25 Easy Guitar Licks and Riffs for Beginners (With Tabs + Videos)

Easy guitar licks are a great way for beginners to improve their playing techniques and musical abilities. By learning these simple and catchy phrases, you’ll also hone your skills in improvisation and playing guitar solos. With just a bit of practice and dedication, you’ll soon impress your friends and family with your newfound lead guitar skills.

Some popular techniques you’ll encounter when learning easy guitar licks include string bending, vibrato, slides, and double stops. These techniques are frequently used in various musical genres, such as blues, rock, and rock and roll. Famous guitarists like Chuck Berry, Eric Clapton, and Jimi Hendrix mastered these techniques, incorporating them into their unforgettable songs. If you’re just starting with your electric guitar, you’ll find that learning minor and minor pentatonic scales can provide a solid foundation for your playing journey.

Many resources are available, such as the Guitar Advise website, where you can find videos and tabs of intermediate guitar songs to practice. By working through their collection of fun songs, slide guitar songs, and clean-tone licks, you’ll develop a versatile skillset that will enable you to play in various keys like E minor or D minor, and even tackle iconic tunes from bands like Pink Floyd and Cream. So, grab your guitar, choose a few easy licks, and start practicing – you’ll be amazed at how quickly you progress!

Smoke on the Water by Deep Purple

Ever wanted to learn one of the most famous and recognizable guitar licks in rock history? Look no further! You’ve probably heard the iconic riff of “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple countless times, and it’s no wonder. It’s easy to play yet extremely catchy, making it a perfect first lick for beginner guitarists.

To start playing this legendary riff, grab your guitar and let’s get to work! You only need three simple power chords: G5, F#, and C5. Here’s a breakdown of the riff:

The key to mastering this riff is taking it slow and steady. Start by practicing each chord individually, then work on transitioning smoothly between each. Once you feel comfortable with the chords and transitions, gradually increase your speed until you’re playing along with the original tempo of 114 BPM (beats per minute).

Some tips for nailing the Smoke on the Water riff include:

• Use alternate picking on the third string (G string)
• Try palm-muting for a more defined, crunchy sound
• Don’t forget to bend the note on the 3-6-5 section slightly, giving it that bluesy touch

Practice playing along with the original recording to help you get the rhythm and groove down too. Before you know it, you’ll be rocking out to this timeless riff like a pro! Remember, patience and consistency are key. So if you ever feel frustrated, just take a break and come back to it later. You’ll be glad you did!

Day Tripper by The Beatles

Day Tripper is the perfect song to get started! This catchy tune features a memorable riff that is easy to learn and enjoyable to play. So, let’s dive into it!

First things first, you need to know the chords for Day Tripper. The main riff is played with just two chords: E7 and A7. To make it even easier, you can use the open position for both chords. Here’s the tab for the main riff:

Now that you’ve got the chords, let’s talk about the iconic opening lick. It’s a catchy, descending melody that sets the song’s tone. This lick is played on the G and D strings. You’ll want to start by sliding your finger from the 2nd fret to the 4th fret on the G string. Then, simply follow the tab below:

There you have it! You’re now ready to rock out with some classic Beatles vibes. Remember to practice the main riff and opening lick slowly at first, and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable. And most importantly, have fun!

Incorporating Day Tripper into your guitar practice is not only enjoyable, but it can also help you master techniques like slides, bends, and chord changes. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your guitar and start jamming!

Sunshine Of Your Love by Cream

Now let’s explore the catchy and memorable guitar lick from “Sunshine Of Your Love” by Cream. As you dive into this classic, you’ll find it’s beginner-friendly and simple to play, making it a perfect choice to impress your friends.

First, let’s talk about the structure of this lick. “Sunshine Of Your Love” is driven by a riff that revolves around the D and G strings. The riff starts with moving between the 12th and 14th frets on the D string, followed by the G string. Here’s what the basic tab looks like:

Next, let’s focus on giving this lick that signature “Sunshine Of Your Love” sound. Notice the small bend on the G string at the 14th fret. Adding this subtle detail will enhance the overall feel of the riff:

To further enrich the tone, try adding some palm muting. This technique involves lightly resting your picking hand’s palm on the strings near the bridge of your guitar. This will create a dampened, yet powerful and rhythmic sound.

Finally, don’t forget to practice the change between the main riff and the chorus part. This transition includes a slide from the G string’s 14th fret to the 12th fret, like this:

Now that you’ve got the basic structure and techniques down, you’re ready to jam! Remember, practice makes perfect, so take it slow at first and gradually increase your speed. Have fun exploring this timeless guitar lick from Cream’s “Sunshine Of Your Love”!

Iron Man by Black Sabbath

Are you a classic rock fan and want to play some iconic riffs? Look no further! Black Sabbath’s “Iron Man” is an excellent choice for beginners looking to expand their guitar skills. This section’ll break down the signature lick from this timeless track.

To begin, let’s discuss the main riff of “Iron Man.” Played in the key of E minor, this lick has a simple yet powerful sound that showcases the band’s use of the blues scale. Here are the basic fret positions you’ll need:

• 7th fret on the A string
• 5th fret on the D string
• 7th fret on the D string

Now, playing the riff is a piece of cake! Start by plucking the E string with a palm-muted technique, then follow by playing the fret positions mentioned earlier in the following order: 7A, 5D, 7D, and back to 7A. Don’t worry if you don’t get it perfect right away – practice makes perfect!

The next part of the riff involves a slide and hammer-on technique. Slide from the 5th to the 7th fret on the A string, and then hammer-on to the 5th fret of the D string. Remember to keep your fingers relaxed and the pressure consistent to achieve a smooth slide.

To sum it all up, the “Iron Man” riff goes through the following sequence:

• E string (palm-muted)
• 7A
• 5D
• 7D
• 7A
• Slide from 5A to 7A
• Hammer-on to 5D

Once you’ve got the hang of these techniques, start playing the riff along with the song. Don’t forget to have fun and experiment with different speeds and variations to make the classic “Iron Man” lick your own. Soon enough, you’ll be rocking out like a true guitar hero!

Satisfaction by The Rolling Stones

Next, let’s dive into “Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones! This memorable lick is a fantastic starting point for beginners and’ll surely impress your friends.

The main riff of “Satisfaction” is a simple, catchy melody played mostly on the lower strings. You can play this on either an electric or an acoustic guitar. Here’s a quick breakdown of the riff:

• Start by playing the 2nd fret of the A string (B note) twice
• Then, play the open A string (A note)
• Next, play the 2nd fret of the D string, followed by the open D string
• Finally, play the 2nd fret of the A string once more

Remember to alternate between downstrokes and upstrokes when you play the riff. This will help you develop a confident picking technique.

Now that you’ve got the main lick down try playing it with the original song. You’ll notice that it repeats several times throughout the verses and chorus. As you get more comfortable, add your own variations to the riff. This will help you develop your playing style.

So, grab your guitar and start jamming to “Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones. With some practice, you’ll have this unforgettable lick mastered in no time. Happy playing!

Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes

Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes is a perfect guitar lick if you’re looking for something quick and easy to impress your friends. This catchy riff is not only easy to learn, but it’s also iconic and instantly recognizable. Let’s dive right in and learn how to play it!

First, you’ll be happy to know that this lick is played using only one low E string. That means you only need to fret the notes on a single string, making it super beginner-friendly. Here’s the tab for the main riff:

E|—–7-7—5–3-2–|-0-0 ———–|-

Start by playing the open low E string twice (0-0), followed by the 7th fret twice (7-7), the 5th fret (5), the 3rd fret (3) and then the 2nd fret (2). Practice this sequence slowly at first and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the fingering.

Now, let’s think about the rhythm. It’s essential to get the groove of this riff down to make it sound like the original. The first two notes (0-0) are played as quarter notes, followed by a group of two eighth notes (7-7) and four sixteenth notes (5-3-2). Listen closely to the original song to get the feel of the rhythm and practice playing along with the recording.

Another fun aspect of this riff is the use of dynamics. The White Stripes were known for their powerful and energetic sound, so don’t be afraid to really dig in and give those strings some attitude! Play the open low E string with more force for that extra punch, and experiment with palm muting for a different texture.

Use these tips to help you master Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes, and you’ll be well on your way to impressing your friends with your new guitar prowess – and maybe even sparking a sing-along session! Enjoy practicing and jamming to this iconic riff.

Come As You Are by Nirvana

This iconic song features a fantastic main riff that’s simple yet memorable, making it a perfect choice for beginners.

The beauty of “Come As You Are” lies in its simplicity. The main riff consists of just four power chords: E, G, D, and A. These chords are played with a catchy, groovy rhythm that you’ll soon have stuck in your head.

To help you master this lick, let’s break it down into manageable steps:

1. E Chord: Start by playing the open low E string. Then, place your index finger on the second fret of the A string and your ring finger on the fourth fret of the D string. Strum these three strings.
2. G Chord: Move your fingers up to form a G power chord. Place your index finger on the third fret of the low E string and your ring finger on the fifth fret of the A string. Strum these two strings, along with the open D string.
3. D Chord: Shift to the D power chord by placing your index finger on the fifth fret of the A string and your ring finger on the seventh fret of the D string. Strum these two strings, along with the open D string.
4. A Chord: Lastly, play the A power chord by placing your index finger on the fifth fret of the low E string and your ring finger on the seventh fret of the A string. Strum these two strings, along with the open A string.

Practice playing these chords in sequence, focusing on maintaining a smooth transition between them. You’ll want to develop a nice, even strumming pattern to give the riff its distinctive groove.

Congratulations! You’ve just learned the main riff of “Come As You Are.” Keep practicing, and before you know it, you’ll have this classic rock song nailed down. As you become more comfortable, try playing along with the actual track to get a feel for the song’s rhythm and timing. Have fun, and happy strumming!

Beat It by Michael Jackson

“Beat It” features guitarist Eddie Van Halen, who contributed to the song with an amazing solo. But don’t worry, you don’t need to be a guitar virtuoso to play some catchy licks from this song. Let’s focus on the main riff and the chords used in the song.

The main riff consists of some palm-muted power chords played in quick succession. Starting with E5, moving to B5, and then back to E5, you’ll definitely get a feel for the beat. Here’s the tab:

Once you’ve got the main riff down, let’s move on to the chords used throughout “Beat It.” The chords are simple: just Bm, F#m, and A. You can experiment with different strumming patterns and see what sounds best to you. Here’s the chord chart:

• Bm: x24432
• F#m: 244222
• A: x02220

Now that you’ve got the main riff and chords down, try playing along with the song and see how it feels. Practicing with the actual track is always a good idea to get a better feel for timing and dynamics. Keep in mind that practice makes perfect, so don’t get discouraged if it takes some time to get the hang of it.

And there you have it – your intro to playing some easy guitar licks from Michael Jackson’s “Beat It”! Remember to have fun and experiment with your own style as you learn. Good luck and happy strumming!

You Really Got Me by The Kinks or Van Halen

“You Really Got Me” is a great song to learn for beginners, whether you’re into the original by The Kinks or the covered version by Van Halen. Both versions feature simple yet catchy licks that are perfect for beginners, and they’ll have you playing along in no time!

Now, let’s dive into the main riff of the song. You can play this part using power chords, making it easier and more accessible for beginners. For The Kinks’ version, you’ll start at the second fret on the sixth string (low E) and slide up to the fifth fret in a rhythm that resembles a shuffle. Repeat this pattern a few times and then move up to the fifth and seventh frets, followed by the seventh and ninth frets. Don’t worry, you’re doing great!

Van Halen’s version is pretty similar to The Kinks, but with a little extra flavor to it. Instead of sliding up to the fifth fret, you’ll start at the third fret on the sixth string (low E) and play the power chord. Then, move up to the fifth and seventh frets, just like in the original. And, to give it that true Van Halen feel, try adding some palm muting and a little distortion to your guitar tone!

Remember, practice makes perfect! Here’s a quick recap of the main riff for each version:

• The Kinks:
  
  • Power chords: 2nd-5th, 5th-7th, 7th-9th frets
• Van Halen:
  
  • Power chords: 3rd, 5th-7th frets
  • Palm muting and distortion for added flavor

And that’s it! Now you have a solid foundation for playing “You Really Got Me.” Keep practicing the licks and soon enough, you’ll master this classic song and be on your way to tackling other great guitar-driven tunes. Just remember to have fun and enjoy the learning process!

Sweet Child O’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses

Have you ever wanted to play the iconic introduction to “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses on your guitar? The famous riff, written by Slash, is a perfect example of an easy guitar lick for beginners. So, let’s break it down!

First things first, you’ll need to tune your guitar to the following:

• 6th string: Eb
• 5th string: Ab
• 4th string: Db
• 3rd string: Gb
• 2nd string: Bb
• 1st string: Eb

Now, let’s dive into the notes. The lick is based on the D Mixolydian scale, and it’s played on the 12th and 15th frets of the B and e strings. Here’s a simplified version of the intro:

• Start by plucking the 15th fret on the B string with your ring finger.
• Then, play the 14th fret on the G string with your middle finger.
• Move to the 12th fret on the G string with your index finger, and then back to the 15th fret on the B string.

Repeat this pattern for the intro, and remember to practice it at a slow pace. Once you’ve mastered the lick, you can speed it up and add in the other elements, like string skipping and slides.

Now that you have the intro down, let’s briefly discuss the chords in the verses. The song mainly uses the following chords:

• D (xx0232)
• Cadd9 (x32030)
• G (320033)

Play around with these chords and transitions to get a feel for the song’s rhythm. Once you’re comfortable, try playing along with the recording to see how you measure up.

And there you have it! By mastering this simple intro and the basic chords, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your friends with your rendition of “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses. Happy playing!

La Grange by ZZ Top

Now let’s talk about a classic blues-rock tune, “La Grange” by ZZ Top. This song is a perfect example for its signature catchy riff and accessible playing style.

The main riff of “La Grange” revolves around the A minor pentatonic scale. To kick off your journey, let’s learn this scale. Jump into these fretboard positions:

• 5th fret, 6th string (E)
• 8th fret, 6th string (E)
• 5th fret, 5th string (A)
• 7th fret, 5th string (A)
• 5th fret, 4th string (D)
• 7th fret, 4th string (D)

Having fun yet? Don’t worry; we’re just getting started. Now let’s dive into the main riff. The riff’s foundation is that A string (5th fret, 5th string). Here are the key notes:

1. 5th fret, 5th string (A)
2. 7th fret, 6th string (B)
3. 5th fret, 4th string (D)
4. 7th fret, 5th string (E)
5. 5th fret, 5th string (A)

To make it sound like the song, connect these notes using palm muting and alternate picking to give it the right groove.

The next part of the riff involves a little hammer-on and pull-off action on the D string. Check out how it flows:

1. Hammer-on from 5th to 7th fret (D to E) on the 4th string
2. Pull-off from 7th to 5th fret (E to D) on the 4th string
3. 7th fret on the 5th string (E)
4. 5th fret on the 4th string (D)

Make sure to practice the hammer-ons and pull-offs separately to nail the technique. And remember, practice makes perfect!

And there you have it – an easy guitar lick from the iconic “La Grange” by ZZ Top. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be impressing all your friends with your newfound guitar skills. Good luck, and have fun playing!

Peter Gunn Theme by Henry Mancini

You might find the Peter Gunn Theme familiar. It’s been featured in numerous TV shows, films, and commercials since its creation in 1958 by Henry Mancini. A catchy riff played on electric guitar; it’s an ideal choice for those looking to learn some easy guitar licks.

First, let’s break down the main riff of the Peter Gunn Theme. The riff consists of a repeating pattern, so once you learn the pattern, you can play it repeatedly.

Here’s the pattern you need:

As you can see, the riff is primarily played on the A and D strings. To get started, place your index finger on the second fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the fifth fret of the same string. With your picking hand, start by picking the open A string, followed by the second fret, and then the fifth fret. Practice this until you feel comfortable with it.

Next, move your index finger to the second fret of the D string, and your ring finger to the fourth fret. Pick the second fret, the fourth fret, and then back to the second fret. To complete the main pattern, return to the A string and repeat the first three notes you learned.

To add variety, try playing the same riff in different positions on the fretboard, or incorporating slides, bends, or vibrato. The more you practice, the smoother and more natural the riff will become.

So put on your best spy outfit, grab your guitar, and get ready to master the iconic Peter Gunn Theme by Henry Mancini. Before you know it, you’ll be impressing friends and family with this classic tune.

House of the Rising Sun by The Animals

This classic song features a simple yet memorable fingerpicking pattern that you’ll quickly master. Let’s dive right in!

First, let’s get your fingers ready to play. Familiarize yourself with Am, C, D, F, and E chords. These chords are the backbone of the song. Once you’ve got them down, it’s time for the fingerpicking magic.

The pattern you’ll be using throughout “House of the Rising Sun” includes picking the root note of each chord with your thumb and then plucking the strings downwards. Here’s the pattern using the Am chord as an example:

String	5	4	3	2	1
Finger	T	I	M	A	M

T = Thumb, I = Index, M = Middle, A = Ring

As you can see, your thumb plays an important role in leading this pattern. Practice this pattern with all the chords; soon enough, you’ll have the foundation of “House of the Rising Sun” down.

Now that you’re familiar with the picking pattern, let’s combine it with the chords progression. The verse and chorus share the same progression:

Am – C – D – F – Am – E – Am – E

As you play through each chord, keep that fingerpicking pattern consistent. And remember, practice makes perfect! Don’t get discouraged if you can’t nail it right away; just keep trying, and soon, you’ll be playing “House of the Rising Sun” like a pro. Happy strumming!

Black Dog by Led Zeppelin

Have you ever wanted to play the iconic opening riff from Led Zeppelin’s “Black Dog”? It’s easier than you think and a great way to impress your friends! Let’s dive in and learn this classic rock lick.

To start, make sure your guitar is in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). Now, let’s break down the riff into smaller parts:

• Begin with the first part by playing the A string open, then the D string at the 7th fret followed by the A string at the 5th fret.
• Next, play the D string at the 5th fret and quickly slide it up to the 7th fret, then play the A string open again.
• Finish the first part by playing the D string at the 7th fret followed by a quick hammer-on and pull-off from the 5th to the 7th and back to the 5th fret on the A string.

Moving on to the second part of the riff:

• Play the E string open, then the A string at the 5th fret followed by the E string at the 3rd fret.
• Follow that up by playing the A string at the 3rd fret and quickly sliding it up to the 5th fret, then play the E string open again.
• End the second part with the A string at the 5th fret followed by a quick hammer-on and pull-off from the 3rd to the 5th and back to the 3rd fret on the E string.

When you’ve mastered each part separately, it’s time to put them together. Start by playing the first part, then immediately transition to the second part. After playing the second part, go back to the first part and repeat the entire sequence again.

And there you have it! Practice this riff slowly at first, and gradually build up speed as you become more comfortable playing the notes. Remember, consistency is key, so make sure to practice regularly. Soon you’ll be rocking out to “Black Dog” like a pro! Enjoy playing this fun and easy guitar lick.

Breaking the Law by Judas Priest

This classic riff is a perfect introduction to easy guitar licks because of its simplicity and catchy tune. Let’s dive right in and have you rocking out in no time!

To start, it’s important to know the song is in the key of E. The main riff primarily consists of power chords on the low E string. To play this, you’ll be using three power chords – E5, G5, and A5.

E5:  0 0 0  0

G5:  3 3 3  3

A5:  5 5 5  5

The progression goes like this: E5 – E5 – G5 – A5. To get the feel of the song, you should use downstrokes throughout and make use of palm muting on the E5 power chord. This will give you that crunchy sound! Here’s the tab for the main riff:

Once you’ve got that nailed, it’s time to move on to the chorus. The chords for the chorus are B5, A5, and E5, played in this order:

The chorus riff is simple and goes like this:

Now that you’ve learned the main riff and chorus, try playing along with the song to get the right feel and timing. You’ll be breaking the law on your guitar in no time! Remember to keep practicing and, most importantly, have fun with it. Happy jamming!

Wipe Out by The Surfaris

Now, let’s dive into “Wipe Out” by The Surfaris, a classic surf rock hit from 1963. It’s not only a fantastic tune that you’ll love playing, but also features beginner-friendly licks.

Introduction: The main signature riff of “Wipe Out” is the most recognizable part; luckily, it’s easy. To start, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string (D) and your ring finger on the 4th fret of the 3rd string (G). This is a simple power chord shape. First, you’ll be playing the open 5th string (A) and then alternating between the power chord (D and G strings) and the open 5th string.

Breakdown: Here’s a simple interpretation of the main riff:

Practice this riff with a metronome to get a feel for the distinctive syncopated rhythm. Once you’ve nailed the timing, it’ll sound like you’re riding the waves!

Chorus: Don’t worry, the chorus is just as easy as the intro! You’ll need to switch to barre chords for this part, but don’t fear – it’s a great opportunity to practice some essential chord shapes. The chords in the chorus are: F (1st fret, 6th string root), Bb (1st fret, 5th string root), and C (3rd fret, 5th string root).

The progression is pretty simple:

• F – Bb – C – Bb (x2)
• F – C – Bb (x2)

As you strum these chords (down-up strums work best), try to emulate the energetic rhythm from the original song.

And voilà! In no time, you’ll be playing “Wipe Out” by The Surfaris. Keep practicing, and don’t forget to have fun while you’re at it. Happy playing!

Pretty Woman by Roy Orbison

Next, let’s dive into an iconic riff from Roy Orbison that’ll surely impress your friends and improve your guitar skills.

To start, we’ll be focusing on the main hook of Pretty Woman. This easy lick is played on the lower strings of your guitar, so grab your pick and let’s get going! The lick consists of a few notes and has a catchy rhythm, making it a great introduction to lead playing:

This riff is played at the beginning of the song and is a defining feature of Pretty Woman. Once you’ve got the hang of the notes, try playing with the recording to capture the feel.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Take your time and work on playing this riff smoothly and consistently. You’ll likely find that the lick flows more naturally as you get more comfortable. This is a fantastic skill, as it’ll open up doors to so many more catchy licks for you to learn.

So, what are you waiting for? Pick up that guitar and start rocking out to Roy Orbison’s Pretty Woman! You’ll be amazed at how quickly your fingers will adapt to this iconic riff. Have fun and keep practicing!

Ticket to Ride by The Beatles

The Beatles’ “Ticket to Ride” has a catchy and easy-to-learn riff that we’ll break down here. Ready to learn? Let’s go!

First off, tune your guitar. The song’s tuning is in standard E. Now, let’s look at the basic chords you’ll need for this lick:

• C major (x32010)
• D major (xx0232)
• A minor (x02210)

Got these chords down? Great! The riff is based on a simple strumming pattern, as follows:

C – D – Am

For the intro and verse, you’ll play this pattern four times, focusing mainly on the top strings (E, A, and D). In each chord, add a bit of palm muting to give it that iconic rhythm we all know and love (trust us, it’ll sound amazing).

For the chorus, move from C major to D major, and back to A minor. Strum with a bit more vigor to liven things up. You’ll repeat this progression twice, like this:

C – D – Am

C – D – Am

And there you have it, that’s the core of “Ticket to Ride” for you to practice. Do you feel the groove now? It’s an easy, yet rewarding guitar lick that strengthens your chord switching abilities and your strumming techniques.

Rock out and have fun playing “Ticket to Ride” by The Beatles. Remember: enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to make a few mistakes along the way. Happy strumming!

Bad to the Bone by George Thorogood

If you want to learn some easy guitar licks, why not start with the classic riff from “Bad to the Bone” by George Thorogood? This catchy and memorable lick is accessible for beginners and a great way to work on finger strength and coordination. Let’s dive into the basics of this riff, shall we?

To play the main riff, you’ll only need to utilize the bottom two strings of your guitar. This makes it a perfect choice for novices! Start by playing the open low E string, followed by a slide from the 2nd fret to the 4th fret on the same string. Next, strike the open A string, followed by a hammer-on from the 2nd to the 3rd fret on the A string.

Here’s a breakdown of the tabs for the riff:

Now that you know the basics, why not try playing along with the original song? This will help you get a feel for the rhythm and timing of the riff. And don’t be afraid to add your personal touch to it. Remember, the key to making any guitar lick your own is to experiment with different techniques and phrasings.

So, grab your guitar and start rocking out to “Bad to the Bone”! It’s a fun and easy way to get the hang of playing guitar licks, and it’s sure to impress your friends the next time you jam together. Good luck, and most importantly, enjoy the journey of learning and playing the guitar!

Secret Agent Man by Johnny Rivers

Looking to spice up your guitar playing with some snazzy licks? Johnny Rivers’ “Secret Agent Man” is packed with catchy guitar licks that you simply can’t resist. In just a few paragraphs, we’ll explore some of the main licks from this classic tune, designed especially for beginners like you. Ready? Let’s dive in!

Remember that legendary opening riff? It’s built around the E minor pentatonic scale and kicks off the tune with a strong and memorable statement. Wanna know a secret? To play this signature lick, start by sliding from the second to the fourth fret on the G string, and follow it up with plucking the third fret on the B string. Afterward, slide down from the fourth to the second fret on the G string and end by playing the open G string. Now try it out, and you’ll be one step closer to becoming a secret agent guitarist yourself!

But there’s more where that came from! The chorus of “Secret Agent Man” features a sneaky and stylish lick that uses double stops. Double stops are simply two-note chords that add a bit more complexity and depth to your playing. In this case, begin by plucking the second fret on the D and G strings simultaneously, then slide your fingers up to the fourth fret and play them again. Finish up by playing the second fret on the G and B strings together. It might be tricky at first, but you’ll get the hang of it soon enough.

One more thing: the bridge section of the song is worth learning, too. It’s a rapid-fire, action-packed series of single-note licks that will test your agility and finesse. Start by playing the open E string followed by the second fret, then slide up to the fourth and back to the second. Practice this quick burst and gradually increase your speed until you’re ready to tackle the entire bridge. It’s a challenge, but we know you’ve got this!

There you have it! You’re now equipped with some of the most iconic guitar licks from Johnny Rivers’ “Secret Agent Man.” Keep practicing and soon enough, you’ll be turning heads with your smooth, spy-like guitar skills.

Eye of the Tiger by Survivor

In this section, we’ll focus on the iconic and catchy “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor. Don’t worry, it’s not as intimidating as it might sound. This song is perfect for beginners like you!

First off, let’s break down the main riff. It’s based on the chords Am, G, Em, and F. The best part? These chords are all basic open chords that you’ve probably learned already! Here’s how the chords look when you play them:

• Am: X02210
• G: 320003
• Em: 022000
• F: 133211

Now that you have the chords, let’s talk about the rhythm. “Eye of the Tiger” is famous for its driving, syncopated rhythm. You’ll want to focus on palm muting on the downstrokes for that tight, punchy sound. Once you’ve got that down, practice emphasizing the upbeat of each chord, like this:

• Am: d (mute) U dU (mute)
• G: d (mute) U dU (mute)
• Em: d (mute) U dU (mute)
• F: d (mute) U dU (mute)

u – upstroke, dU – down-upstroke, (mute) – palm mute

Keep practicing this pattern; soon enough, you’ll be rocking out to “Eye of the Tiger”! But, why stop there? The song also features a catchy lead guitar melody that’s simple enough for beginners.

The lead guitar part mainly revolves around the A Minor Pentatonic Scale. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with this scale to help you play the melody more comfortably. Here’s the scale pattern on the 5th fret:

A Minor Pentatonic Scale

| E |—-|-5-|—|-8-|—|—-| | B |—-|-5-|—|-8-|—|—-| | G |—-|-5-|—|-7-|—|—-| | D |—-|-5-|—|-7-|—|—-| | A |—-|-5-|—|-7-|—|—-| | E |—-|-5-|—|-8-|—|—-|

With these chords, rhythm, and lead melody in your arsenal, you’re ready to conquer “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor and impress your friends and family. Remember, practice makes perfect, and don’t forget to have fun while you’re at it! Cheers to your guitar journey!

I Love Rock ‘n Roll by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts

Now let’s dive into “I Love Rock ‘n Roll” by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts. This classic tune is perfect for beginners, with its simple yet iconic riffs.

The main riff, which is played during the intro and chorus, uses power chords on the E, D, and A strings. You’ll be playing E5, D5, A5, and B5, making it quite straightforward. It goes like this:

Strumming is essential in capturing the feel of this song, so make sure to get into the groove. The rhythm pattern is down-down-up. Emphasize the downstroke on the first and the upstroke on the second.

Now, let’s move on to the pre-chorus. It’s a little more complex but still achievable for beginners. We’ll be using single-note lines on the low E string and power chords for the remaining section like this:

Remember to practice this part slowly at first and gradually increase your speed as you become comfortable.

As you can see, learning “I Love Rock ‘n Roll” is a fantastic way to get started with guitar. Remember to focus on staying relaxed and keeping a consistent tempo, so you can truly rock out and impress your friends. Happy playing!

Wild Thing by The Troggs

Hey, you have probably heard of “Wild Thing” by The Troggs, haven’t you? It’s a classic, easy to play, and catchy as well! Perfect for those of you looking to learn some easy guitar licks. Let’s dive right in!

First of all, grab your guitar and put a capo on the 2nd fret. It will make your life a whole lot easier. Trust me! Now, let’s look at the chords. The main chords in “Wild Thing” are A, D, and E. Simple, right? They are all major chords, and you can easily switch between them.

Here’s the basic chord progression throughout the song:

A – D – E – D

A – D – E – D

A – D – E – D

A – D – E – E

Now, let’s add a little spice to the mix. The Troggs used a straightforward strumming pattern that makes this song fun to play. Just strum each chord twice using downstrokes only. Yep, it’s that simple. If you want more details, here it is:

As for the lead part, you’re in for a treat. The iconic guitar riff is just as easy as the chords. Here’s the tab for it:

Try playing along with the song to get the hang of it. And remember, practice makes perfect! So there you have a few paragraphs on “Wild Thing” by The Troggs. Now, impress your friends with this classic, easy-to-play tune. Enjoy!

Mission Impossible Theme by Lalo Schifrin

Have you ever wanted to play the iconic Mission Impossible theme on your guitar? Well, you’re in luck! This section will briefly guide playing this catchy tune, composed by Lalo Schifrin, using easy guitar licks.

First, let’s learn the main riff. It’s quite simple and repetitive, which makes it great for beginners. The basic riff consists of the following notes: E, F#, G, F#, E, C, B. You can play these notes on your guitar’s low E and A strings. Start with the low E string, then move to A string, and back to E string:

• E string: E
• A string: F#, G, F#
• E string: E, C, B

Once you’ve got the hang of the main riff, it’s time to add some flair. You can spice up the theme by using slides, bends, and palm muting. For example, slide from the G to F# or bend the F# just a little for a bluesy effect.

Now, let’s move on to the harmony which complements the main riff. This harmony is based on octave shapes. Remember to keep your fingers in the same shape as you move between frets. Here’s the harmony in a nutshell:

• First position: B on 7th fret of E string, F# on 9th fret of A string
• Second position: C on 8th fret of E string, G on 10th fret of A string
• Third position: E on 7th fret of A string, B on 9th fret of D string
• Fourth position: F# on 9th fret of A string, C# on 11th fret of D string

To play the harmony properly, move between these positions rhythmically while following the rhythm of the main riff. You’re now well on your way to mastering the Mission Impossible theme!

Remember, practice makes perfect. Keep at it, take your time, and soon you’ll have the Mission Impossible theme in your repertoire, impressing your friends with your guitar skills.

Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne

This iconic riff from Randy Rhoads is catchy and a good introduction to rock guitar playing. Let’s dive right in!

First, make sure your guitar is in standard tuning (E, A, D, G, B, E). The main lick from Crazy Train is in the key of A minor, and it’s played at a moderately fast tempo. Don’t worry, we’ll break it down step by step.

First, let’s look at the notes in the lick:

Note	Fret	String
A	5th	6th
E	7th	5th
G	5th	4th
A	7th	4th

Here’s the pattern for your fingers:

1. Start by placing your index finger on the 5th fret of the 6th string (A).
2. With your ring finger, play the 7th fret of the 5th string (E).
3. Next, move your index finger to the 5th fret of the 4th string (G).
4. Finally, play the 7th fret on the same string (A) with your ring finger.

Now that you know how to play the notes, let’s work on the rhythm. The lick uses a mixture of eighth and sixteenth notes, creating an exciting rhythm. Try counting aloud while playing: “1 and-a 2 and 3 and 4 and.”

Remember to use alternate picking to make your playing more fluid. Start with a downstroke on the first note (A) and follow with an upstroke on the second note (E). Keep alternating as you play through the lick.

It might take some practice to get the rhythm and pick just right, but don’t give up! Once you feel comfortable playing the lick slowly, gradually increase your speed. Before you know it, you’ll play the Crazy Train riff like a pro!