Learning guitar is an exciting journey, and diving into your favorite songs is a fantastic way to kickstart your progress. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of playing a well-known tune, especially when you can share it with friends and family. While aspirations of shredding like Van Halen or riffing like Cream are admirable long-term goals, remember that even guitar legends started with the basics.
So, grab your acoustic guitar or electric guitar, and let’s explore 40 Easy Songs To Learn On Guitar. These songs are perfect for beginners and can be mastered with resources like Fender Play, designed to guide you through each step.
Ready to begin? You can even try Fender Play today and access a free trial to get started on your musical journey right away.
Simplest Songs: Learn Guitar with Just a Few Chords
These songs are incredibly beginner-friendly, often using just a handful of basic chords. They’re perfect for getting your fingers familiar with the fretboard and practicing smooth chord transitions.
1. J Mascis: “Feel The Pain”
J Mascis, known for his work with Dinosaur Jr., draws inspiration from Black Sabbath and classic rock. “Feel The Pain” offers a unique blend of punk, rock, and indie alternative that’s surprisingly accessible for beginners.
Learn how to play “Feel The Pain” here.
2. Oasis: “Wonderwall”
“Wonderwall,” from Oasis’s iconic album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, became a global anthem in 1996. This song ushered in a new wave of British rock and remains a favorite for its singalong quality and simple chord structure.
Learn how to play “Wonderwall” here.
3. The Bobby Fuller Four: “I Fought the Law”
Written by Sonny Curtis of the Crickets, “I Fought the Law” is a classic rebel song covered by many, including The Clash. The Bobby Fuller Four’s version, a Rolling Stone “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” pick, is simplified into an easy campfire strumming tune, perfect for developing your rhythm.
Learn how to play “I Fought the Law” here.
17. Creedence Clearwater Revival: “Bad Moon Rising”
“Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival is a timeless rock and roll track. Its upbeat tempo and straightforward strumming make it an excellent choice for learning basic chords (D, A, and G) and practicing chord changes smoothly. Despite its ominous lyrics, the song’s cheerful sound is instantly recognizable and fun to play.
Learn how to play “Bad Moon Rising” here.
31. Hank Williams: “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)”
Hank Williams, a pioneer of country guitar, showcases his mastery of simple yet effective song structures in “Jambalaya (On the Bayou).” This song, a chart-topping hit, features a catchy melody and a basic chord progression, making it a fantastic entry point into country guitar. You only need to master two chords to play along!
Learn how to play “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)” here.
Easy Pop & Country Songs to Learn on Guitar
This section features popular songs from pop and country genres. These songs are not only catchy but also built on chord progressions that are easy for beginners to grasp, allowing you to quickly play along to familiar tunes.
4. Carrie Underwood: “Blown Away”
Carrie Underwood, often hailed as the “Queen of Country,” brings a modern edge to classic country songwriting. “Blown Away,” a chart-topping hit, is surprisingly simple to play, built around a single chord progression. This Grammy-winning song is a rewarding challenge for beginner guitarists.
Learn how to play “Blown Away” here.
5. Lukas Graham: “7 Years”
Danish pop band Lukas Graham achieved international fame with “7 Years.” This 2015 hit topped charts worldwide and earned Grammy nominations. Its heartfelt lyrics and accessible guitar chords make it a great song for beginners looking to play a contemporary pop hit.
Learn how to play “7 Years” here.
6. Brad Paisley: “He Didn’t Have to Be”
Brad Paisley, a Telecaster virtuoso, is a defining voice in modern country music. “He Didn’t Have to Be,” his first No. 1 hit, exemplifies his easy-to-learn style. This song is excellent for refining your strumming technique while playing a popular and relatable country ballad.
Learn how to play “He Didn’t Have to Be” here.
14. Grace VanderWaal: “Clay”
Grace VanderWaal, a ukulele prodigy, showcases her songwriting talent in “Clay.” This metaphorical song about bullying, from her debut album Perfectly Imperfect, features just four simple open position chords: G, E minor, D, and C. It’s a heartfelt ballad that’s easy to learn and play on guitar.
Learn how to play “Clay” here.
19. Andra Day: “Rise Up”
“Rise Up,” Andra Day’s platinum-selling debut single, is an empowering anthem with a strong message. Released in 2015, this song’s uplifting melody and relatively simple chord structure make it a motivational and achievable song for beginner guitarists to learn.
Learn how to play “Rise Up” here.
22. Frankie Ballard: “Helluva Life”
Frankie Ballard’s “Helluva Life” is an upbeat country anthem about gratitude. This popular track, certified Gold, is known for its positive message and catchy melody. It’s also built on a chord progression that’s easy for beginners to pick up, making it a fun and rewarding song to learn.
Learn how to play “Helluva Life” here.
35. Paolo Nutini: “Candy”
Paolo Nutini’s “Candy,” a worldwide hit in 2009, blends neo-soul with a catchy pop sensibility. This song, possibly his most recognized, offers a folky feel when played on guitar. Fender Play instructor Scott Goldbaum’s lesson simplifies it with alternate and syncopated strumming, making it accessible for beginners.
Learn how to play “Candy” here.
39. John Legend: “All of Me”
John Legend’s “All of Me,” originally a piano ballad, translates beautifully to guitar. The song’s intro and verses feature gorgeous open chords – E minor, C, G, and D – with A minor joining in later. Its emotional depth and straightforward chord progression make it a compelling song for beginner guitarists to learn and express themselves.
Learn how to play “All of Me” here.
Classic Rock & Blues: Easy Guitar Songs with Iconic Riffs
For those drawn to the sounds of rock and blues, these songs offer iconic riffs and rhythms that are surprisingly easy to learn on guitar. They provide a gateway to these genres and allow beginners to play some truly legendary tunes.
7. The Rolling Stones: “Honky Tonk Women”
“Honky Tonk Women,” a classic from The Rolling Stones, topped charts in both the UK and US. Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, this song is built around the G chord and features a memorable intro riff. This lesson will guide you through the intro, verse, and chorus, making it a fun and achievable rock classic for beginners.
Learn how to play “Honky Tonk Women” here.
8. Jimi Hendrix: “Purple Haze”
“Purple Haze” is a signature song by Jimi Hendrix, released in 1967. This track introduced many to Hendrix’s revolutionary psychedelic rock sound. While Hendrix’s solos can be complex, the rhythm guitar parts of “Purple Haze” are accessible to beginners and offer a taste of rock history.
Learn how to play “Purple Haze” here.
16. The Isley Brothers: “Shout”
“Shout” by The Isley Brothers, while not a massive chart-topper initially, has become a cultural phenomenon due to its longevity and infectious energy. It’s a staple at events and parties, instantly recognizable and fun to play. Learning “Shout” allows beginners to tap into a song that’s all about rhythm and feeling.
Learn how to play “Shout” here.
20. Willie Dixon: “I Can’t Quit You Baby”
Willie Dixon’s blues classic “I Can’t Quit You Baby” was first recorded by Otis Rush in 1956 and later famously covered by Led Zeppelin. This song is built on three basic chords (G, C, and D), making it a fundamental blues tune for beginners to learn. It’s a great way to explore the roots of rock and roll.
Learn how to play “I Can’t Quit You Baby” here.
23. Carl Perkins: “Matchbox”
Carl Perkins’ “Matchbox,” a rockabilly classic from 1956, is famously simple, using only three chords: A, D, and E. This song is perfect for practicing alternate strumming and solidifying your rhythm guitar skills. Even The Beatles covered “Matchbox,” highlighting its enduring appeal and beginner-friendly structure.
Learn how to play “Matchbox”.
24. Elmore James: “It Hurts Me Too”
“It Hurts Me Too” is a blues standard, initially recorded in 1940, with lyrics popularized by Elmore James. James’ version, with only three chords (A5, A6, D5, D6, E5, and E6), is an excellent entry point into blues guitar. Learning this song introduces beginners to blues chord variations and classic blues structure.
Learn how to play “It Hurts Me Too” here.
26. Muddy Waters: “Mannish Boy”
Muddy Waters’ “Mannish Boy,” released in 1955, is a blues anthem known for its powerful, repetitive riff. This song reached No. 5 on the Billboard R&B chart and is driven by a bluesy riff that runs throughout the entire song. Learning “Mannish Boy” is a fantastic way to get into blues rhythm guitar and develop a feel for blues riffs.
Learn how to play “Mannish Boy” here.
27. Guitar Slim: “Things That I Used to Do”
Guitar Slim’s “Things That I Used to Do” is defined by a single chord progression using just three chords: E, A, and B7. This New Orleans blues hit from 1953 topped the R&B charts for six weeks. This lesson focuses on mastering this essential chord progression, crucial for playing blues and early rock and roll.
Learn how to play “Things That I Used to Do” here.
30. ZZ Top: “Tush”
ZZ Top’s “Tush,” from their album Tush, is a hard rock classic that VH1 ranked among the greatest hard rock songs. This 12-bar blues-rocker takes inspiration from John Lee Hooker’s rhythm and adds a hard rock edge. Simplified to a campfire version by Fender Play instructor Scott Goldbaum, it uses a three-chord (D, G, C) progression, making it surprisingly accessible for beginners.
Learn how to play “Tush” here.
36. Blue Öyster Cult: “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper”
“(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” by Blue Öyster Cult, released in 1976, is the band’s most successful single. Known for its haunting melody and lyrics about mortality, this song was named Song of the Year by Rolling Stone despite its eerie theme. Learning to play “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” introduces beginners to minor chords and atmospheric rock sounds.
Learn how to play “Don’t Fear the Reaper” here.
Folk, Indie & Alternative: Easy Guitar Songs with a Modern Twist
This section highlights songs from folk, indie, and alternative genres. These songs often feature fingerpicking patterns or strumming styles that are engaging for beginners while still being relatively easy to learn and perform.
9. Joni Mitchell: “Big Yellow Taxi”
Joni Mitchell’s “Big Yellow Taxi,” released in 1970, is a classic from her album Ladies of the Canyon. Mitchell wrote the song in Hawaii, inspired by the contrast between beautiful scenery and urban development. Its fingerpicking pattern and simple chords make it an excellent song for acoustic guitar beginners to learn and enjoy.
Learn how to play “Big Yellow Taxi” here.
10. Buddy Holly: “Not Fade Away”
Buddy Holly’s “Not Fade Away,” recorded in 1957 with The Crickets, is a rock and roll staple inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. This song, with just three chords (E, A, and D major), is taught by Fender Play instructor Nikki Stevens, who guides you through down strums and more percussive alternate strumming techniques.
Learn how to play “Not Fade Away.”
11. The National: “I Need My Girl”
The National’s “I Need My Girl,” a 2013 single, is simplified for beginners by Fender Play instructor Jen Trani. Using just four chords (A minor, C, F, and G) and a capo, this song becomes very accessible. It’s a perfect choice for learning to play with a capo and exploring a modern indie rock sound.
Learn how to play “I Need My Girl” here.
12. Leonard Cohen: “Hallelujah”
Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” is a timeless anthem, famously covered by Jeff Buckley. Cohen, a celebrated songwriter, poet, and novelist, created a song that resonates deeply with many. Despite its emotional complexity, “Hallelujah” can be played with relatively simple chord patterns, making it achievable for beginners to learn and appreciate.
Learn how to play “Hallelujah” here.
15. Delta Spirit: “California”
“California” was Delta Spirit’s breakthrough single in 2012, gaining the indie rock band significant radio airplay. This track blends jagged pop with roots-rock elements and features a cool alternate strum. With just four chords (A minor, C, G, and D), as taught by Fender Play’s Jen Trani, it’s a modern indie song that’s easy to pick up on guitar.
Learn how to play “California” here.
21. Butch Walker: “Chrissie Hynde”
Butch Walker’s “Chrissie Hynde,” from his 2014 album Afraid of Ghosts, is a folk-pop ballad with country undertones. This song, about finding solace in music, specifically The Pretenders, is built on a chord progression that’s gentle and easy to learn, suitable for beginners interested in folk and singer-songwriter styles.
Learn how to play “Chrissie Hynde here.
28. The Smithereens: “Blood & Roses”
“Blood & Roses” was a hit single for The Smithereens from their debut album Especially For You. Fender Play instructor Barrett Wilson guides you through this classic, which uses five chords (E minor, G, C, D, and A minor). The lesson focuses on pivot fingers and 8th note alternate strumming, offering a slightly more challenging but still beginner-friendly song.
Learn how to play “Blood & Roses” here.
29. Cracker: “Low”
Cracker’s “Low,” a 1993 hit, reached No. 3 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart. This song requires only four chords (D, C, E, and G) and focuses on basic chord switching with a consistent strum pattern. It’s a great song for practicing transitions between chords while playing a recognizable 90s rock tune.
Learn how to play “Low” here.
33. The Cactus Blossoms: “Stoplight Kisses”
The Cactus Blossoms, a contemporary band with a vintage rockabilly sound, offer “Stoplight Kisses.” This upbeat song, with its jangly feel, is perfect for parties and social gatherings. It uses just four chords (E, A, B7, and E7) and is easy to learn, bringing a retro vibe to your beginner guitar repertoire.
Learn how to play “Stoplight Kisses” here.
34. Traditional: “I Shall Not Be Moved”
“I Shall Not Be Moved,” a traditional song popularized by bluesman Mississippi John Hurt, is a lesson in simple yet effective songwriting. Covered by artists like Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley, this song blends folk, blues, and country elements. It features three basic chords and syncopated rhythms, offering a deeper dive into rhythm and timing for beginners.
Learn how to play “I Shall Not Be Moved” here.
More Easy Guitar Songs to Explore
This final section offers a diverse mix of songs that are still beginner-friendly but span various genres and styles. These songs provide further opportunities to expand your skills and musical taste as a beginner guitarist.
13. The Animals: “It’s My Life”
“It’s My Life” by The Animals, originally released in 1965, is an anthem of individuality. Written by Brill Building songwriters Roger Atkins and Carl D’Errico, this song aligns with other socially conscious rock songs of the era from artists like The Beatles and Bob Dylan. Learning “It’s My Life” introduces beginners to classic 60s rock with a meaningful message.
Learn how to play “It’s My Life” here.
18. Billie Eilish: “Ocean Eyes”
Billie Eilish’s debut song, “ocean eyes,” released on SoundCloud in 2015, launched her into stardom. Written by her brother Finneas O’Connell, this hit paved the way for her Grammy success. Learning “ocean eyes” allows beginners to play a contemporary pop hit with a unique, atmospheric sound.
Learn how to play “Ocean Eyes” here.
25. Bonnie Raitt: “Something to Talk About”
Bonnie Raitt, known for her blues slide guitar and vocals, was Fender’s first female signature artist. “Something to Talk About,” from her Grammy-winning albums Nick of Time and Luck of the Draw, remains a popular hit. Learning this song introduces beginners to blues-infused pop-rock with a strong female artist at its core.
Learn how to play “Something to Talk About” here.
32. The Beatles: “Here Comes the Sun”
“Here Comes the Sun,” written by George Harrison and featured on The Beatles’ Abbey Road, is a universally loved song. Alongside “Something” and “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” it’s one of Harrison’s most famous Beatles compositions. Its uplifting melody and accessible chords make it a rewarding song for beginners to learn from the Beatles’ catalog.
Learn how to play “Here Comes The Sun” here.
37. Traditional: “Amazing Grace”
“Amazing Grace,” a hymn over 200 years old, continues to be deeply moving. This simplified guitar version focuses on fingerpicking in 3/4 time using chords A, A7, D, and E7. Learning “Amazing Grace” introduces beginners to fingerpicking and playing in 3/4 time, expanding their guitar techniques with a classic and spiritual song.
Learn how to play “Amazing Grace” here.
38. Santana: “Oye Como Va”
“Oye Como Va,” written by Tito Puente in 1963 and popularized by Santana, is a Latin rock classic. Santana’s rendition brought this Latin jazz and mambo tune to a wider audience. Learning “Oye Como Va” introduces beginners to Latin rhythms and grooves on the guitar, broadening their musical horizons.
Learn how to play “Oye Como Va” here.
40. Kris Kristofferson: “Me and Bobby McGee”
“Me and Bobby McGee,” written by Kris Kristofferson, was first released by Roger Miller in 1969 but became a massive hit with Janis Joplin’s version in 1971. Joplin recorded her iconic vocals just days before her passing, adding to the song’s poignant history. Learning “Me and Bobby McGee” allows beginners to play a country-folk classic with a story and emotional depth.
Learn how to play “Me and Bobby McGee” here.
Ready to Learn More Easy Songs on Guitar?
This list of 40 easy songs is just the beginning. If you’re eager to unlock hundreds more songs and develop your guitar skills further, Fender Play is your ultimate resource.
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Explore even more easy songs by genre with these links: Easy Pop Songs | Easy Folk Songs | Easy Rock Songs | Easy Blues Songs | Easy Country Songs | Easy Songs for Electric Guitar | Easy Songs for Acoustic Guitar | Easy Ukulele Songs | Easy Bass Songs
