Starting your guitar journey is an exciting adventure, filled with the promise of musical expression and the joy of playing your favorite tunes. However, the sheer number of chords, techniques, and songs out there can feel overwhelming for a beginner. The good news is that learning to play guitar doesn’t have to be a daunting task. One of the most rewarding and effective ways to kickstart your musical journey is by learning Easy Songs To Play On Guitar. There’s no better feeling than strumming along to a familiar melody, and it’s a fantastic way to build confidence and develop essential guitar skills.
This curated list of 40 easy songs to play on guitar is specifically designed for beginners. These songs feature simple chord progressions, manageable strumming patterns, and are incredibly popular and recognizable. Whether you’re picking up an acoustic or electric guitar, these tunes will provide a solid foundation and keep you motivated as you learn. And for those looking for structured guidance, Fender Play offers comprehensive lessons to help you master these songs and many more. So, grab your guitar and get ready to play – your musical journey starts now with these easy songs to play on guitar.
1. J Mascis: “Feel The Pain”
Inspired by the heavy riffs of Black Sabbath, J Mascis and Dinosaur Jr. crafted a unique sound blending punk energy with classic rock vibes. “Feel The Pain” is a great entry point into their catalog, offering a moderately paced tempo and chord progression that’s manageable for beginners. This song is excellent for practicing power chords and developing a feel for alternative rock rhythms.
Learn how to play “Feel The Pain” here.
2. Oasis: “Wonderwall”
“Wonderwall” is an iconic anthem from Oasis’s 1995 album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?. This song became a global phenomenon, defining a generation of British rock. Its enduring popularity stems from its catchy melody and, importantly for beginners, its straightforward chord structure. “Wonderwall” primarily uses just a few basic chords, making it an ideal song to practice smooth chord transitions and consistent strumming. Learning this song will not only impress your friends but also build essential foundational guitar skills.
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 timeless rebel song that has resonated through generations, even covered by punk legends The Clash. Despite its rebellious spirit, the Bobby Fuller Four’s version is remarkably accessible for beginner guitarists. Matt Lake from Fender Play simplifies it into a campfire-friendly strummer, emphasizing steady rhythm and basic chords. This song is perfect for developing your strumming hand technique and learning to keep a consistent beat while changing chords.
Learn how to play “I Fought the Law” here.
4. Carrie Underwood: “Blown Away”
Carrie Underwood is often hailed as the modern “Queen of Country,” and “Blown Away” exemplifies her knack for crafting compelling country anthems. This Grammy-winning track reached the top of the Billboard Country charts and features a simple yet effective chord progression. For beginners, “Blown Away” is fantastic because it relies on a repeating chord sequence, allowing you to focus on mastering a single progression and building stamina while playing.
Learn how to play “Blown Away” here.
5. Lukas Graham: “7 Years”
Danish pop band Lukas Graham achieved international success with “7 Years,” a poignant and relatable song that topped charts worldwide and garnered multiple Grammy nominations. Beyond its emotional depth, “7 Years” is also a surprisingly easy song to play on guitar for beginners. Its chord structure is based on common and simple chords, making it a great choice for practicing finger placement and smooth transitions between chords. This song is excellent for developing your chord vocabulary and playing along to a popular contemporary hit.
Learn how to play “7 Years” here.
6. Brad Paisley: “He Didn’t Have to Be”
Brad Paisley, a master of the Telecaster, is a defining voice in modern country music. “He Didn’t Have to Be,” his first No. 1 hit, showcases his songwriting talent and is also remarkably beginner-friendly. This easygoing ballad is perfect for refining your strumming hand technique, particularly for achieving a smooth and even rhythm. The song’s gentle pace and clear chord changes make it an excellent practice piece for beginners looking to improve their strumming and chord transition skills.
Learn how to play “He Didn’t Have to Be” here.
7. The Rolling Stones: “Honky Tonk Women”
“Honky Tonk Women” by The Rolling Stones is a classic that blends hard rock energy with country swagger. This chart-topping hit is built around the versatile G chord, making it surprisingly accessible for beginner guitarists. You’ll learn the iconic intro riff, verse, and chorus in Fender Play lessons, focusing on rhythm and chord changes. This song is a fantastic way to learn a foundational rock riff and practice playing in the key of G.
Learn how to play “Honky Tonk Women” here.
8. Jimi Hendrix: “Purple Haze”
“Purple Haze” is a groundbreaking track by Jimi Hendrix that introduced many to his signature psychedelic rock sound. While Hendrix is known for his virtuosic playing, the basic structure of “Purple Haze” is achievable for beginners, especially in simplified versions offered by Fender Play. Learning a simplified version of “Purple Haze” can be a thrilling experience for beginners, introducing them to iconic rock riffs and power chords in a manageable way.
Learn how to play “Purple Haze” here.
9. Joni Mitchell: “Big Yellow Taxi”
Joni Mitchell’s “Big Yellow Taxi,” from her acclaimed album Ladies of the Canyon, is a beloved folk-pop song with an important environmental message. Written after a trip to Hawaii, the song is both catchy and thought-provoking. For guitar beginners, “Big Yellow Taxi” is a great choice due to its fingerpicking pattern and relatively simple chord progression. It’s an excellent song for practicing fingerstyle guitar and developing independence between your thumb and fingers.
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 classic inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Fender Play instructor Nikki Stevens breaks down this song into an accessible lesson, allowing beginners to start with simple down strums and progress to more percussive rhythms. Using just three chords – E, A, and D major – “Not Fade Away” is perfect for practicing strumming patterns and getting comfortable with basic chord shapes.
Learn how to play “Not Fade Away.”
11. The National: “I Need My Girl”
The National’s “I Need My Girl,” released in 2013, showcases their signature melancholic beauty. Jen Trani from Fender Play simplifies this song to just four chords: A minor, C, F, and G. Using a capo further simplifies the song, making it exceptionally beginner-friendly. “I Need My Girl” is ideal for practicing barre chords (with the capo simplifying them) and learning to play emotionally expressive songs with a relatively simple chord structure.
Learn how to play “I Need My Girl” here.
12. Leonard Cohen: “Hallelujah”
Leonard Cohen, a celebrated songwriter and poet, is best known for his profoundly moving anthem “Hallelujah.” Famously covered by Jeff Buckley, “Hallelujah” is a song of immense beauty and emotional depth. While it might sound complex, the chord progression is surprisingly accessible for beginners, particularly with Fender Play’s guidance. Learning “Hallelujah” allows beginners to tackle a song with a wider chord vocabulary and practice fingerpicking or strumming patterns in a ballad style.
Learn how to play “Hallelujah” here.
13. The Animals: “It’s My Life”
“It’s My Life” by The Animals, originally released in 1965, is a powerful rock anthem with a message of personal freedom. This song, penned by Brill Building songwriters Roger Atkins and Carl D’Errico, is not only impactful but also beginner-friendly on the guitar. “It’s My Life” is great for practicing power chords and developing a strong, driving strumming rhythm typical of 60s rock music.
Learn how to play “It’s My Life” here.
14. Grace VanderWaal: “Clay”
Grace VanderWaal, a ukulele prodigy, showcases her songwriting talent in “Clay,” a metaphorical song about overcoming bullying. Featured on her debut album Perfectly Imperfect, this heartfelt ballad uses just four easy open position chords: G, E minor, D, and C. “Clay” is an excellent choice for beginners to practice open chords and learn to play a contemporary pop ballad with a meaningful message.
Learn how to play “Clay” here.
15. Delta Spirit: “California”
“California” marked a breakthrough for indie rockers Delta Spirit in 2012, gaining them significant radio airplay. This catchy track blends indie pop with roots-rock elements and is driven by an engaging alternate strumming pattern. Fender Play instructor Jen Trani simplifies “California” to just four chords: A minor, C, G, and D. This song is perfect for practicing alternate strumming techniques and learning to play indie rock rhythms.
Learn how to play “California” here.
16. The Isley Brothers: “Shout”
“Shout” by The Isley Brothers, while only reaching No. 47 on the Billboard Hot 100 initially, became a gold-selling single due to its enduring popularity and longevity. This energetic song is a staple at sporting events and parties, instantly recognizable and infectious. “Shout” is fantastic for beginners to practice dynamic strumming and learn a song that’s guaranteed to get people moving.
Learn how to play “Shout” here.
17. Creedence Clearwater Revival: “Bad Moon Rising”
Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Bad Moon Rising” is a classic example of how upbeat music can convey darker themes. With its cheerful tempo and steady, basic strumming, this timeless rock tune is incredibly accessible to beginners. “Bad Moon Rising” is an ideal starting point for learning basic chords like D, A, and G, and practicing smooth chord switching. It’s a foundational rock song that every beginner guitarist should learn.
Learn how to play “Bad Moon Rising” here.
18. Billie Eilish: “Ocean Eyes”
“ocean eyes,” Billie Eilish’s debut song originally released on SoundCloud in 2015, launched her extraordinary career. Written by her brother Finneas O’Connell, this hit song propelled her to Grammy stardom at a young age. “Ocean Eyes” offers a contemporary pop sound that’s also beginner-friendly on guitar. Its atmospheric and melodic structure makes it a great song for practicing arpeggios and fingerpicking patterns, alongside basic chords.
Learn how to play “Ocean Eyes” here.
19. Andra Day: “Rise Up”
Andra Day’s “Rise Up,” a platinum-selling single from her debut album Cheers to the Fall, is an empowering and soulful anthem. Released in 2015, the song’s message of resilience resonated widely. “Rise Up” is a beautiful and easy song to play on guitar, particularly for beginners looking to play soulful music. Its chord progression is relatively simple, allowing you to focus on dynamics and expressing emotion through your playing.
Learn how to play “Rise Up” here.
20. Willie Dixon: “I Can’t Quit You Baby”
Willie Dixon, a blues legend, penned “I Can’t Quit You Baby,” a blues classic first recorded by Otis Rush in 1956. Led Zeppelin famously covered it on their debut album in 1969, bringing it to a wider rock audience. This blues standard uses just three basic chords: G, C, and D. “I Can’t Quit You Baby” is a fantastic introduction to blues guitar, teaching beginners essential blues chords and a classic 12-bar blues structure.
Learn how to play “I Can’t Quit You Baby” here.
21. Butch Walker: “Chrissie Hynde”
Butch Walker, a versatile folk-pop singer-songwriter, released “Chrissie Hynde” in 2014 on his album Afraid of Ghosts. This country-tinged ballad expresses a desire for escape and introspection, referencing The Pretenders as a source of comfort. “Chrissie Hynde” is a gently paced song that’s easy to play on guitar, ideal for beginners wanting to learn folk and Americana styles. It’s great for practicing fingerpicking patterns and playing with a softer dynamic.
Learn how to play “Chrissie Hynde here.
22. Frankie Ballard: “Helluva Life”
Frankie Ballard’s country hit “Helluva Life,” released in 2013, is an upbeat anthem about gratitude and appreciating life’s simple pleasures. Certified Gold, “Helluva Life” is one of Ballard’s most popular tracks and is also beginner-friendly on guitar. This song is excellent for practicing major chords and maintaining a cheerful, upbeat strumming rhythm typical of modern country music.
Learn how to play “Helluva Life” here.
23. Carl Perkins: “Matchbox”
Carl Perkins’ rockabilly classic “Matchbox,” originally recorded in 1956, is a timeless tune that even The Beatles covered. Requiring only three chords – A, D, and E – “Matchbox” is perfect for beginners to practice alternate strumming and solidify their rhythm playing. This song is a cornerstone of rock and roll and a fun way to develop essential rhythmic guitar skills.
Learn how to play “Matchbox”.
24. Elmore James: “It Hurts Me Too”
“It Hurts Me Too” is a blues standard that was first recorded in 1940 by Tampa Red, but Elmore James’ version brought the song to wider recognition with his distinctive slide guitar style and added lyrics. This blues classic, especially in simplified guitar arrangements, is easy to play on guitar using just three chords with variations (A5, A6, D5, D6, E5, and E6). “It Hurts Me Too” is a fantastic entry point to blues guitar, introducing beginners to blues chord variations and a slower blues tempo.
Learn how to play “It Hurts Me Too” here.
25. Bonnie Raitt: “Something to Talk About”
Bonnie Raitt, renowned for her bluesy slide guitar and soulful vocals, is a Fender signature artist. “Something to Talk About,” a Grammy-winning single from her commercially successful albums in the early 90s, remains a fan favorite. This song is surprisingly easy to play on guitar, focusing on rhythm and blues-rock chord progressions. It’s a great way for beginners to explore blues-infused rock and practice playing with feeling.
Learn how to play “Something to Talk About” here.
26. Muddy Waters: “Mannish Boy”
Muddy Waters’ “Mannish Boy,” recorded in 1955, is a quintessential blues track with a powerful and iconic blues riff that drives the entire song. Reaching No. 5 on the Billboard R&B chart, “Mannish Boy” is a foundational blues song. Learning a simplified guitar version of “Mannish Boy” allows beginners to tackle a classic blues riff and practice playing with a strong rhythmic groove.
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,” a New Orleans blues hit from 1953, features a simple, repeating chord progression that uses only three chords: E, A, and B7. Staying at No. 1 on the R&B charts for six weeks, this song is a blues standard. “Things That I Used to Do” is an excellent song for beginners to master a common blues chord progression and practice playing a full song with just a few chord changes.
Learn how to play “Things That I Used to Do” here.
28. The Smithereens: “Blood & Roses”
The Smithereens’ “Blood & Roses,” the first single from their debut album Especially For You, is a power-pop gem. Fender Play instructor Barrett Wilson guides you through this classic, which uses five chords: E minor, G, C, D, and A minor. “Blood & Roses” is ideal for practicing pivot fingers during chord changes and developing 8th note alternate strumming. It’s a great song to learn slightly more complex chord changes while still remaining beginner-friendly.
Learn how to play “Blood & Roses” here.
29. Cracker: “Low”
Cracker’s “Low,” a 1993 hit that reached No. 3 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart, is built around just four chords: D, C, E, and G. This alternative rock classic is known for its catchy melody and straightforward structure. “Low” is perfect for beginners to dive into basic chord switching and practice playing with a consistent strum pattern in an alternative rock style.
Learn how to play “Low” here.
30. ZZ Top: “Tush”
ZZ Top’s “Tush,” from their album Fandango!, is a blues-rock anthem that VH1 named one of the greatest hard rock songs of all time. Inspired by John Lee Hooker’s boogie rhythm, “Tush” is a 12-bar blues rocker. Fender Play instructor Scott Goldbaum simplifies it to a campfire version using a three-chord rhythm progression: D, G, and C. “Tush” is a fantastic way to learn a simplified 12-bar blues structure and practice power chords in a hard rock context.
Learn how to play “Tush” here.
31. Hank Williams: “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)”
Hank Williams, a pioneer of country music, defined country guitar playing with his single-note picking techniques. “Jambalaya (On the Bayou),” a No. 1 Billboard Hot Country single, showcases his songwriting and simple song structures. Using just two chords, this catchy tune is a country favorite and incredibly easy to play on guitar. “Jambalaya” is ideal for beginners to practice simple chord changes and learn a foundational country song with a singalong melody.
Learn how to play “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)” here.
32. The Beatles: “Here Comes the Sun”
“Here Comes the Sun,” written by George Harrison and featured on The Beatles’ iconic Abbey Road album, is a song of hope and optimism. Alongside “Something” and “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” it’s one of Harrison’s most beloved compositions from the Beatles era. While the original includes some more complex chords, simplified versions of “Here Comes the Sun” are accessible to beginners, especially with Fender Play’s lessons. Learning a simplified “Here Comes the Sun” introduces beginners to fingerpicking patterns and beautiful melodies within a manageable chord structure.
Learn how to play “Here Comes The Sun” here.
33. The Cactus Blossoms: “Stoplight Kisses”
The Cactus Blossoms, a contemporary band with a vintage rockabilly sound, deliver upbeat and catchy tunes like “Stoplight Kisses.” Its jangly and cheerful vibe makes it perfect for parties, and it’s playable with only four chords: E, A, B7, and E7. “Stoplight Kisses” is a fun song for beginners to practice 7th chords and learn a modern song with a classic rock and roll feel.
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 songwriting simplicity and effective use of basic chords. Covered by Johnny Cash, Son House, and Elvis Presley, this song spans folk, blues, and country genres. Using three basic chords and syncopated rhythms, “I Shall Not Be Moved” is excellent for practicing syncopated strumming and learning a traditional song with historical significance.
Learn how to play “I Shall Not Be Moved” here.
35. Paolo Nutini: “Candy”
Paolo Nutini’s “Candy,” a worldwide hit in 2009, brought a fresh neo-soul sound to the charts and is arguably his most recognized song. Fender Play instructor Scott Goldbaum offers a folky spin on “Candy,” unlocking this Sunny Side Up single with alternate and syncopated strumming. “Candy” is a great song for beginners to explore syncopated strumming patterns and learn a modern soul-pop song with a folky twist.
Learn how to play “Candy” here.
36. Blue Öyster Cult: “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper”
Blue Öyster Cult’s “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper,” released in 1976, is their highest-charting single. With its haunting melody and lyrics about mortality, the song has an eerie yet captivating quality. Despite its darker themes, “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” is musically accessible, especially in simplified guitar arrangements. Learning a simplified version of “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” can introduce beginners to arpeggiated patterns and minor chords in a classic rock context.
Learn how to play “Don’t Fear the Reaper” here.
37. Traditional: “Amazing Grace”
“Amazing Grace,” a hymn over 200 years old, remains deeply moving and universally recognized. This simplified guitar version focuses on fingerpicking in 3/4 time using the chords A, A7, D, and E7. “Amazing Grace” is a beautiful and easy song to play on guitar for beginners wanting to learn fingerpicking and play a classic hymn. It’s excellent for developing fingerstyle technique and playing in 3/4 time.
Learn how to play “Amazing Grace” here.
38. Santana: “Oye Como Va”
“Oye Como Va,” written by Latin jazz and mambo musician Tito Puente in 1963, was popularized by Santana’s rendition. Santana’s version brought this vibrant Latin rock song to a global audience. While the full arrangement features complex instrumentation, simplified guitar versions of “Oye Como Va” are approachable for beginners, particularly focusing on rhythm guitar parts and basic chords. Learning “Oye Como Va” introduces beginners to Latin rhythms and playing in a different musical style.
Learn how to play “Oye Como Va” here.
39. John Legend: “All of Me”
John Legend’s piano-driven ballad “All of Me” translates beautifully to the guitar, as demonstrated in Fender Play lessons. The intro and verse use beautiful open chords: E minor, C, G, and D, with A minor added in the pre-chorus and chorus. “All of Me” is a contemporary ballad that’s easy to play on guitar, perfect for beginners wanting to learn a popular love song. It’s great for practicing open chords and playing expressively.
Learn how to play “All of Me” 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 Janis Joplin’s iconic version topped the U.S. charts in 1971. Joplin recorded her vocals just days before her passing, making her rendition even more poignant. “Me and Bobby McGee” is a timeless classic that’s also beginner-friendly on guitar, especially in simplified arrangements. Learning this song allows beginners to play a well-known classic and practice chord changes in a folk-rock style.
Learn how to play “Me and Bobby McGee” here.
If you’re eager to explore hundreds more songs and develop your guitar skills further, click here to discover a vast library of songs and here to enhance your techniques with structured lessons on Fender Play. Ready to take the next step? Get your free trial of Fender Play here and unlock your full musical potential today!
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