50 Fun Songs to Play on Guitar (With Tabs + Videos
Learning to play a new musical instrument can be overwhelming at the beginning. Yet, there are so many mesmerizing songs to play, and that makes it all worth the time and effort.
This applies to all instruments, but especially the guitar. Whether you’re a newbie guitarist or a seasoned strummer, we’re here to help you fall in love with this beautiful instrument.
That’s why we rounded up 50 fun songs to play on guitar. From country songs to blues and rock, we have something from every genre to help you practice your skills and impress your family and friends.
Let’s get started.
“I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz
| Genre | Pop/Soft rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “I’m Yours” Tabs |
“I’m Yours” was released in 2008 and spent a whopping 76 weeks on Billboard’s Hot 100 music chart. One reason for its wide appeal is its infectious tune and playability.
The chords are made up of a simple four-chord progression G, D, E minor (Em), and C known as the ‘Axis of Awesome 4 Chords.’
“Wake Me Up When September Ends” by Green Day
| Genre | Alternative/Indie |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic/Electric |
| Tabs | “Wake Me Up When September Ends” Tabs |
This emotional, heart-wrenching song was written by Green Day’s songwriter, lead singer, and guitarist Billie Joe Armstrong. It deals with the death of his father when Billie was just 10 years old. Then, in 2001, the song was used to commemorate the victims of the September 11 attacks.
The song is played using five chords: Em, C major, G major, D major, Cm, and Bm divided over three parts. The first is a flat-picked introduction followed by a heavier chord-driven section typically played on an electric guitar. The third and final section is the sweet-sounding acoustic solo.
“Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
| Genre | Country rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic/Electric |
| Tabs | “Sweet Home Alabama” Tabs |
This all-time classic rock song by Lynyrd Skynyrd was originally released in 1974. The secret to why it’s endured for so long is the riff played in the intro.
While the song’s chords, D, G, F, C, and Cadd9 are pretty easy to play, especially because they keep repeating themselves throughout the song. Yet, it’s that riff and solo that can be a bit of a challenge to play.
“Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses
| Genre | Hard rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Electric/Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Sweet Child O’ Mine” Tabs |
Learning how to play any Guns N’ Roses song is a dream for many budding guitarists, and “Sweet Child O’ Mine” is no exception. Who hasn’t dreamed of belting out smooth, powerful tunes on their guitar just like Slash?
Luckily, this song has all the right qualities to make it a beginner-friendly track. It consists of the five basic chords: C, G, A, D, Em, and Cadd9. Yet, if you’re looking for a bit of a challenge, you can practice the song’s famous intro riff.
“Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver
| Genre | Country |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate/Advanced |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Take Me Home, Country Roads” Tabs |
Written and sung by John Denver, this song has been a fan-favorite since its release in 1971. Thanks to its touching lyrics and heartfelt tunes, it’s able to hold on to its timeless appeal.
Another reason this song is so popular is its rich, melodious arrangement. While not overly complex, the number of chords in the intro is more than your average track. So, if you’re a beginner, you can skip the beginning and head right to the chords in the middle section.
“Stand By Me” by Ben E. King
| Genre | Rhythm and blues/Soul |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Stand By Me” Tabs |
“Stand by Me” was originally performed in the early 1960s by singer-songwriter Ben E. King. Until today, it’s considered one of the classics of pop and soul music thanks to its smooth chords that are perfect for beginner guitarists.
Yet, the inspiration behind it comes from the 1905 gospel hymn written by the Philadelphia minister Charles Albert Tindley. However, it was King’s version that became an all-time hit. In fact, it was the fourth most-played track of the 20th century.
“I’ll Be There for You” by Bon Jovi
| Genre | Alternative rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic/Electric |
| Tabs | “I’ll Be There for You” Tabs |
Released back in 1988, “I’ll Be There for You” is seen by some as a power ballad while others consider it as an over-sentimental track. Either way, this is an ideal tune to play on guitar for beginners and veterans alike.
Besides being fun and easy to play, the lyrics tug at the heartstrings of anyone dealing with a breakup. Despite being a bit melodramatic, it still has signs of hope.
“We Are the Champions” by Queen
| Genre | Hard rock/Pop |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic/Electric |
| Tabs | “We Are the Champions” Tabs |
The British rock band Queen released “We Are the Champions” in 1977 as part of their sixth album. It was written by the band’s lead singer Freddie Mercury to be a participation song for all types of sports, including the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
Yet, it’s not just the lyrics that call out for the audience to chant along, the music is super catchy as well. According to a group of researchers, this track consists of the right combination of cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and math that make it a perfect sing-along.
“Ramblin’ Man” by Allman Brothers Band
| Genre | Country rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Ramblin’ Man” Tabs |
“Ramblin’ Man” is the lead single on the rock band’s fourth album. It was written and performed by the group’s guitarist Dickey Betts. Over the years, Betts became the master of combining various styles into one unparalleled sound. He was called by The New York Times as ‘one of the great rock guitarists…’
The lyrics were inspired by the 1951 song by Hank Williams, which could be why it has more country than many of the band’s other tracks.
“Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers
| Genre | Rhythm and Blues/Folk rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Ain’t No Sunshine” Tabs |
Bill Withers got the inspiration for this song after watching Blake Edward’s iconic movie, Days of Wine and Roses. It quickly climbed the music charts, becoming Withers’ first hit song.
As you probably know, this song has no introduction. It just starts right away with the vocals, which was thought of as bad marketing at first. Nonetheless, it’s what gives this track its signature feel. It’s also one of the reasons why it’s super easy to play on the guitar.
“Don’t Think Twice It’s Alright” by Bob Dylan
| Genre | Folk rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Don’t Think Twice it’s Alright” Tabs |
Written by Bob Dylan in 1962, this track was released a year later on the album The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan. It marked his debut as a full-fledged songwriter.
This song contains some of the artist’s most complex writing ever. This could be why some believed that he wrote it in response to the Cuban Missile Crisis. Yet, the truth is he had written it a whole month before the historic event.
“Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan
| Genre | Rock/Folk rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” Tabs |
In 2016, the singer-songwriter Bob Dylan won the Nobel Prize for Literature for creating “new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition”. His love for the written word started when he changed his real name, Robert Zimmerman, after the renowned Welsh writer Dylan Thomas.
What differentiates Dylan from other performers is his extraordinary ability to put together masterful lyrics with soulful instrumentation. This song is a perfect example as it starts out with half a bar of G and D, followed by one bar of Am. Then, it goes back to half a bar of G, half a bar of D, then a full bar of C.
“The Man in Me” by Bob Dylan
| Genre | Folk rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “The Man in Me” Tabs |
This song was written and sung by Bob Dylan in 1970. The lyrics are meant to shed light on the narrator’s poor attempt at presenting himself in a positive light, but ends up making himself look pathetic and unworthy.
While the lyrics are pretty straightforward, the instrumentation is upbeat and lively. In fact, many believe that Dylan has never sounded as joyful and lighthearted as he does in the intro of that song, which makes it that much more fun to play.
“Leaving On a Jet Plane” by John Denver
| Genre | Rhythm and blues/Doo-wop |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Leaving On a Jet Plane” Tabs |
In 1966, singer-songwriter John Denver wrote and performed this song. Little did he know that it would be this debut tune that would catapult him to fame.
This touching and simple song is super easy and perfect for beginners as well as seasoned guitarists who love the classics. The lyrics are all about longing for your significant other, but it’s the simple instrumentation that makes this track so timeless.
“The Lion Sleeps Tonight” by The Tokens
| Genre | Rhythm and blues/Doo-wop |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” Tabs |
In 1961, the doo-wop group the Tokens released “The Lion Sleeps Tonight,” which quickly became a number-one hit. One reason for the track’s success is its ensemble singing, simple lyrics, and light instrumentation.
Yet, did you know that this song was originally in Zulu titled “Mbube?” It was written and composed by South African performer Solomon Linda before being translated and transformed into its current version.
“Wonderwall” by Oasis
| Genre | Alternative/Indie |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Wonderwall” Tabs |
“Wonderwall” is a single released on Oasis’ second album in 1995. Written by the rock band’s lead guitarist and singer Noel Gallagher, it talks about the importance of having someone you can trust in your life.
Yet, that friend is more imaginary than real, which makes the lyrics that much more melancholy. The music is inspired by George Harrison’s album Wonderwall Music, which he recorded for the 1968 movie titled “Wonderwall.”
“Don’t Fear The Reaper” by Blue Oyster Cult
| Genre | Hard rock/Psychedelic rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Electric |
| Tabs | “Don’t Fear the Reaper” Tabs |
This smash hit was written by lead guitarist Donald Roeser, also known as Buck Dharma. It’s known for its rich harmony and smooth melody that combines with the rock band’s mysticism.
For years, this track was rumored to be about suicide. However, Roeser wanted to write a song that focuses on the inevitability of death and how we shouldn’t fear it. While it may sound difficult to play, the arpeggiated chord progressions are pretty straightforward.
“My Best Friend’s Girl” by The Cars
| Genre | Rock/Pop |
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic/Electric |
| Tabs | “My Best Friend’s Girl” Tabs |
This song talks about the pain of a breakup. The singer isn’t just in agony over his recent relationship coming to an end, but also that his ex-girlfriend started dating his best friend after she broke up with him.
In spite of the mournful lyrics, the melody is actually pretty upbeat. It has a steady rhythm with handclaps and bright instrumentation and uses five familiar and easy-to-play chords: F, Bb, C, D, G, and A.
“Let It Go” by Def Leppard
| Genre | Rock |
| Difficulty | Intermediate/Advanced |
| Type of Guitar | Electric |
| Tabs | “Let It Go” Tabs |
“Let It Go” is a 1981 hit song from Def Leppard’s multi-platinum album High ‘n’ Dry. The song is a collaboration between most members of the band, and was written by songwriters and guitarists Pete Willis and Steve Clark along with lead singer Joe Elliott.
As the song title suggests, this track deals with holding on to apprehension, anger, and anxiety. The lyrics are a message of hope and encouragement to move forward and enjoy life to the fullest. Although it has a complex intro, numerous chords, and several solos, which can be tricky for beginners.
“Let Her Go” by Passenger
| Genre | Soft rock/Folk rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Let Her Go” Tabs |
Another song about letting go, the number-one pop single “Let Her Go” was released in 2012 first in Europe before making its debut in North America. The lyrics are all about the age-old dilemma of loving someone and the pain that comes with having to let them go. It also alludes to the idea of taking things for granted until it’s too late.
The chords are simple and easy to learn. Plus, it has a great sing-along chorus that makes it a fun song to play.
“Runnin Down a Dream” by Tom Petty
| Genre | Heartland rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Electric |
| Tabs | “Runnin Down a Dream” Tabs |
Released in 1989, this track was co-written by Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne, and Mike Campbell. Yet, it was Petty’s smooth riffs and rock stylings that made this song so iconic.
The idea for “Runnin Down a Dream” came from the time when Petty first met Elvis Presley. As a wannabe rocker, the meeting had a profound effect on the budding artist. It’s about moving forward and embracing all the possibilities life brings your way. And as we all know, every hopeful song has to have an upbeat, playable melody, which this one certainly has.
“Hotel California” by Eagles
| Genre | Rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner/Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Hotel California” Tabs |
If you’re looking for an iconic track to play on your guitar, this is it. “Hotel California” may have been released nearly 50 years ago, but its legendary guitar solo is considered one of the most memorable solos ever!
It’s incredibly exciting, suspenseful, and rhythmic. If you’re just starting out, you first need to grasp the basic rhythm structure and strumming pattern. Then, you can move on to the slightly more complex chord progressions through the verses and chorus, which include Am, E7, G, D, F, C, and Dm.
“You Give Love a Bad Name” by Bon Jovi
| Genre | Hard rock/Glam metal |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Electric/Acoustic |
| Tabs | “You Give Love a Bad Name” Tabs |
The electrifying solo in this song courtesy of superstar lead guitarist Richie Sambora is what every budding guitarist aspires to play. It’s one of the reasons why this track became such a defining part of the 1980s.
Not only that but “You Give Love a Bad Name” played a big role in setting Bon Jovi up as one of the top-selling rock bands of their generation. This sensational piece consists of various techniques, including palm muting, tapping, and string bending. So, it’s not the best for beginners, but with some practice, a seasoned guitarist can learn to play this unrivaled hit.
“Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne
| Genre | Heavy metal |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Electric/Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Crazy Train” Tabs |
After parting ways with the heavy metal band Black Sabbath, Ozzy Osborne chose “Crazy Train” for his debut solo performance. It has everything you’d want in a heavy metal song: high energy, spunky vocals, anti-war lyrics, and of course, a smashing guitar solo.
The exceptional guitar work is accredited to none other than the legendary Randy Roads. As a matter of fact, his solo on this track is considered one of the most memorable guitar solos of all time! Learning to play this will give you a chance to familiarize yourself with Rhoad’s unequaled playing style.
“Welcome to the Jungle” by Guns N’ Roses
| Genre | Heavy metal/Hard rock |
| Difficulty | Intermediate/Advanced |
| Type of Guitar | Electric |
| Tabs | “Welcome to the Jungle” Tabs |
Another Guns N’ Roses hit, “Welcome to the Jungle” was released in 1987. Since then, it’s been featured on numerous lists as one of the greatest rock/metal songs ever recorded.
It deals with all the difficulties and excitement of living in the urban ‘jungle.’ The band’s lead vocalist, Axl Rose, wrote the lyrics while visiting one of his friends in Seattle. Learning to play this track is fun and feels great. Yet, because it has multiple solos, the main riff, and a full intro, it can be challenging to learn.
“Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison
| Genre | Pop rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Brown Eyed Girl” Tabs |
“Brown Eyed Girl” was written by Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison in 1967. Originally titled “Brown Skinned Girl,” it talks about the highs and lows of an interracial relationship. However, Morrison changed the title to make it more suitable for the radio.
To this day, it’s one of the most popular tunes. Thanks to its four minor chords, G, C, D, and Em, it’s also one of the easiest to play.
“Horse with No Name” by America
| Genre | Country rock/Folk rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Horse with No Name” Tabs |
The folk rock band America first released their first and more successful single hit “Horse with No Name” in the early 1970s. Inspired by a Salvador Dali painting, it was originally called “Desert Song” before British singer-songwriter and guitarist Dewey Bunnell changed it.
Its catchy, upbeat melody makes it relatively easy to play on the guitar. All you need is to repeat two open chords for most of the song: Em and D6/9.
“Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin
| Genre | Hard rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Stairway to Heaven” Tabs |
Released in 1971, “Stairway to Heaven” is regarded as one of the greatest rock songs of all time. It was written and composed by the group’s lead singer Robert Plant and guitarist Jimmy Page.
The track is a reminder to live life to the fullest and stop being consumed by material possessions. The melody is deceptively simple, but many of the solo sections can be a bit challenging to master.
“Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac
| Genre | Folk rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Landslide” Tabs |
Released in 1975, “Landslide” was written by the band’s singer-songwriter Stevie Nicks. Getting inspiration for the song on a visit to Aspen, Colorado, Nicks says the song alludes to the problems we’re forced to face in life.
The instrumentation is easy to follow along. Yet, recreating that landslide sound can be more complicated to get the hang of.
“Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd
| Genre | Progressive rock/Acoustic rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate/Advanced |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Wish You Were Here” Tabs |
Without a doubt, “Wish You Were Here” is one of the most recognizable songs ever recorded. Released in 1975 as part of the British rock band Pink Floyd’s ninth album as a tribute to the band’s chief songwriter, Syd Barrett, who was forced to leave the group in 1968 because of his heavy drug use.
It might not contain the complexities of other songs thanks to its simple chord progression. However, it’s not the easiest to learn because of its unique picking pattern. So, if you’re looking for a challenge, this is it!
“Blackbird” by The Beatles
| Genre | Alternative/Indie/Rock/Pop |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Blackbird” Tabs |
Written by Paul McCartney, “Blackbird” was released in 1968 as part of The Beatles’ double album called the White Album. It’s one of the few McCartney’s rare solo performances, and you can even hear his foot tapping to help him keep time.
McCartney got the inspiration for the music after hearing the call of blackbirds in India. The lyrics, on the other hand, are meant to be a message in support of the Black Power movement during the 1960s.
“Yesterday” by The Beatles
| Genre | Rock/Pop |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate/Advanced |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Yesterday” Tabs |
Written by Paul McCartney, “Yesterday” was released on their 1965 album Help!, which reached the United States later that same year.
The wistful lyrics are about a breakup and the feeling of nostalgia, and the music is equally melancholy with an arrangement that drives home the air of sadness. The structure of the track is deceptively simple because we only hear McCartney playing his guitar, but it needs a bit of practice to master.
“Here Comes The Sun” by The Beatles
| Genre | Pop rock/Folk-pop |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate/Advanced |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Here Comes the Sun” Tabs |
Iconic, classic, and melodious are just a few ways to describe this track. It’s also fun, upbeat, and just a great song!
As for playing on the guitar, it can be a bit tricky to follow along. The strumming is pretty straightforward, but it becomes more challenging near the end of the chorus. Yet, with some patience and lots of practice, you’ll be able to grasp the song’s complex chord progressions, time signatures, and rhythm patterns.
“All Along the Watchtower” by Jimi Hendrix
| Genre | Folk rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “All Along the Watchtower” Tabs |
Released in 1967, “All Along the Watchtower” revolves around the age-old conflict between two societal opposites: a joker and a thief. Considered to be the ignorance and sins of man, they talk of an impending doom but Hendrix doesn’t really spell it out. So, the listeners are left to create their own version of what will take place.
Most of Hendrix’s songs are complex, especially the solo sections. So, if you’re looking to boost your finger-picking and strumming skills, you’re in for a treat with this track.
“Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix
| Genre | Classic rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate/Advanced |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Purple Haze” Tabs |
At first glance, “Purple Haze” can be meant to describe one of the singer’s psychedelic trips. Although according to Hendrix, the words for this song are based on a dream he’d had after reading a science fiction novel.
Released in 1967, it shot up the music charts, quickly becoming one of his best-known songs. While it’s pretty fun to listen to, playing it can be challenging because of its fast licks and tricky chord progressions.
“Little Wing” by Jimi Hendrix
| Genre | Classic Rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Little Wing” Tabs |
Another widely popular hit by Jimi Hendrix, “Little Wing” is all about cheering on the underdog. It’s a hopeful reminder that each one of us has the power to make a difference in this world.
The tune is also upbeat and lively, while still being quite tricky as are most of Hendrix’s pieces. Yet, it’s still a fun song to play if you’re up for the challenge.
“Sunshine of Your Love” by Cream
| Genre | Blues rock/Hard rock |
| Difficulty | Intermediate/Advanced |
| Type of Guitar | Electric/Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Sunshine of Your Love” Tabs |
The 1967 “Sunshine of Your Love” is the collaboration of three uniquely gifted musicians who made up the British rock band Cream: Eric Clapton, John Bruce, and Ginger Baker.
Even though the band broke up a year later due to growing tensions between Bruce and Baker, this song remains one of their best-known. This could be because, as the lead guitarist, Clapton does an amazing job playing those blues riffs. If you’re a bit more experienced, learning them will certainly be worth the time and effort.
“White Room” by Cream
| Genre | Blues rock/Hard rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “White Room” Tabs |
“White Room” was written by Pete Brown, a friend of the Cream bass player Jack Bruce. The song symbolizes hopelessness, despair, and depression, but it’s not as many suspect, a mental health institution.
Even though the lyrics are somber, the melody is smooth and flowing. The chord progressions are simple enough, but there’s a good deal of finger-picking, which needs some strong fingers and lots of practice.
“Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton
| Genre | Soft rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Type of Guitar | Electric |
| Tabs | “Tears in Heaven” Tabs |
This best-selling song was written by Eric Clapton and Will Jennings. The touching lyrics are about the tragic death of Clapton’s four-year-old son.
The melody tugs at listeners’ hearts with its moving instrumentation and slow tempo. Still, there are several chord changes and finger-picking techniques that can be challenging to maneuver.
“Layla” by Eric Clapton
| Genre | Rock |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate/Advanced |
| Type of Guitar | Electric/Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Layla” Tabs |
You may be surprised to know that the original version of “Layla” was released in 1970 by Derek and the Dominos with Eric Clapton as the lead singer and guitarist.
The song was inspired by Eric Clapton’s unrequited love for his close friend’s wife whom he later married. It consists of numerous chord changes even though the track is in the basic D minor scale. Yet, the intro chords are F major scale, which includes Dm, Bb, C, and Dm.
“Tangerine” by Led Zeppelin
| Genre | Folk rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Tangerine” Tabs |
“Tangerine” is one of Led Zeppelin’s few ballads and most popular acoustic songs. It might not seem like it from the fruity title, but this track is about finding your long-lost love.
The iconic track was written and performed by Jimmy Page who dedicated it to his then-girlfriend. It was released in 1970 and was used along with four other Led Zeppelin songs in the movie Almost Famous. The chords in this heartfelt ballad are Ab, Gb, Db, and B. So, learning to play it is fun and easy for beginners and seasoned guitarists alike.
“Hey Joe” by Jimi Hendrix
| Genre | Classic rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Electric |
| Tabs | “Hey Joe” Tabs |
It was “Hey Joe” that catapulted Jimi Hendrix to fame in the UK at the end of the 1960s. That’s why many are surprised when they learn that it’s not actually his song at all. This track was written by singer Billy Roberts nearly a decade earlier. Even though he had copyrighted the song in 1962, he never released it.
Fast forward several years and a half dozen artists later, it was Hendrix that turned it into a success. With its slow instrumentation, bluesy melody, and a basic chord progression of F, C, G, D, and A, it’s become a favorite piece to play for many guitarists.
“The Wind Cries Mary” by Jimi Hendrix
| Genre | Classic rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Electric |
| Tabs | “The Wind Cries Mary” Tabs |
Unlike “Hey Joe,” this 1969 rock ballad was written by Hendrix himself after an argument with his girlfriend. Hendrix is known for his ability to create dynamic sounds and expand the boundaries of what was considered acceptable at the time by mixing elements of jazz, blues, rock, and soul.
Despite having several guitar solos and licks, they repeat themselves throughout the song. That’s why many consider it a great song to learn as a beginner.
“Redemption Song” by Bob Marley
| Genre | Reggae/Folk music |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Redemption Song” Tabs |
Bob Marley wrote and performed this song in 1980 not knowing it would be his last recording before he passed away from melanoma skin cancer. Marley always chose his lyrics carefully, but with this track, he made it a point to appeal to his listeners’ empathy and compassion.
Despite the emotionally charged lyrics, the instrumentation is acoustic-led in Marley’s usual style of reggae beats. The chord progressions are also pretty simple, making this track perfect for beginners.
“No Woman No Cry” by Bob Marley
| Genre | Reggae |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “No Woman No Cry” Tabs |
“No Woman No Cry” is possibly the most famous and most misunderstood of Bob Marley’s songs. Written by the Jamaican songwriter Vincent Ford, it was released in 1974.
Outside of Jamaica, many listeners have taken the song to mean that if there are no women, then there’s no reason to cry. Yet, the real meaning of the song is actually a message for women, encouraging them to keep their heads raised and stay strong.
“Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley
| Genre | Reggae |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Three Little Birds” Tabs |
Another one of Bob Marley and the Wailers’ well-known hits, “Three Little Birds” was the fourth track on their 1977 album titled Exodus. Even though the band split up in 1973, Marley continued to release songs under their original name.
Written by Marley himself, it’s a message of love, hope, and letting your worries float away. It was actually inspired by the birds that used to flutter near the singer’s home.
“Proud Mary” by Creedence Clearwater Revival
| Genre | Rhythm and blues/Soul |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Proud Mary” Tabs |
Creedence Clearwater Revival, or CCR for short, was an aspiring American rock band during the 1960s and 1970s. Still, the list of great tracks and unforgettable hits recorded by this band is pretty impressive.
Released on their second album Bayou Country, “Proud Mary” quickly reached the number 2 spot on Billboard’s Hot 100 in 1969. Written by the band’s lead singer-songwriter, John Fogerty, it talks about leaving behind the hectic life in the city for a simpler way of life.
“Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival
| Genre | Rock/Folk |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Electric/Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Bad Moon Rising” Tabs |
Written by John Fogerty in 1969, the hit “Bad Moon Rising” evokes meanings of civil discord and the Vietnam War. Yet, Fogerty never actually comes out and says it directly.
The track talks about the singer being down on his luck. This leads to a meeting with the Devil who convinces him to sell his soul. Despite the bleak lyrics, the music is pretty upbeat. It makes for some great practice for budding guitarists.
“Down on the Corner” by Creedence Clearwater Revival
| Genre | Rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Down on the Corner” Tabs |
“Down on the Corner” is another hit written by John Fogerty. With its lighthearted melody and ‘feel-good’ message, the track quickly became an international success.
Inspired by a Disney advertisement, the lyrics tell the story of a fictional street band called Willy and the Poor Boys that performed on the corner to cheer people up. Even though all they got was nickels, they still had the time of their lives.
“Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” by Creedence Clearwater Revival
| Genre | Country rock |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type of Guitar | Acoustic |
| Tabs | “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” Tabs |
Many wrongly assume that the lyrics are about the Vietnam War. However, it turns out that the lyrics revolve around something much closer to the songwriter’s heart: the impending breakup of the group.
Even though the track may be emotionally charged, the melody is smooth and catchy. Plus, the strumming patterns and chords are easy enough to learn, which is why it’s often recommended for beginner guitarists.
