Unplugging from the electric world and embracing the acoustic guitar can be a transformative experience for any musician. While electric guitars offer a safety net of distortion and effects, acoustic playing demands precision, clarity, and often, highlights the raw beauty of songwriting. Acoustic arrangements can breathe new life into well-known tunes, provide a fresh perspective on covers, and truly showcase the essence of a perfectly crafted song. Whether you’re drawn to original compositions, inventive covers, or reimagined versions, these 30 acoustic songs, chosen by guitar enthusiasts, are sure to inspire and ignite your passion for playing. Prepare to be captivated and motivated to learn these timeless pieces.
30. Queen – Love Of My Life
A masterclass in vocal and guitar intimacy, Queen’s “Love Of My Life” stands as a testament to the power of simplicity. Freddie Mercury’s vocal performance is raw and emotionally charged, perfectly complemented by Brian May’s majestic acoustic guitar work. May’s playing is not just accompaniment; it’s a melodic conversation, enhancing the song’s vulnerability and hope. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its stripped-down arrangement, proving that sometimes, less is truly more, especially when showcasing exceptional songwriting and performance.
29. The Smiths – Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want
Is there a more melancholic Smiths song? “Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want” encapsulates Morrissey’s signature poignant vocals and Johnny Marr’s understated guitar arrangement. Marr’s playing is deliberately restrained, mirroring the song’s wistful and yearning mood. The acoustic version emphasizes the song’s inherent sadness and beauty, making it a perfect example of how acoustic arrangements can amplify the emotional core of a song. Its brevity and bittersweet melody make it a captivating study in minimalist songwriting.
28. John Lennon – Working Class Hero
John Lennon, stripped down to just an acoustic guitar and his voice, delivers a powerful and raw performance in “Working Class Hero.” This version of Lennon, channeling Dylan with three chords and an acoustic, arguably presents the most potent post-Beatles Lennon. The song is a scathing social commentary, delivered with biting vocals and stark acoustic guitar work. The simplicity of the arrangement highlights the directness of Lennon’s message and the enduring relevance of his observations on class and society.
27. Don McLean – American Pie
Forget any cover versions; Don McLean’s original acoustic rendition of “American Pie” remains the definitive version. This epic track is a journey through storytelling, set to McLean’s distinctive acoustic guitar style. The song’s lyrical depth has been endlessly debated, but the acoustic arrangement provides the perfect backdrop for its narrative complexity. McLean’s fingerpicking and strumming patterns are integral to the song’s identity, making it a rewarding piece for acoustic guitarists to learn and interpret.
26. Nick Drake – Pink Moon
The enigmatic Nick Drake’s “Pink Moon” is inseparable from the mystique surrounding his life and music. This song is a showcase of Drake’s unique guitar style, characterized by ear-catching chord progressions, distinctive tunings, and haunting melodies. “Pink Moon” exemplifies Drake’s ability to create captivating soundscapes with just his voice and acoustic guitar. For guitarists, it’s a study in alternative tunings and creating atmosphere through subtle yet intricate playing.
25. Fleetwood Mac – Landslide
“Landslide” is a Fleetwood Mac staple, deeply personal to Stevie Nicks and reflective of her complex relationship with Lindsey Buckingham. Buckingham’s acoustic guitar work is central to the song, featuring delicate fingerpicked layers that underscore the song’s emotional vulnerability. The interplay between Nicks’ vocals and Buckingham’s intricate guitar parts creates a powerful and intimate listening experience. Learning “Landslide” offers guitarists a chance to explore fingerpicking techniques and understand how to create a supportive and evocative acoustic accompaniment.
24. Alice In Chains – Down In A Hole (Unplugged)
From their iconic 1996 MTV Unplugged session, Alice In Chains’ acoustic rendition of “Down In A Hole” is grunge at its most vulnerable. Stripped down, the song’s emotional weight is amplified by the fingerpicked minor chords and Layne Staley and Jerry Cantrell’s intertwined, powerful vocals. This acoustic version reveals the depth and tenderness within grunge, demonstrating the genre’s versatility beyond electric distortion. Guitarists can learn from the song’s use of dynamics and harmonic minor progressions to create a deeply moving acoustic performance.
23. Bob Dylan – The Times They Are A-Changin’
Arguably the quintessential protest song, Bob Dylan’s “The Times They Are A-Changin'” is timeless in its message and musicality. Dylan’s Celtic-influenced strumming pattern and simple yet effective chord progression are instantly recognizable and deeply engaging. The song’s power lies in its lyrical content and the driving rhythm of Dylan’s acoustic guitar. It’s a foundational song for any aspiring folk or acoustic guitarist, teaching essential strumming techniques and the art of conveying powerful messages through music.
22. Stevie Ray Vaughan – Life By The Drop
A rare acoustic gem from blues guitar icon Stevie Ray Vaughan, “Life By The Drop” features SRV on a 12-string acoustic guitar, creating a shimmering blues shuffle. Though penned by Doyle Bramhall and Barbara Logan, Vaughan’s soulful vocals and distinctive guitar embellishments make this song unmistakably his own. This track showcases Vaughan’s versatility and demonstrates that his blues sensibilities translate beautifully to the acoustic realm. Guitarists can study his 12-string techniques and learn how to infuse blues feeling into acoustic playing.
21. The Rolling Stones – Wild Horses
“Wild Horses” is a Rolling Stones classic that takes on a different dimension in its acoustic form. Mick Taylor’s use of Nashville tuning on the original recording contributes to its unique, shimmering acoustic texture. The song’s beauty lies in its blend of Keith Richards’ and Taylor’s guitar parts, creating a rich and layered acoustic sound. Learning “Wild Horses” can introduce guitarists to alternate tunings and the intricacies of arranging acoustic guitar parts in a band setting.
20. Foo Fighters – Everlong (acoustic)
“Everlong,” originally a high-energy electric track, found a new life as an impromptu acoustic performance by Dave Grohl. This solo acoustic version, born from a radio performance, highlights the song’s strong melodic core and Grohl’s passionate vocal delivery. The acoustic arrangement emphasizes the song’s emotional yearning, proving its strength beyond the electric instrumentation. Grohl’s urgent strumming style in the acoustic version is both powerful and emotive, offering a great study for dynamic acoustic rhythm playing.
19. Oasis – Wonderwall
“Wonderwall” by Oasis has become an anthem for beginner acoustic guitarists worldwide. Noel Gallagher’s simple four-chord progression has launched countless guitar journeys. This defining Britpop track, unplugged, showcases the power of simple songwriting and catchy melodies. Despite its ubiquity, “Wonderwall” remains a beloved song for its singalong quality and easy-to-learn guitar chords, making it a perfect entry point into acoustic guitar playing.
18. John Martyn – May You Never
John Martyn’s “May You Never” is a poignant and heartfelt song, delivered with Martyn’s signature world-weary vocal style and intricate guitar work. Martyn’s complex fingerpicking and emotional depth are central to the song’s appeal. “May You Never” is a masterclass in expressing vulnerability and wisdom through acoustic music. Guitarists can learn from Martyn’s unique fingerstyle techniques and his ability to convey deep emotion through his playing.
17. Kansas – Dust In The Wind
“Dust In The Wind” by Kansas started as a guitar fingerpicking exercise and evolved into a prog-folk masterpiece. The song’s ethereal sound, often mistaken for a 12-string, is actually created by layering standard and Nashville-tuned acoustic guitars. The delicate fingerpicking and philosophical lyrics contribute to its enduring appeal. For guitarists, “Dust In The Wind” offers a chance to explore fingerpicking patterns and understand how layered acoustic guitars can create rich textures.
16. Eric Clapton – Layla (Unplugged)
Eric Clapton’s “Layla” Unplugged version, born from a period of personal tragedy, became a career highlight. This rearranged, stripped-down acoustic take on his classic rock anthem showcases the song’s songwriting brilliance in a new light. The acoustic “Layla” is a testament to how a song can be reimagined and still retain its power and emotional impact. Guitarists can learn from Clapton’s acoustic arrangement and his ability to transform an electric rock song into an intimate acoustic piece.
15. Radiohead – Fake Plastic Trees
Radiohead’s “Fake Plastic Trees” begins as a beautifully delicate acoustic song before building into a more expansive sound. However, it’s the acoustic core that makes it endlessly rewarding to play solo. Thom Yorke’s emotive vocals and the song’s underlying melody are perfectly showcased in its acoustic form. “Fake Plastic Trees” is a great song for acoustic guitarists to learn for its dynamic range and the opportunity to practice playing both gentle and more intense passages.
14. Led Zeppelin – Going To California
Led Zeppelin’s “Going To California” is a gentle and wistful acoustic track, showcasing Jimmy Page’s masterful acoustic guitar skills. The song features open tunings, mandolin, and a restrained Robert Plant vocal, creating a unique and charming Zeppelin sound. “Going To California” is a great example of Led Zeppelin’s acoustic side and Page’s versatility as a guitarist. Learning this song introduces guitarists to open tunings and the art of creating texture with acoustic instruments.
13. James Taylor – Fire And Rain
James Taylor, a master acoustic storyteller, uses “Fire And Rain” to explore personal loss and struggles. The song is a cathartic expression of grief and resilience, set to Taylor’s signature fingerstyle acoustic guitar playing. “Fire And Rain” is a deeply personal and moving song, showcasing Taylor’s exceptional songwriting and guitar skills. Guitarists can study his fingerpicking techniques and learn how to convey emotional depth through acoustic guitar.
12. Neil Young – Heart Of Gold
Neil Young’s biggest hit, “Heart Of Gold,” emerged from a period when a back injury led him to favor acoustic guitars. This gentle folk-rock song, with its distinctive harmonica breaks, became a massive success. “Heart Of Gold” is a classic example of Neil Young’s folk-influenced acoustic style and his ability to craft simple yet memorable songs. It’s a great song for beginner to intermediate acoustic guitarists to learn, focusing on strumming patterns and harmonica accompaniment (optional).
11. Extreme – More Than Words
“More Than Words” by Extreme is a power ballad stripped down to its acoustic essence. Despite its simplicity and sweetness, it’s undeniably catchy and enduringly popular. This song showcases Extreme’s unexpected versatility beyond their hard rock image. “More Than Words” is a popular choice for acoustic performances and a good song for practicing fingerstyle and vocal harmonies, despite its potentially divisive “sweetness.”
10. Simon And Garfunkel – The Boxer
Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Boxer” is known for its glistening, cascading guitar lines, which belie a complex recording process. Paul Simon and session guitarist Fred Carter Jr. spent over 100 hours in the studio perfecting the intricate fingerpicked guitar parts. “The Boxer” builds from a gentle folk ballad to a powerful and dramatic conclusion. It’s a challenging but rewarding song for acoustic guitarists to learn, offering a deep dive into fingerpicking techniques and dynamic song structure.
9. Bob Marley – Redemption Song
“Redemption Song” is an anomaly in Bob Marley’s reggae catalog – a purely acoustic ballad featuring just Marley on vocals and guitar. Lyrically powerful and politically charged, the song is also deeply personal, reflecting on Marley’s mortality. “Redemption Song” is a testament to the strength of Marley’s songwriting and his ability to convey profound messages with minimal instrumentation. Guitarists can learn from the song’s simple yet effective acoustic arrangement and its powerful message.
8. Neil Young – Needle And The Damage Done
“Needle And The Damage Done” is a cornerstone in the lineage of acoustic songs addressing the perils of drug abuse. Neil Young wrote this poignant song after witnessing the heroin addiction of his bandmate Danny Whitten. The recorded version, from “Harvest,” is a live performance, adding to its raw and immediate emotional impact. “Needle And The Damage Done” is a stark and moving acoustic ballad, offering a powerful example of using music to address difficult and important issues.
7. Johnny Cash – Hurt
Johnny Cash’s cover of Nine Inch Nails’ “Hurt” is a definitive example of an artist making a song entirely his own. Cash’s aged and fragile vocals, combined with Rick Rubin’s minimalist arrangement, give “Hurt” immense power and poignancy. This cover became a career-defining moment for Cash, showcasing his enduring artistry and ability to connect with deeply emotional material. Guitarists can appreciate the song’s simple acoustic arrangement and the impact of dynamics and emotional delivery.
6. Eric Clapton – Tears In Heaven
“Tears In Heaven” is a deeply personal song for Eric Clapton, born from tragic circumstances. Its instant iconic status and widespread popularity speak to its universal themes of grief and loss. The acoustic versions, particularly the Unplugged rendition, are considered definitive. “Tears In Heaven” is a moving and enduring acoustic ballad, showcasing Clapton’s songwriting and emotional depth. It’s a challenging song to perform due to its emotional weight but rewarding for its musical and lyrical impact.
5. The Eagles – Hotel California (Unplugged)
The Eagles’ Unplugged version of “Hotel California” is a guitar showcase within a song. From the Spanish-style intro to the tasteful solos, the acoustic arrangement highlights the exceptional guitar work inherent in this classic track. Despite its length, the acoustic “Hotel California” is captivating for its musicianship and the opportunity to hear the song’s intricate guitar parts in a stripped-down setting. Guitarists can study the various acoustic guitar techniques employed, from fingerstyle to strumming and soloing.
4. The Beatles – Blackbird
“Blackbird” is a solo acoustic performance by Paul McCartney, inspired by Bach and reflecting on civil rights struggles. McCartney’s gentle fingerpicking pattern on a Martin D-28 is the song’s foundation, accompanied only by his foot tapping and bird sound effects. “Blackbird” is a masterclass in solo acoustic performance and a testament to McCartney’s melodic genius. Guitarists can learn McCartney’s distinctive fingerpicking pattern and appreciate the song’s lyrical depth and historical context.
3. The Beatles – Here Comes The Sun
George Harrison’s “Here Comes The Sun” is an eternally optimistic and beloved Beatles track. Written while skipping Apple meetings in Eric Clapton’s garden, the song is breezy, sweet, and melodically rich. Harrison’s acoustic guitar work is central, featuring multiple time signatures and various acoustic guitar applications. “Here Comes The Sun” is a joyful and musically sophisticated song, offering guitarists a chance to explore different time signatures and acoustic arranging techniques.
2. The Beatles – Yesterday
“Yesterday” is one of the most covered songs in history, originating from a melody that came to Paul McCartney in a dream. Initially, The Beatles struggled to record it as a band, but it found its perfect form as a solo acoustic performance by McCartney on an Epiphone Texan. “Yesterday” is a landmark song in The Beatles’ evolution, showcasing the power of a simple acoustic arrangement and McCartney’s songwriting genius. It’s a foundational song for any guitarist to learn, demonstrating effective melody and chord progression in an acoustic setting.
1. Pink Floyd – Wish You Were Here
Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here” tops this list as a powerful tribute to Syd Barrett. This iconic song showcases Pink Floyd’s post-Dark Side Of The Moon artistry and their ability to blend personal emotion with universal themes. “Wish You Were Here” is a towering acoustic ballad, deserving of its place as a favorite among acoustic guitar enthusiasts. Guitarists can appreciate the song’s emotive chord progression, David Gilmour’s soulful vocal delivery, and its enduring legacy as an acoustic classic.
