Learning guitar can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and it’s often easier than many people think. The truth is, a vast number of popular and beloved songs rely on just a few simple guitar chords. If you’re looking for a quick way to start playing your favorite tunes, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will show you how to play 12 fantastic songs using the same four basic guitar chords, in the same order! Get ready to impress yourself and your friends with these easy guitar songs.
This magical chord progression, which we’ll call the “Don’t Stop Believing” progression due to its fame in the Journey classic, is incredibly versatile. It appears in countless hit songs across genres. The chord progression is:
G Major – D Major – E minor – C Major
Below, you’ll find chord diagrams to help you visualize these essential shapes. Once you’re comfortable with these four chords, you’ll be amazed at how many songs you can play. For each song in our list, we’ll also indicate if you need a capo and where to place it, as this helps to adjust the key of the song to match the original recording while still using the same chord shapes. Grab your guitar, and let’s dive into these simple guitar chord songs!
G Major Chord Diagram for Easy Guitar Songs
Visual guide on how to play the G major chord, a foundational chord for simple guitar songs.
E minor Chord Diagram for Guitar Songs
Diagram showing the E minor chord, another essential easy guitar chord for beginners.
D Major Chord Diagram for Simple Guitar Songs
Instructional image for playing the D major chord, a key component in many beginner guitar songs.
C Major Chord Diagram for Guitar Songs
Visual guide on how to play the C major chord, completing the set of four simple guitar chords.
1) “Don’t Stop Believin” – Journey
Capo 9th fret (E Major)
This iconic anthem is a perfect example of how powerful this simple chord progression can be. Place your capo on the 9th fret, and you’ll be playing along to this classic in no time.
Chord chart: here.
2) “With or Without You” – U2
Capo 7th fret (D Major)
U2’s timeless ballad uses the same four chords to create a deeply emotional and resonant sound. Putting the capo at the 7th fret will put you in the right key to strum along.
Chord chart: here.
3) “Soul Sister” – Train
Capo 9th fret (E Major)
This catchy and upbeat track from Train demonstrates the versatility of this chord progression across different genres. Capo on the 9th fret, and you’re ready to play the verse.
Chord Chart: here.
Notes: While the verse uses our core progression, be aware that the chorus has a slight variation. The chorus chords are: C D G G….C D G G.
4) “Let it Be” – The Beatles
Capo 5th fret (C Major)
Even the Beatles utilized this fundamental progression! “Let It Be” is a classic example of how simplicity can create enduring music. Capo on the 5th fret to play this legendary song.
Chord Chart: here.
Notes: Similar to “Soul Sister,” the verse follows our main progression, but the chorus shifts slightly. The chorus chords are: e- D C G….G D C G.
5) “Already Gone” – Kelly Clarkson
Capo 2nd fret (A Major)
Kelly Clarkson’s power ballad showcases how this progression can be used in pop music to create a strong emotional impact. Capo on the 2nd fret to play along.
Chord Chart: here.
6) “I’m Yours” – Jason Mraz
Capo 4th fret (B Major)
Jason Mraz’s laid-back hit demonstrates the sunny, feel-good side of this chord progression. Capo on the 4th fret and enjoy the breezy vibes.
Chord Chart: here.
Notes: Keep an ear out for the occasional A major chord that Jason throws in as a slight variation.
7) “Take Me Home Country Roads” – John Denver
Capo 2nd fret (A Major)
John Denver’s country classic proves this progression transcends genres, fitting perfectly into a country setting. Capo on the 2nd fret to transport yourself to those country roads.
Chord Chart: here.
Notes: You might hear a D7 chord instead of a D major occasionally, adding a touch of country flavor.
8) “Cruise” – Florida Georgia Line
Capo 3rd fret (Bb Major)
Florida Georgia Line brought this progression to modern country, demonstrating its continued relevance in contemporary music. Capo on the 3rd fret and get ready to cruise.
Chord Chart: here.
9) “Save Tonight” – Eagle Eye Cherry
Capo 5th fret (C Major)
Eagle Eye Cherry’s 90s hit offers a slightly different take by starting the progression in a different place, proving its flexibility. Capo on the 5th fret and save tonight with your guitar.
Chord Chart: here.
Notes: The progression is the same, but it starts on E minor: e- C G D.
10) “Hey Oh (Snow)” – Red Hot Chili Peppers
Capo 4th fret (B Major)
Red Hot Chili Peppers show how this progression can even work in alternative rock, adding their signature funk twist. Capo on the 4th fret to play this recognizable riff.
Chord Chart: here.
Notes: Like “Save Tonight,” this song starts the progression on E minor: e- C G D.
11) “Apologize” – OneRepublic Ft. Timbaland
Capo 8th fret (Eb Major)
OneRepublic’s collaboration with Timbaland brought this progression to the pop charts again in the 2000s. Capo on the 8th fret and apologize with your newfound guitar skills.
Chord Chart: here.
Notes: Again, the progression starts on E minor: e- C G D.
12) “Love the Way You Lie” – Eminem ft. Rihanna
Capo 3rd fret (Bb major)
Eminem and Rihanna’s powerful duet demonstrates the emotional range of this simple progression, even in hip-hop influenced pop. Capo on the 3rd fret to play along with this modern classic.
Chord Chart: here.
Notes: This song also starts the progression on E minor: e- C G D.
With just these four simple guitar chords and a capo, you can play a huge repertoire of songs. This list of 12 simple guitar chord songs is just the beginning. Start learning these chords, practice these songs, and you’ll be well on your way to guitar mastery!
