Learning to play the guitar can be incredibly rewarding, especially when you can play songs you love. For many beginner guitarists, The Beatles are a band they dream of playing. The good news is, with a focus on beginner-friendly chords, many iconic Beatles tracks are within reach. Forget complicated solos and intricate arrangements for now; let’s dive into some easy Beatles songs perfect for those just starting their guitar journey, focusing on accessible Beatles Guitar Chords. Many online resources might point you towards more challenging songs, but this guide will set you on the right path with truly achievable tunes.
Beatles Songs Using Simple Guitar Chords (No C Chord)
For beginners, mastering a few fundamental chords is key. These Beatles songs avoid the C chord, often a stumbling block for new players, and rely on other easy guitar chords.
The Ballad of John and Yoko: This song is a fantastic starting point. Using just E, E7, A, and B7 chords, it’s rhythmically straightforward. The strumming pattern is simple – consistent down-up eighth notes. Focus on keeping a steady rhythm, and you’ll have this one down quickly. Ignore the fancier electric guitar parts and concentrate on strumming the basic chords.
Twist and Shout: A classic party anthem! “Twist and Shout” is built around D, G, and A chords, repeated throughout the song. There’s a guitar riff between chord changes which you can simply strum through as you learn. Its repetitive nature makes it excellent for practicing chord transitions and building stamina.
Get Back: “Get Back” is another song that’s easier than it sounds. While there’s a bluesy riff, beginners can strum through it. The core chords are manageable for early learners and the song has a great, driving rhythm to keep you engaged.
Maxwell’s Silver Hammer: Originally a piano-based song, “Maxwell’s Silver Hammer” translates surprisingly well to guitar. It features a simple quarter note rhythm and avoids the G chord entirely. You will encounter a B7 chord, which might be new, but the song’s overall simplicity makes it a great one to learn.
Hey Jude (with Capo): While “Hey Jude” might seem daunting, using a capo at the 3rd fret simplifies the chords considerably. With a capo, you can play along using D, A, G, and Emin chords. The challenge here is the number of chord changes, so focus on smooth transitions between them.
I’ve Got A Feeling: This song introduces a slightly more complex strumming feel, but beginners can simplify it to basic strums. The chords are A, D, E, and G. While The Beatles sometimes used barre chords in this song, stick to open chords as you learn.
Beatles Songs Featuring the C Guitar Chord
Once you’re comfortable with the chords above, adding the C chord opens up even more Beatles songs.
Your Mother Should Know: Like many Beatles songs, “Your Mother Should Know” was originally played on piano. It has a straightforward quarter note rhythm and uses open chords like Fmaj7 and A minor, alongside the C chord. A bonus for guitarists is that the piano solo can be adapted for guitar!
You’ve Got To Hide Your Love Away: This song introduces a different time signature (6/8 time) and includes an Fmaj9 chord and a four-finger C chord variation. There’s also a small guitar riff in the chorus between the G and D chords, but the core chord progression is manageable.
All You Need Is Love: “All You Need Is Love” presents some rhythmic challenges with alternating 4/4 and 3/4 measures in the verse and a series of D chords with a descending bass line. The chorus includes A7sus4 and B7 chords, adding slightly more complexity, but it’s still approachable with practice.
Yellow Submarine: A singalong classic that’s relatively simple on guitar! The chords are easy and repetitive, making it a fun song to learn and play along to.
Beatles Songs with the F Guitar Chord
The F chord is often considered a hurdle for beginner guitarists. Once you tackle it, these songs become accessible.
Let It Be: “Let It Be” is another piano-based ballad that’s beautiful on guitar. It primarily uses C, F, G, and A minor chords. The melodic runs played with F and A minor chords are optional and can be added later as you progress.
Can’t Buy Me Love: This upbeat track has a faster shuffle rhythm and introduces C7 and D minor 7 chords. While the rhythm is quicker and the chords slightly more advanced, it’s a great song to aim for as you improve.
Guitar Riff Focused Beatles Songs (For Later)
While the focus here is on chords, these Beatles songs are known for their iconic guitar riffs. They might be slightly more challenging for absolute beginners but are great goals as you develop your skills.
Hey Bulldog: With a capo on the 2nd fret, the main riff becomes accessible on the 5th string using open notes. The verse chords (relative to the capo) are A7, E minor, G, A, and D. There’s also a chromatic riff in the bridge that’s similar to a blues riff in style.
Day Tripper: The “Day Tripper” riff involves playing across three strings and is a step up in complexity. Power chords are used in the chorus (E5, G5, A5), so familiarity with power chords is helpful for this song.
Come Together: “Come Together” features a slow, bluesy riff in the verse and power chords (B5, G5, and A5) in the chorus. This song is a cool introduction to blues-style guitar within the Beatles catalog.
Starting with easy Beatles guitar chords is a fantastic way to learn guitar while playing songs you love. Begin with the songs that avoid the C and F chords, and gradually work your way up as your skills improve. Remember to practice regularly, and soon you’ll be playing your favorite Beatles tunes! For further exploration of easy songs by popular artists, check out resources like beginner guitar lessons online.
