Starting your electric guitar journey is incredibly exciting. Unlike acoustic guitars, electric guitars often boast thinner strings and necks, making them physically easier on beginners’ fingers and hands. If you’re eager to jump in and play some tunes right away, you might be wondering which songs are achievable early on. The good news is, plenty of fantastic songs are perfect for beginners on electric guitar.
To get you started and keep you motivated, we’ve compiled a list of 10 simple songs that sound amazing on electric guitar. These tracks span genres and eras, giving you a diverse and fun introduction to playing. Let’s plug in and get started!
Top Easy Electric Guitar Songs to Learn Now
Smashing Pumpkins: “Cherub Rock”
Billy Corgan’s songwriting brilliance shines in “Cherub Rock,” a 1993 hit from Smashing Pumpkins. This song from the Siamese Dream album is built on a driving rhythm guitar part, making it excellent practice for octave riffs and 16th note strumming. Fender Play instructor Matt Lake can guide you through the techniques in detail, making this hard rock tune surprisingly accessible for beginners.
Blue Öyster Cult: “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper”
“(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” by Blue Öyster Cult, released in 1976, is a classic that will help you develop essential guitar skills. This song is perfect for practicing arpeggio picking and palm muting. Its haunting melody and iconic status make learning it even more rewarding. Rolling Stone recognized its impact by naming it song of the year in its release year.
Willie Dixon: “I Can’t Quit You Baby”
“I Can’t Quit You Baby,” penned by blues legend Willie Dixon, is a blues standard that’s been covered by many artists, including Led Zeppelin. This song is based on a simple three-chord progression (G, C, and D), making it a fantastic entry point into blues guitar. Fender Play instructor Barrett Wilson breaks down the song, making it easy to grasp the blues feel and chord changes.
Black Uhuru: “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner”
Expand your rhythmic horizons with Black Uhuru’s reggae classic, “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.” This groovy and hypnotic song is driven by a classic reggae backbeat. Fender Play instructor Jen Trani will guide you through this rhythm, helping you develop your reggae guitar skills and timing.
Elmore James: “It Hurts Me Too”
Elmore James’ “It Hurts Me Too” is a blues gem with traditional chord changes that are perfect for learning. This song is an excellent way to get acquainted with the blues shuffle pattern and downstrumming. Learning this track opens the door to a deeper appreciation of blues guitar.
The Strokes: “Last Nite”
The Strokes revitalized punk and garage rock in the early 2000s with “Last Nite,” their infectious debut single. This upbeat song reached the top charts and is a blast to play on guitar. The lessons focus on chord anticipation and 16th note strumming patterns, essential techniques for any aspiring guitarist.
The Cars: “My Best Friend’s Girl”
“My Best Friend’s Girl” by The Cars seamlessly blends hard rock guitar with new wave synth-pop, resulting in a massive hit. This song features an easy three-chord progression, making it very beginner-friendly. Fender Play instructor Matt Lake will walk you through it, bringing you back to the 80s with a fun and simple song.
Cracker: “Low”
Cracker’s 1993 hit “Low” is built around just four chords (D, C, E, and G). This song is ideal for practicing basic chord switching and maintaining a consistent strum pattern. Fender Play instructor Jen Trani simplifies the song, helping you smoothly transition between chords.
Robert Cray: “Smoking Gun”
Robert Cray, a master of the Stratocaster, scored a pop radio hit with “Smoking Gun.” Reaching No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100, this song utilizes E minor and A minor chords. Fender Play instructor Akira Harrison demonstrates basic techniques using this blues jam, perfect for building your foundational skills.
The Rolling Stones: “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction”
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones features arguably the most recognizable guitar riff ever, crafted by Keith Richards. This iconic track embodies the Stones’ rock-meets-soul style. Learning this riff is a rite of passage for any electric guitarist and a fantastic confidence booster.
These ten songs are just the beginning. With resources like Fender Play, you can unlock even more songs and guitar skills to continue your musical journey. So grab your electric guitar, pick a song, and start playing! You’ll be surprised how quickly you can learn these easy songs and begin to experience the joy of playing electric guitar.
