Learning guitar is an exciting journey, and playing your favorite songs is a fantastic reward for your dedication. If you’re a beginner guitarist with a love for that classic country sound, you’re in luck! Country music is filled with songs that are wonderfully accessible for new players, allowing you to quickly progress and enjoy making music.
You’ve already taken the crucial first steps – learning to tune your guitar, mastering how to hold a pick, and even practicing basic chords. Now, it’s time to put those skills into action and learn some real songs. Forget struggling with complex riffs and overwhelming chord progressions. We’re diving into the world of easy country guitar songs, perfect for building your confidence and repertoire.
Country music is a treasure trove for guitarists of all levels, especially beginners. It offers a variety of techniques to explore as you grow, from the rhythmic strumming that drives many country hits to the foundational bass note fingerpicking style. These techniques are the building blocks of countless songs, played by legends and contemporary artists alike.
To get you started, we’ve compiled a list of 19 easy country songs that are ideal for beginner guitarists. These songs are not only simple to learn but also incredibly fun to play, spanning from timeless classics to modern country anthems. Get ready to impress yourself and your friends with these easy-to-master tunes!
Dolly Parton: “Jolene”
“Jolene” by Dolly Parton is a heartfelt and iconic country ballad, known for its captivating melody and relatable lyrics about jealousy and insecurity. This song is remarkably easy for beginner guitarists to learn, built around just three fundamental country guitar chords: Am, C, and G. The beauty of “Jolene” lies in its strumming. It utilizes different strumming speeds and alternate strumming patterns, allowing you to develop a sensitive and dynamic playing style, from slow and gentle to more rhythmic. Its simplicity and emotional depth have made “Jolene” one of the most covered country songs ever, with artists like Jaime Wyatt adding their unique spins.
Check out Jaime Wyatt’s version of “Jolene” to hear a modern, gritty take on this classic.
Chords Used: Am, C, G
Learn how to play “Jolene” by Dolly Parton
Willie Nelson: “On the Road Again”
“On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson is a quintessential country anthem about the joys of touring and making music with friends. This song is instantly recognizable and incredibly fun to play on guitar. It features a driving rhythm guitar strumming pattern that gives the song its energetic and bouncy feel. Beginners will appreciate the simplified melody riff that serves as an accessible entry point into this country standard. “On the Road Again” is a fantastic song for practicing the bass note strum technique, a cornerstone of country guitar. Whether played solo, focusing on bass notes and strumming, or with a group, dividing parts between picking and strumming, this song is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a great way to “make music with my friends again.”
Chords used: C, G, F
Learn how to play “On the Road Again”.
Hank Williams: “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)”
Hank Williams’ “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)” is a classic example of early country music songwriting, showcasing his signature single-note picking technique that helped define the genre. This #1 Billboard Hot Country single is built on a simple chord progression and a catchy melody, making it a timeless country favorite. For beginner guitarists, “Jambalaya” is excellent because it primarily uses just two easy guitar chords, allowing you to focus on rhythm and timing. This song is a fantastic introduction to the foundational elements of country guitar and a glimpse into the genius of Hank Williams’ songwriting.
Basics needed: C, G7
Learn how to play “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)” here.
Steven Goodwin: “City of New Orleans”
“City of New Orleans,” written by Steve Goodman and notably covered by Arlo Guthrie and Willie Nelson, is a ’70s country classic that evokes a sense of nostalgia and travel. Produced by Kris Kristofferson, this song is a testament to Goodman’s songwriting prowess and its broad appeal. For beginner guitarists, “City of New Orleans” is a perfect song to practice and solidify your bass note strumming techniques. The gentle tempo and repetitive chord structure make it easy to follow along and build your rhythmic confidence. Learning this song allows you to master a key country guitar technique while playing a beautifully written and widely loved tune.
Chords Used: G, C, D7
Learn how to play “City of New Orleans” here.
Dolly Parton: “I Will Always Love You”
While famously known for Whitney Houston’s powerful rendition in “The Bodyguard,” “I Will Always Love You” was originally written and performed by Dolly Parton. Her version, featured in the film “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas,” offers a more tender and emotionally nuanced take on this iconic ballad. Dolly’s original version of “I Will Always Love You” is an acoustic country ballad that emphasizes heartfelt delivery over vocal theatrics. For guitarists, this song introduces techniques like the country-style walk down and fingerpicking with a bass note strum, but in a way that’s still manageable for beginners. The slower tempo and emphasis on chord changes make it a beautiful and accessible song to learn, allowing you to explore dynamics and expression in your playing.
Hear Jaime Wyatt’s version of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” for another interpretation.
Chords Used: G, D, C
Learn how to play “I Will Always Love You” by Dolly Parton
John Denver: “Thank God I’m a Country Boy”
“Thank God I’m a Country Boy” by John Denver is an upbeat and celebratory anthem that topped both the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and the Hot 100 in 1975. This song resonates with its themes of hard work and small-town pride, blending folk and country guitar styles seamlessly. Beginner guitarists will enjoy learning the catchy melodic riff and practicing bass note picking, which gives this song its distinctive country flavor. “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” is perfect for adding a lively and energetic tune to your repertoire while developing essential country guitar techniques.
Chords Used: G, C, D
Learn how to play “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” here.
Carrie Underwood: “Blown Away”
Carrie Underwood, often hailed as the new “Queen of Country,” showcases her modern country sound with “Blown Away.” This Grammy-winning track was her 13th No. 1 hit on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and reached No. 20 on the Hot 100, proving its widespread appeal. What makes “Blown Away” beginner-friendly on guitar is its simple structure – it revolves around just one chord progression that repeats throughout the song. This allows beginners to focus on rhythm and performance without getting bogged down by complicated chord changes. Learning “Blown Away” is a great way to play a contemporary country hit and understand how powerful songwriting can be built on a foundation of simplicity.
Chords Used: Am, G, C, F
Learn how to play “Blown Away” here.
Willie Nelson: “Whiskey River”
“Whiskey River” by Willie Nelson is a classic country track that delves into the familiar theme of using strong liquor to cope with sorrow, a staple in country music storytelling. This song is musically interesting because it shifts time signatures throughout, speeding up and slowing down, giving it a dynamic and engaging feel, all while using only four chords. For guitarists, “Whiskey River” is a great introduction to essential country guitar techniques like alternate strumming and string muting. These techniques add texture and rhythm to your playing, and “Whiskey River” provides a perfect context to practice them within a well-known and loved country song.
Check out Eugene Edwards and Chris Masterson playing the solo to “Whiskey River” to see expert guitarists’ interpretations.
Techniques Used: Alternate strumming, string muting
Learn how to play “Whiskey River”.
Dolly Parton: “Coat of Many Colors”
“Coat of Many Colors” is another gem from Dolly Parton, a deeply personal and touching song that tells a story of childhood poverty and a mother’s love. This acoustic country ballad is celebrated for its narrative and emotional resonance. Similar to “I Will Always Love You,” “Coat of Many Colors” is accessible for beginner guitarists and features techniques such as a country-style walk down and fingerpicking combined with a bass note strum. The song’s gentle pace and focus on storytelling make it a rewarding piece to learn, allowing you to connect with the emotion of the lyrics while developing your guitar skills.
Hear Jaime Wyatt’s version of Dolly Parton’s “Coat of Many Colors” for a different take on this poignant song.
Basics needed: G, C, D
Learn how to play “Coat of Many Colors” by Dolly Parton
Dwight Yoakam: “Guitars, Cadillacs”
Dwight Yoakam’s “Guitars, Cadillacs” is a vibrant and energetic country song that encapsulates many classic country guitar techniques, harking back to the genre’s roots. Guitarist Eugene Edwards describes its intro as “the history of country music all in one really catchy riff,” highlighting its rich guitar heritage. “Guitars, Cadillacs” is a study in different picking styles, challenging beginner guitarists with 16th note picking, downpicking, and hammer-ons, but in a way that’s still approachable. It’s a fun and engaging song to play, relying on both rhythm and lead elements, including chord work and string-bending country riffs.
Hear Dwight Yoakam’s guitarist, Eugene Edwards, play the intro to “Guitars, Cadillacs,” and appreciate the intricate guitar work.
Techniques Used: Fingerpicking, country strum, 16th note picking, downpicking, hammer-ons
Learn how to play “Guitars, Cadillacs” here”
Buck Owens: “Together Again”
“Together Again” by Buck Owens is a No. 1 Billboard Country hit from one of his strongest albums of the ’60s, a decade rich in country music history. This song is a straightforward and heartfelt classic that’s excellent for learning the bass note strum, a fundamental technique in country guitar. “Together Again” is perfect for practicing this essential strumming pattern in the context of a beautifully simple and emotionally resonant song. Grab your Telecaster and dive into this country guitar staple to master a key technique while playing a timeless tune.
Chords used: G, C, D7
Learn how to play “Together Again” here.
Traditional: “I Shall Not Be Moved”
“I Shall Not Be Moved,” in the version popularized by bluesman Mississippi John Hurt, is a classic that has influenced blues, rock, and country musicians alike. Hurt’s rendition of this traditional song is a lesson in songwriting and how to create compelling music with countrified chords. Covered by Johnny Cash, Son House, and even Elvis Presley, “I Shall Not Be Moved” spans folk, blues, and country genres. For beginner guitarists, this song is ideal because it features just three basic chords and syncopated rhythms that are engaging and not overly complex. Learning this song provides a foundation in rhythm and chord work while exploring a piece of music history.
Techniques used: Basic chords, syncopated rhythms
Learn how to play “I Shall Not Be Moved”.
Maren Morris: “My Church”
“My Church” by Maren Morris is a modern country song with a timeless feel, exploring themes of personal connection and the spiritual experience of music. This song reflects on how listening to music in your car can be a deeply moving and almost religious experience. Musically, “My Church” is built around three open major chords – A, D, and E – which ring out powerfully. For beginner guitarists, these chords are among the first learned, making the song immediately accessible. The song incorporates different strumming techniques, including alternate strumming, quarter note, and eighth note strumming, adding rhythmic variety and challenge as you progress.
Chords used: A, D, E
Learn how to play “My Church”.
Traditional: “Pay Me My Money Down”
“Pay Me My Money Down” is a traditional song that has journeyed through folk and country music history. Performed by The Weavers in their influential 1955 Carnegie Hall concerts and popularized further by The Kingston Trio in 1957, it was Bruce Springsteen who revitalized it for a new audience on his 2006 folk album, “We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions.” Its old-timey vibe introduces younger generations to traditional country song structures and guitar work. “Pay Me My Money Down” is excellent for beginners because it utilizes one-finger chords, simplifying chord shapes and rhythm patterns. It’s a fun and historical song to learn, bridging past and present country music.
Chords used: G, C, D
Learn how to play “Pay Me My Money Down” here.
Jamie Wyatt “Just a Woman”
Jamie Wyatt, often called the new queen of outlaw country, brings a raw and authentic edge to her music, evident in “Just a Woman.” This song, played with a capo on the first fret, showcases Wyatt’s dynamic songwriting and guitar style. For beginner guitarists looking to explore beyond basic strumming, “Just a Woman” introduces chord changes, the classic bass-note strum technique, and percussive strumming. These techniques add depth and a vintage country feel, aligning with Wyatt’s outlaw country vibe. Learning this song is a step towards more nuanced country guitar playing while engaging with a contemporary outlaw country artist.
Listen to Jaime Wyatt play her song, “Just a Woman,” and observe her guitar techniques.
Techniques used: Bass-note strum, percussive strumming
Learn how to play “Coat of Many Colors” by Dolly Parton
Brad Paisley: “He Didn’t Have to Be”
Brad Paisley, a master of the Telecaster and a defining voice in modern country, demonstrates his accessible songwriting with “He Didn’t Have to Be.” This easy-to-learn smash hit was his first No. 1, and it’s a testament to its simple yet effective construction. “He Didn’t Have to Be” is perfect for beginner guitarists looking to refine their strumming hand technique. The song’s easygoing tempo and clear chord progression allow you to focus on rhythm and consistency in your strumming. Learning this song not only adds a popular modern country hit to your repertoire but also helps solidify fundamental strumming skills.
Basic Skills Needed: Strumming technique
Learn how to play “He Didn’t Have to Be” here.
Merle Haggard: “The Fightin’ Side of Me”
“The Fightin’ Side of Me” by Merle Haggard is a quintessential patriotic country anthem and a great song for learning a common chord progression used across many music genres. This song is straightforward and impactful, both in its message and musical structure. By learning “The Fightin’ Side of Me,” beginner guitarists will become familiar with the E, A, and B7 chords, a progression found in countless songs beyond country music. This makes it a versatile and valuable song to learn early in your guitar journey, expanding your chord vocabulary and musical understanding.
Techniques used: E, A, B7 chords
Learn how to play “The Fightin’ Side of Me” here.
Willie Nelson: “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies”
“Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys,” famously sung by Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings, is a cautionary and humorous tale about the cowboy lifestyle. This song’s ambling fingerpicking style perfectly evokes the rambling nature of cowboys, while the bass note strum technique gives it a grounded, earthy feel. For guitarists, “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies” is an excellent song for practicing fingerpicking in a country context and refining the bass note strum technique. The song’s relaxed tempo and repetitive structure make it accessible for beginners while offering valuable practice in these key country guitar styles.
Country guitarists Eugene Edwards and Chris Masterson offer their rendition of “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys,” showcasing cool guitar effects on Willie’s classic.
Techniques used: Fingerpicking, bass note strum
Learn how to play “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys” here.
Merle Haggard: “I Think I’ll Just Stay Here and Drink”
“I Think I’ll Just Stay Here and Drink” by Merle Haggard is another outlaw country classic, delivering a honky-tonk feel perfect for guitar. This song allows you to dive into country guitar staples like shuffle-style strumming and bass note eighth strumming, all laid out with easy open chords: A, D, and E. Originally featuring piano and saxophone, guitarists Eugene Edwards and Chris Masterson have adapted “I Think I’ll Just Stay Here and Drink” for guitar, incorporating licks and bass note strumming. Learning this song is a fun way to explore different strumming patterns and classic country rhythms while playing a honky-tonk standard.
Techniques used: Shuffle-style strumming, bass note eighth strumming
Learn how to play “I Think I’ll just Stay Here and Drink.
Ready to explore even more country songs and guitar skills? Sign up for a free trial of Fender Play to unlock a wealth of songs and lessons tailored for beginners. Fender Play offers a structured and enjoyable way to learn guitar, with courses designed to get you playing your favorite music quickly and confidently.
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For more song suggestions in other genres and skill levels, check out these articles: Folk Songs | Pop Songs | Rock Songs | Blues Songs | Songs for Electric Guitar | Songs for Acoustic Guitar | Songs with 3 Chords
