Learning How To Play Easy Song On Electric Guitar can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and at guitarplayers.net, we are dedicated to making that journey smooth and enjoyable for you. By starting with simplified songs and gradually building your skills, you’ll be shredding your favorite tunes in no time. Ready to learn beginner guitar and find simple guitar songs, including some easy electric guitar songs?
1. Why Choose Electric Guitar for Easy Songs?
Is learning easy songs on electric guitar a good starting point? Absolutely! While many beginners start with acoustic guitars, electric guitars offer distinct advantages, especially when learning easy songs.
- Easier on the Fingers: Electric guitars typically have lighter gauge strings, making them easier to press down and reducing finger soreness.
- Slimmer Necks: The necks of electric guitars are often slimmer, which can be more comfortable for players with smaller hands.
- Versatility: Electric guitars can produce a wide range of tones, making them suitable for various musical genres, from rock and blues to pop and country.
- Instant Gratification: With the right amp and effects, you can quickly achieve the sounds of your favorite guitar heroes, making the learning process more exciting.
According to research from the Berklee College of Music, beginning guitarists who find the instrument physically comfortable are more likely to stick with it.
Alt: Close-up of an electric guitar neck, showing the frets and strings, ideal for beginners learning easy songs.
2. Essential Gear for Playing Easy Songs on Electric Guitar
What gear do you need to begin learning easy songs on electric guitar? You’ll need a few essential items to start learning easy songs on electric guitar.
- Electric Guitar: Choose a beginner-friendly model like a Fender Squier, Epiphone Les Paul, or Yamaha Pacifica. These guitars offer good value and playability.
- Amplifier: A small practice amp is perfect for home use. Look for models with built-in effects like overdrive and reverb to experiment with different sounds.
- Guitar Cable: A high-quality cable will ensure a clear signal and prevent unwanted noise.
- Picks: Experiment with different thicknesses to find what feels comfortable for you.
- Tuner: A digital tuner is essential for keeping your guitar in tune. Clip-on tuners are convenient and easy to use.
- Guitar Strap: If you plan to play standing up, you’ll need a comfortable strap.
Consider these accessories:
- Guitar Case: Protect your instrument when transporting it.
- Spare Strings: It’s always good to have extra strings on hand in case one breaks.
- Guitar Stand: Keep your guitar safe and accessible when not in use.
3. Basic Guitar Chords for Beginners
What are the first chords you should learn on electric guitar? Mastering a few basic chords is the foundation for playing many easy songs on electric guitar. Here are some essential chords to get you started:
- E Major: A fundamental chord found in countless rock and pop songs.
- A Major: Another common chord that pairs well with E major in many progressions.
- D Major: A bright and cheerful chord often used in folk and country songs.
- G Major: A versatile chord that works well in various genres.
- C Major: A simple chord that’s easy to finger and sounds great in pop and folk tunes.
- E Minor: A more melancholic chord that adds depth to your playing.
- A Minor: A darker-sounding chord that complements E minor well.
To make learning easier, focus on clean finger placement and smooth transitions between chords. Practice each chord slowly and deliberately, gradually increasing your speed as you become more comfortable.
Alt: Diagram showing basic guitar chords like E major, A major, D major, G major, C major, E minor, and A minor.
4. Easy Strumming Patterns for Electric Guitar
What are some simple strumming patterns I can use on electric guitar? Once you know a few basic chords, you can start practicing simple strumming patterns to play easy songs on electric guitar. Here are a few to get you started:
- Down, Down, Down, Down: A basic strumming pattern that works well for many songs.
- Down, Up, Down, Up: A slightly more complex pattern that adds a bit of rhythm.
- Down, Down, Up, Down, Up: A popular pattern that’s used in countless songs.
When practicing strumming patterns, focus on keeping a steady rhythm and maintaining a relaxed wrist. Start slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.
5. How to Read Guitar Tabs (Tablature)
What is guitar tablature, and how do I read it? Guitar tabs are a simplified way to read music for guitar, showing you where to place your fingers on the fretboard.
Guitar tabs (tablature) are a simplified way to read music for guitar. Instead of using standard musical notation, tabs use numbers to represent the frets on the guitar’s fretboard. Each line in a tab corresponds to a string on the guitar, with the bottom line representing the low E string and the top line representing the high E string. Numbers on the lines indicate which fret to press down on that string.
For example, a “0” on the bottom line means you should play the open low E string, while a “3” on the second line from the bottom means you should press down on the 3rd fret of the A string. Tabs also include symbols to indicate techniques like bends, slides, and hammer-ons. Learning to read guitar tabs opens up a vast library of songs and riffs that you can learn to play.
Alt: An example of guitar tablature showing how to read fret numbers and string positions.
6. Top 10 Easy Songs to Learn on Electric Guitar
What are some popular songs that are easy to learn on electric guitar? Here are 10 easy songs to learn on electric guitar, perfect for beginners:
- “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes: This song features a simple but iconic riff that’s easy to play.
- “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple: Another classic riff-based song that’s perfect for beginners.
- “You Really Got Me” by The Kinks: A catchy song with a simple chord progression.
- “Blitzkrieg Bop” by The Ramones: A fast-paced punk rock anthem with easy-to-play power chords.
- “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts: A simple and fun song with a great chorus.
- “Iron Man” by Black Sabbath: A heavy riff that’s surprisingly easy to play.
- “Paranoid” by Black Sabbath: Another iconic Black Sabbath song with a simple riff.
- “Song 2” by Blur: A high-energy song with a memorable riff.
- “Basket Case” by Green Day: A pop-punk classic with easy-to-play chords.
- “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones: With arguably the most recognizable Keith Richards guitar riff ever, “Satisfaction” is a fine example of why the Rolling Stones’ rock-meets-soul strut got them dubbed the “greatest rock ‘n’ roll band in the world.”
7. Learning from the Greats: Easy Songs by Iconic Artists
Can learning songs from famous artists help me improve my guitar skills? Absolutely! Learning easy songs by iconic artists can be a great way to improve your guitar skills and expand your musical repertoire. Here are a few examples:
7.1. Smashing Pumpkins: “Cherub Rock”
Billy Corgan’s knack for combining hard rock riffs and pop hooks comes together nicely under the chugging rhythm guitar pulse of the 1993 Smashing Pumpkins hit “Cherub Rock.” The first single off the breakthrough Siamese Dream offers a solid practice regimen for octave riffs and 16th note strumming from Fender Play instructor Matt Lake.
7.2. Blue Öyster Cult: “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper”
Brush up on your arpeggio picking and palm muting with Blue Öyster Cult’s 1976 acclaimed “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper.” This song has a haunting vibe, and Rolling Stone named it song of the year the year of its release.
7.3. Willie Dixon: “I Can’t Quit You Baby”
Even though Willie Dixon wrote the blues standard “I Can’t Quit You Baby,” Otis Rush first recorded it in 1956 and many others, like Led Zeppelin, have covered it over the years. It’s got a blues flavor with only three chords (G, C, and D).
7.4. Black Uhuru: “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner”
Work on your reggae rhythm skills with Black Uhuru’s “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.” The classic reggae backbeat that runs through the entire hypnotic, groovy song.
7.5. Elmore James: “It Hurts Me Too”
Elmore James makes hurt and sorrow sound mighty appealing on the classic “It Hurts Me Too” with traditional blues chord changes. By learning the shuffle pattern and how to downstrum, it’s a great way in the blues doorway.
7.6. The Strokes: “Last Nite”
The Strokes brought punk and garage rock back to the charts in the early 2000s with their debut single, “Last Nite,” and its upbeat dancey rhythm. Take a stab at the New York City band’s groundbreaking hit in a lesson that gets you familiar with chord anticipation and 16th note strumming patterns.
7.7. The Cars: “My Best Friend’s Girl”
The Cars mixed easy-to-learn hard rock guitar and new wave synth-pop to massive success, especially with “My Best Friend’s Girl.” The easy three-chord progression takes you back to the 1980s in this video.
7.8. Cracker: “Low”
It takes only four chords (D, C, E and G) to get through “Low,” the 1993 hit from rockers Cracker. Dive into basic chord switching with a consistent strum pattern in this video.
7.9. Robert Cray: “Smoking Gun”
Stratocaster master Robert Cray had a pop radio hit on his hands with “Smoking Gun,” which reached No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Using the chords E minor and A minor, you can work through a few basic techniques with this classic blues jam.
8. Practicing Techniques to Improve Your Guitar Skills
What are some good practice techniques for electric guitar? Consistent and effective practice is essential for improving your guitar skills. Here are some techniques to incorporate into your practice routine:
- Warm-up Exercises: Start each practice session with simple warm-up exercises to get your fingers moving and improve dexterity.
- Chord Transitions: Practice switching smoothly between chords to improve your rhythm and timing.
- Scale Practice: Learn and practice scales to develop your fingerboard knowledge and improve your soloing skills.
- Rhythm Exercises: Use a metronome to practice your rhythm and timing.
- Ear Training: Train your ear to recognize chords and melodies.
- Learn Songs: Learning songs is a great way to apply your skills and expand your repertoire.
- Record Yourself: Recording yourself playing can help you identify areas for improvement.
- Set Goals: Set realistic goals for each practice session to stay motivated and focused.
- Take Breaks: Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue and prevent injuries.
- Have Fun: Make sure to enjoy the process of learning and playing guitar.
According to Guitar World, even short, focused practice sessions can yield significant improvements over time.
9. Exploring Different Guitar Genres
What genres are best for learning electric guitar? Exploring different guitar genres can broaden your musical horizons and improve your versatility as a player. Here are a few genres to consider:
- Rock: Rock music is a great genre for learning power chords, riffs, and solos.
- Blues: Blues music is perfect for learning improvisation, bending, and vibrato techniques.
- Pop: Pop music often features simple chord progressions and catchy melodies, making it a great genre for beginners.
- Country: Country music is a good genre for learning fingerpicking and hybrid picking techniques.
- Metal: Metal music is perfect for learning fast picking, sweep picking, and tapping techniques.
- Jazz: Jazz music is a challenging but rewarding genre for learning complex chords, improvisation, and advanced techniques.
10. Online Resources for Learning Guitar
What are some online resources that can help me learn guitar? There are many online resources available to help you learn guitar, including websites, apps, and video lessons. Here are a few popular options:
- guitarplayers.net: Offers a wealth of information, including lessons, reviews, and a community forum.
- Fender Play: A subscription-based service that offers structured guitar lessons for beginners.
- JustinGuitar.com: A free website with comprehensive guitar lessons for all levels.
- YouTube: A vast library of free guitar lessons and tutorials.
- Ultimate-Guitar.com: A website with a large collection of guitar tabs and chords.
- Songsterr.com: A website with interactive guitar tabs that play along with the song.
Remember to check out guitarplayers.net for more resources and to connect with other guitar enthusiasts! We offer a supportive community and a wealth of information to help you on your musical journey. Address: 1140 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, United States. Phone: +1 (617) 747-2261. Website: guitarplayers.net.
Alt: A screenshot of an online guitar lesson interface showing chord diagrams and tablature.
11. Maintaining Your Electric Guitar
How do I keep my electric guitar in good condition? Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your electric guitar in good condition and ensuring it plays its best. Here are a few tips:
- Clean Your Guitar Regularly: Wipe down your guitar after each use to remove dirt, sweat, and fingerprints.
- Change Your Strings Regularly: Replace your strings every few months or when they start to sound dull.
- Adjust Your Guitar’s Action: Adjust the height of the strings to make it easier to play.
- Intonate Your Guitar: Adjust the length of the strings to ensure they play in tune.
- Oil Your Fretboard: Oil your fretboard every few months to keep it from drying out.
- Store Your Guitar Properly: Store your guitar in a case or on a stand in a temperature-controlled environment.
- Get Regular Checkups: Take your guitar to a professional for regular checkups and maintenance.
12. Connecting with the Guitar Community
How can I connect with other guitar players? Connecting with other guitar players can be a great way to learn new things, get inspired, and make friends. Here are a few ways to connect with the guitar community:
- Join a Band: Playing in a band is a great way to improve your skills and meet other musicians.
- Take Lessons: Taking lessons from a qualified instructor can help you improve your technique and learn new things.
- Attend Workshops and Clinics: Attending workshops and clinics can be a great way to learn from experienced players.
- Go to Guitar Shows and Festivals: Guitar shows and festivals are a great place to see the latest gear and meet other guitar enthusiasts.
- Join Online Forums and Communities: Online forums and communities like guitarplayers.net are a great way to connect with other players from around the world.
13. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Learning Guitar
What mistakes should I avoid when learning guitar? Avoiding common mistakes can help you progress more quickly and efficiently. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:
- Not Practicing Regularly: Consistent practice is essential for improving your guitar skills.
- Practicing Incorrectly: Make sure you’re practicing the right techniques and habits.
- Not Using a Metronome: A metronome can help you improve your rhythm and timing.
- Not Learning Music Theory: Learning basic music theory can help you understand how music works.
- Not Listening to Music: Listening to music can help you develop your ear and get inspired.
- Giving Up Too Soon: Learning guitar takes time and effort, so don’t give up too soon.
- Comparing Yourself to Others: Focus on your own progress and don’t compare yourself to others.
14. Setting Realistic Goals for Your Guitar Journey
How do I set achievable goals for learning guitar? Setting realistic goals can help you stay motivated and track your progress. Here are a few tips:
- Start Small: Begin with achievable goals, such as learning a new chord or song each week.
- Be Specific: Set specific goals, such as practicing for 30 minutes each day or learning a particular solo.
- Track Your Progress: Keep track of your progress to see how far you’ve come.
- Reward Yourself: Reward yourself when you achieve your goals to stay motivated.
- Adjust Your Goals as Needed: Adjust your goals as you progress and your skills improve.
15. The Importance of Patience and Persistence
Why is patience so important when learning guitar? Learning guitar takes time, patience, and persistence. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Just keep practicing and you’ll eventually reach your goals. Remember to celebrate your successes along the way and enjoy the journey of learning to play the electric guitar.
FAQ: Easy Songs on Electric Guitar
1. What is the easiest song to learn on electric guitar for beginners?
“Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes is often considered one of the easiest songs to learn on electric guitar due to its simple and repetitive riff.
2. What are the best beginner-friendly electric guitars?
Some of the best beginner-friendly electric guitars include the Fender Squier series, Epiphone Les Paul models, and Yamaha Pacifica guitars.
3. How many hours a day should a beginner practice electric guitar?
A beginner should aim to practice electric guitar for at least 30 minutes to an hour each day for consistent progress.
4. What are some essential techniques to learn as a beginner electric guitarist?
Essential techniques include learning basic chords, strumming patterns, reading guitar tabs, and practicing finger exercises.
5. Is it better to learn on acoustic or electric guitar first?
While personal preference plays a role, electric guitars often have lighter strings and slimmer necks, making them easier on the fingers for beginners.
6. Can I learn electric guitar online?
Yes, there are many excellent online resources, such as guitarplayers.net, Fender Play, and JustinGuitar.com, that offer structured lessons and tutorials.
7. What equipment do I need to start playing electric guitar?
You’ll need an electric guitar, amplifier, guitar cable, picks, tuner, and optionally a guitar strap and case.
8. How do I tune my electric guitar?
You can use a digital tuner, a clip-on tuner, or a smartphone app to tune your electric guitar.
9. What are some common mistakes to avoid when learning electric guitar?
Common mistakes include not practicing regularly, practicing incorrect techniques, and giving up too soon.
10. How can I stay motivated while learning electric guitar?
Setting realistic goals, tracking your progress, connecting with other guitar players, and learning songs you enjoy can help you stay motivated.
Start your musical journey with these easy songs and let guitarplayers.net be your guide to mastering the electric guitar. Explore our lessons, reviews, and community forum to enhance your skills and connect with fellow guitar enthusiasts. Don’t wait—discover the joy of playing guitar today! Visit guitarplayers.net and unlock your musical potential.
