If you're just starting out with the guitar, you might feel overwhelmed by the thought of learning complicated songs. But don't worry! There are plenty of easy guitar songs that you can pick up in no time. In this article, we’ve rounded up 10 simple songs that are perfect for beginners. These tunes not only sound great but will also help you build your confidence and skills on the guitar. So grab your guitar and let’s get strumming!
Key Takeaways
- These songs are perfect for beginners.
- Most of them use simple chord progressions.
- You can learn each song in under 30 minutes.
- Playing these songs can boost your confidence.
- They are fun to play and great for sing-alongs.
1. Bad Liar
Okay, so you wanna start easy? "Bad Liar" by Imagine Dragons is a solid choice. It's not gonna win you any shredding contests, but it's super catchy and a great way to get your fingers moving. You'll be surprised how quickly you can pick this one up. Seriously, it's almost too easy, but hey, everyone starts somewhere, right?
Here's the deal: this song is all about the rhythm and getting those chord changes down smooth. Don't worry too much about being perfect at first. Just focus on keeping a steady beat and switching between chords without stopping. Once you've got that down, you can start adding some flair to your strumming.
I remember when I first tried this song, I kept messing up the transitions. But after like, half an hour, it just clicked. It's all about muscle memory, so just keep practicing and you'll get there!
Here's a simple breakdown to get you started:
- Learn the basic chords. You'll probably only need a couple.
- Practice the chord changes slowly. Speed comes later.
- Strum along with the song. Pay attention to the rhythm.
- Don't be afraid to mess up. It's part of the process.
And that's it! You'll be playing "Bad Liar" before you know it. And if you want to learn the chords using GuitarTuna, that's a great resource too!
2. The Git Up
Okay, so you wanna get people moving? "The Git Up" by Blanco Brown is your jam. It's like a musical shot of espresso – instant energy! This song is a super fun mix of country, dance, and even a little hip-hop. Seriously, it's a party in a song.
The best part? It's easy to learn on guitar. You can be strumming along in no time, and before you know it, everyone will be doing the Git Up dance. Check out the official video to learn the moves – it's all part of the fun!
I remember the first time I played this at a bonfire. By the second chorus, everyone was up and trying to do the dance. It was hilarious and awesome. Definitely a crowd-pleaser!
Here's what you need to know:
- Chords: E, A. That's it! Two chords and you're ready to go.
- Difficulty: Super easy. Like, beginner-beginner easy.
- Vibe: Guaranteed to make people smile and move.
If you're looking for a song that's simple to play and gets everyone involved, "The Git Up" is a winner. You can find Jamey Johnson songs and chords online to help you get started. Get ready to bring the hoedown to your house!
3. Twist and Shout
Okay, so "Twist and Shout" might sound intimidating, but trust me, it's totally doable. This song is a classic for a reason, and you'll be belting it out in no time. It's got that raw energy that just makes you want to move, and the simple chord progression makes it super accessible. You'll probably recognize it from Ferris Bueller's Day Off, right?
It's all about D, G, and A chords. Seriously, that's it. Once you get those down, you're golden. The rhythm is pretty straightforward, too, so you can focus on getting those chord changes smooth. Don't worry if it sounds a little rough at first; that's part of the charm! Just keep practicing, and you'll nail it. You can even download sheet music to help you along the way.
I remember when I first tried learning this song. I kept messing up the transition from G to A, and it sounded awful. But I just kept at it, and after a few days, it finally clicked. Now, it's one of my go-to songs when I just want to have some fun with my guitar.
Here's a simple breakdown:
- Tuning: Standard (E A D G B e)
- Key: D Major
- Chords: D, G, A
The key is to keep it simple and have fun. Don't overthink it, just feel the music and let loose. You'll be twisting and shouting in no time!
4. Crazy Little Thing Called Love
Okay, so you want to play something a little more upbeat? "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" by Queen is a fantastic choice! It's got that rockabilly vibe that's super fun to play, and it's not as hard as it sounds. Trust me, you'll be rockin' out in no time.
First things first, you'll be using some basic chords: D, G, and C. But here's the kicker: there's also a B flat chord in there. Don't let that scare you! It might seem a little tricky at first, but with a bit of practice, you'll nail it. The key is to keep the rhythm going, especially during the verses. Think about skipping the down strum on the third and fourth beats to get that authentic feel. You can find the original recording online to help you get the feel for the song.
This song is all about having fun, so don't stress too much about getting everything perfect right away. Just enjoy the process of learning and let loose! Before you know it, you'll be playing along to one of Queen's most iconic hits.
Here's a quick rundown:
- Tuning: Standard E (E A D G B E)
- Key: D Major
- Capo: Nope, no capo needed here!
- Chords: D, G, C, and that B flat we talked about. You can find a chord chart online to help you visualize the finger positions.
5. The Lazy Song
Okay, who doesn't love this one? "The Lazy Song" by Bruno Mars is practically an anthem for those days when you just want to chill. It's super catchy, and the guitar part is surprisingly simple. You can totally nail this one while, ironically, being lazy.
The best part? It uses a bunch of common chords, so you're probably already familiar with most of them.
Here's a quick rundown:
- Tuning: Standard (E A D G B E)
- Key: B (but don't worry, we'll make it easier)
- Capo: Put a capo on the 4th fret. This makes the chords way easier to play.
- Chords: G, D, C, B7, Am, Bm, Em. Don't let that Bm scare you! With the capo, it's not too bad. You can find Bruno Mars' songs that are easy to play.
Seriously, this song is all about having fun. Don't stress about making it perfect. Just strum along and enjoy the vibes. It's a great one to play with friends, too. Everyone knows the words, so you can have a little sing-along session. Plus, learning this song is a great way to build your chord vocabulary and get more comfortable with switching between chords. So, go ahead, be lazy and learn this song!
6. Watermelon Sugar
Okay, this one's a total vibe. "Watermelon Sugar" by Harry Styles is super catchy and surprisingly easy to play on guitar. The main chord progression is pretty repetitive, which makes it great for beginners. You'll be strumming along in no time, belting out those sweet summer lyrics. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser – everyone knows and loves this song!
I remember when I first tried learning this song. I was so intimidated by the idea of playing anything by Harry Styles, thinking it would be too complicated. But honestly, the chords are simple, and the rhythm is forgiving. It's the perfect song to boost your confidence and get you feeling like a rockstar. Give it a shot; you might surprise yourself!
Here's what makes it beginner-friendly:
- Simple chord progression
- Repetitive structure
- Upbeat tempo that's easy to follow
If you're looking for a fun, feel-good song to add to your repertoire, "Watermelon Sugar" is definitely the way to go. You can find Harry Styles songs with chords and tabs online, so grab your guitar and get ready to spread some watermelon sugar high!
7. Three Little Birds
"Three Little Birds" by Bob Marley is a classic for a reason! It's super uplifting and, guess what? It's also really easy to play on guitar. You'll be strumming along and feeling good in no time. Seriously, this song is all about positive vibes and simple chords, making it perfect for beginners.
Don't worry about a thing, because every little thing's gonna be alright! This song is a great reminder to keep things simple and enjoy the process of learning guitar. Plus, who doesn't love Bob Marley?
Here's what makes it so accessible:
- It uses only three chords: A, D, and E. These are some of the first chords most guitarists learn.
- The strumming pattern is pretty straightforward. You can easily find tutorials online that break it down.
- The tempo is relaxed, giving you plenty of time to switch between chords.
It's a fantastic way to practice playing chords and get comfortable with transitions. So grab your guitar, look up the chords, and start spreading those good vibes!
8. Smells Like Teen Spirit
Okay, who hasn't heard this one? "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana is practically a rite of passage for anyone picking up an electric guitar. It's simple, it's grungy, and it's incredibly fun to play.
If you're just starting out, don't be intimidated by the barre chords. You can actually make it even easier by using a capo on the first fret. This lets you play the song with Em, A, G, and C chords. Trust me, it still sounds awesome. Plus, mastering this song will give you a solid foundation for power chords and palm muting, which are super useful techniques to have under your belt.
This song is a great starting point for learning guitar because it uses simple chord progressions and techniques that are common in many other songs. Once you've got this one down, you'll be surprised how quickly you can pick up other tunes.
Here's a quick rundown:
- Tuning: Standard (E A D G B E)
- Key: E minor (but can vary depending on how you play it)
- Capo: Optional, but recommended for beginners (1st fret)
- Chords Used: E, A, G, C, Em (depending on capo use)
Ready to rock? You can find guitar tabs online to help you get started.
9. Zombie
"Zombie" by The Cranberries is a powerful song, and you can totally learn it! It's got a simple structure, but the lyrics are super meaningful. You can play it on acoustic, but it really shines on electric with some overdrive during the chorus. It's a great one to add to your repertoire.
The song is built around just four chords, making it surprisingly accessible for beginners.
Here's a quick rundown:
- Tuning: Standard (E A D G B E)
- Key: E Minor (mostly)
- Capo: Not needed
- Chords: Em, Cmaj7, G, D
The song's structure is pretty straightforward, so once you get the chords down, you'll be playing along in no time. Don't be afraid to experiment with adding some distortion to your guitar for that iconic sound. You can find interactive lessons online to help you learn the song.
10. Losing My Religion
Okay, so maybe you've heard this one a million times, but trust me, it's popular for a reason. "Losing My Religion" by R.E.M. is surprisingly easy to play on guitar, and it sounds awesome. It's a great way to impress your friends, even if they're tired of hearing it.
The main riff is based around mandolin, but it translates super well to guitar. You can play it with simple fingerpicking or use a pick – whatever feels more comfortable. The chords are pretty straightforward, and the tempo is forgiving, so you can really focus on getting the feel right.
It's all about nailing that iconic melody. Plus, it's a fantastic song for practicing your arpeggios. Here's why it's a winner:
- Simple chord progression
- Repetitive structure
- Recognizable melody
With the BandJamTrax Guitar tutor, you can learn to play this song using common chord shapes. It's designed to be easy to follow and enjoyable for players of all levels. So, grab your guitar and get ready to play one of the most iconic songs of the '90s!
Wrap-Up: Your Guitar Journey Awaits!
So there you have it! Ten easy guitar songs that you can pick up in no time. Whether you’re jamming with friends or just strumming away in your room, these tunes are sure to bring a smile to your face. Remember, the key is to have fun and not stress too much about perfection. Just keep practicing, and before you know it, you’ll be playing like a pro. So grab your guitar, choose a song, and let the music flow! Happy strumming!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some easy guitar songs for beginners?
Some easy songs include 'Bad Liar' by Selena Gomez, 'The Git Up' by Blanco Brown, and 'Three Little Birds' by Bob Marley. These songs use simple chords that are great for beginners.
How long does it take to learn a song on guitar?
It usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes to learn a simple song if you have basic knowledge of the chords.
Do I need to know music theory to play guitar?
No, you don't need to know music theory to start playing guitar. You can learn by practicing songs and chords.
What type of guitar is best for beginners?
An acoustic guitar is often recommended for beginners because it's easy to carry and play without needing extra equipment.
Can I learn guitar online?
Yes! There are many online resources, including video tutorials and apps, that can help you learn guitar at your own pace.
What should I practice as a beginner?
Start with basic chords, strumming patterns, and simple songs. This will help build your skills and confidence.
