965, opens with an instantly recognizable and energetic riff played on a Rickenbacker 360/12 12 string electric guitar. This instrument, with its clean and slightly overdriven tones, is crucial to the song’s dynamic texture, complemented by warm and melodic bass tones. “Ticket to Ride” was a global commercial success, solidifying The Beatles’ legendary status and setting a new standard for popular music with its innovative structure and groundbreaking production.
Carry On – Fun.
Fun. performing "Carry On" in a music video, reflecting the song's themes of resilience and hope.
“Carry On” by Fun., the opening track from their 2012 album “Some Nights,” is known for its rich and energetic production, possibly incorporating 12 string guitar textures within its indie pop, rock, and symphonic orchestration. While specific 12 string guitar parts might be subtle within the mix, the song’s overall sonic richness and layered instrumentation align with the type of textures a 12-string can provide. “Carry On” is a powerful and compelling anthem of resilience and hope, resonating with audiences through its heartfelt lyrics, strong vocals, and explosive orchestration, encouraging listeners to persevere through challenges.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7yCLn-O-Y0
Hurricane – Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan playing a 12-string guitar during a performance, highlighting his folk music roots and social commentary.
Bob Dylan’s “Hurricane” is a powerful protest song, notable for Dylan’s use of a 12-string Danelectro guitar. Written in support of Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, a boxer wrongly imprisoned, the song is characterized by its complex message and Dylan’s passionate delivery. His 12 string guitar, a Danelectro with a lipstick-style pickup, contributes to the song’s “wall of sound” with wide-open chord strumming. The capo on the third fret and the instrument’s unique tone, resembling a telecaster with a mandolin-like quality, add to the song’s distinctive sonic signature. “Hurricane” became one of Dylan’s most popular hits, connecting with audiences and supporters of Rubin Carter, fueled by its compelling narrative and musical force.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bpZvg_FjL3Q
A Hard Day’s Night – The Beatles
The Beatles in "A Hard Day's Night" film, featuring George Harrison playing his iconic Rickenbacker 12-string electric guitar.
“A Hard Day’s Night” by The Beatles is another timeless classic that prominently features the renowned Rickenbacker 12-string electric guitar. This song, and the film of the same name, cemented the Rickenbacker 12-string’s place in music history. The guitar’s hollow body design and soap bar pickups gave it a distinctive twang, a signature sound in many iconic Beatles tracks. While the 12 string guitar parts in “A Hard Day’s Night” often stay within the minor blues/pentatonic range, similar to a 6-string electric guitar, the instrument’s unique tone makes all the difference. It delivers a delightfully twangy, “steel-like” sound, almost reminiscent of a sitar, an instrument the Beatles were known to admire.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yjyj8qnqkYI
Breaking the Girl – Red Hot Chili Peppers
Red Hot Chili Peppers in their "Breaking the Girl" music video, showcasing the song's introspective and melodic nature.
“Breaking the Girl” by Red Hot Chili Peppers, a standout track from their 1991 album “Blood Sugar Sex Magik,” showcases a different side of the band with its melodic and introspective sound, enhanced by a 12-string guitar. Released as a single in 1992, the song is known for its complex rhymes and emotional depth, inspired by frontman Anthony Kiedis’ personal experiences. Guitarist John Frusciante drew inspiration from Led Zeppelin ballads, incorporating a 12-string guitar and a Mellotron with a flute patch into the arrangement. These instruments contribute to the song’s unique texture and melodic richness, setting it apart from RHCP’s more typical funk-rock style.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iyu04pqC8lE
Stairway to Heaven – Led Zeppelin
A live performance of Led Zeppelin's "Stairway to Heaven", capturing the song's epic length and Jimmy Page's iconic guitar work.
Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven,” often hailed as one of the greatest rock songs of all time, features a masterful use of varied guitar tones, including 12 string acoustic guitar. From their 1971 album “Led Zeppelin IV,” the song is celebrated for its epic length, complex structure, and iconic guitar work by Jimmy Page. The song’s legendary status is amplified by its dynamic shifts in instrumentation, moving from delicate acoustic passages, likely featuring a 12 string acoustic guitar, to powerful electric sections and soaring guitar solos. This combination of acoustic and electric textures, along with the song’s emotional lyrics and epic composition, has cemented “Stairway to Heaven” as a timeless and influential rock masterpiece.
Mama, I’m Coming Home – Ozzy Osbourne
Ozzy Osbourne performing "Mama, I'm Coming Home", highlighting the song's emotional balladry and powerful vocals.
Ozzy Osbourne’s “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” released in 1991, is a powerful ballad co-written with Zakk Wylde and Lemmy Kilmister, distinguished by its sincere lyrics and dramatic guitar tones, including 12 string acoustic guitar. The song’s emotional impact is significantly enhanced by the interplay of 12 string acoustic and clear electric guitar tones. Zakk Wylde’s soulful guitar work, including moving solos and understated effects, creates a vibrant and musical soundscape that perfectly complements Osbourne’s strong vocals. The combination of these elements makes “Mama, I’m Coming Home” a standout and potent ballad within Osbourne’s extensive catalog.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0siYUjV9UM
I Stay Away – Alice In Chains
Alice in Chains performing "I Stay Away", capturing the band's signature grunge sound with acoustic undertones.
“I Stay Away” by Alice in Chains, the lead single from their 1994 EP “Jar of Flies,” is known for its haunting and introspective lyrics, effectively conveyed through an acoustic-driven instrumentation featuring 12 string guitars. Written by Jerry Cantrell, the song’s sad tone is enhanced by the use of acoustic guitars, a mournful cello, and atmospheric percussion. The 12 string guitar likely contributes to the overall textural richness and harmonic depth of the acoustic arrangement. The repeated chorus, “I stay away, I stay away,” reflects themes of isolation, addiction, and inner struggles, making “I Stay Away” a powerful and emotionally resonant song within the Alice in Chains discography.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODTv9Lt5WYs
As Tears Go By – The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones performing "As Tears Go By" in their early years, showcasing the song's baroque pop style.
“As Tears Go By,” while famously recorded by Marianne Faithfull in 1964, was originally written by The Rolling Stones and later re-recorded by them in 1965. This baroque rock and pop song is relatively simple to play on both 12 string guitar and standard acoustic guitar. The song’s gentle melody and melancholic lyrics are well-suited to the rich sound of a 12 string guitar, adding depth and resonance to its harmonic structure. With its basic chord progression (G, A, C, D, and Em), “As Tears Go By” remains an accessible and beautiful song to play and appreciate for its classic songwriting.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37_J7zpD2ks
’39 – Queen
Queen performing live, with Brian May playing a 12-string acoustic guitar for "'39".
“’39” by Queen, written and primarily sung by guitarist Brian May, showcases his talents on a stunning 12 string acoustic guitar. Featured on their 1975 album “A Night at the Opera,” the song tells the tale of astronauts embarking on a space journey. May’s 12 string guitar playing provides a rich, folk-inspired texture to the song, contrasting with Queen’s more typical rock anthems. His lead vocals and the song’s narrative themes of time, space, and longing contributed to its popularity upon release, making “’39” a unique and cherished track within Queen’s diverse catalog.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kE8kGMfXaFU
Hotel California – The Eagles
The Eagles' "Hotel California" album cover, iconic artwork associated with this famous 12-string guitar song.
“Hotel California” by The Eagles is arguably the most recognizable 12 string acoustic guitar song ever recorded. Released in 1976, it has remained a timeless classic, beloved by generations of listeners. The song’s intro, featuring a distinctive 12 string acoustic guitar melody, is instantly iconic. While often perceived as complex, the main theme of “Hotel California” is relatively straightforward to learn on guitar, making it a popular choice for aspiring musicians. The 12 string guitar is central to the song’s rich texture and harmonic complexity, contributing to its enduring beauty and widespread appeal.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09839DpTctU
Nothing Else Matters (Elevator Version) – Metallica
Metallica performing live, with Kirk Hammett playing a 12-string guitar in a unique rendition of "Nothing Else Matters".
Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters (Elevator Version)” offers a unique take on their iconic song, entirely layered with 12 string guitars. This version, featured on their “Sad But True” singles, reimagines the original track with a focus on the rich, shimmering sound of multiple 12 string guitars. It essentially mimics the original arrangement but replaces the electric guitars with 12 string guitars, creating a softer, yet texturally dense rendition. The “Elevator Version” also brings the orchestral elements more to the forefront, enhancing the song’s melodic and harmonic richness, and showcasing the versatility of the 12 string guitar in a heavy metal context.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2WkVg215Sg
If I Needed Someone – The Beatles
“If I Needed Someone” by The Beatles, released in 1965 on the “Rubber Soul” album, is a George Harrison composition that many fans consider one of his finest early works, featuring his 12 string guitar playing. Harrison wrote the song, reportedly for his wife Pattie Boyd, although the lyrics have been interpreted as addressing a more casual romantic interest. The song’s jangly, Byrds-esque sound is heavily driven by Harrison’s 12 string guitar, adding a bright, melodic texture that became characteristic of the mid-60s pop sound. Its inclusion on “Rubber Soul” highlights the Beatles’ experimentation with different sounds and textures during this period.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QZzB-ObU
Whatever That Hurts – Tiamat
Tiamat's "Whatever That Hurts" music video still, showcasing the band's gothic metal aesthetic from the 90s.
“Whatever That Hurts” by Swedish metal band Tiamat stands out on this list for its genre, showcasing the 12 string guitar in a gothic metal context. Released in 1994, the song is considered one of Tiamat’s greatest and most profound works, featuring notable 12 string guitar arpeggio passages. These passages add a layer of melodic complexity and texture to the song’s dark and atmospheric sound, demonstrating the 12 string guitar’s versatility beyond folk, rock, and pop genres. The music video itself is also noteworthy, complementing the song’s brooding and artistic nature.
Early Morning Rain – Gordon Lightfoot
Gordon Lightfoot performing "Early Morning Rain" with his signature acoustic guitar style.
“Early Morning Rain” by Gordon Lightfoot, a timeless song written and recorded in the mid-1960s, is a classic example of folk songwriting beautifully enhanced by the 12 string guitar. Featured on his album “Lightfoot!”, the song is known for its gentle melody and evocative lyrics. Playing “Early Morning Rain” on a 12 string guitar tuned to drop D (lowering the two lowest strings by two semitones) and using a capo on the third fret allows guitarists to capture the song’s signature sound. The 12 string guitar adds richness and depth to Lightfoot’s fingerpicking style, making it a quintessential folk song for 12 string guitar enthusiasts.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1pqttl9aWm0
Playing 6-String Songs on a 12-String Guitar
One common question among guitarists is whether you can play songs originally composed for a 6-string guitar on a 12-string. The answer is a resounding yes! The beauty of the 12 string guitar lies in its ability to enhance existing melodies and harmonies. By playing the same chords and notes as you would on a 6-string, you automatically enrich the sound with the 12-string’s doubled strings and octave tuning. This adds a layer of complexity and resonance, making familiar songs sound even fuller and more vibrant. While some chord voicings or techniques might require slight adjustments on a 12-string, the core principles remain the same, allowing you to expand your musical repertoire and explore new sonic possibilities with your 12 string guitar.
Conclusion
The 12 string guitar has undeniably left an indelible mark on music history. From the jangly riffs of rock anthems to the delicate fingerpicking of folk ballads, its unique sound has enriched countless songs across diverse genres. The tracks highlighted in this article are just a starting point for exploring the vast and captivating world of 12 string guitar songs. Whether you’re inspired to pick up a 12-string yourself or simply appreciate these iconic tracks with a newfound ear for their sonic depth, the magic of the 12 string guitar is sure to resonate with music lovers everywhere.
