10 popular songs every beginner guitarist should learn

Jul 24, 2023

Introduction

Learning to play the guitar can be an exciting and rewarding journey. As a beginner guitarist, it's important to start with songs that are both enjoyable and relatively easy to play. These popular songs will not only help you develop your skills but also keep you motivated along the way. So, grab your guitar and let's dive into the top 10 songs every beginner guitarist should learn!

1. "Wonderwall" by Oasis

One of the most iconic songs for beginner guitarists, "Wonderwall" by Oasis is a timeless classic. The chord progression is relatively simple, making it a great starting point for beginners. This song will help you practice strumming and switching between chords smoothly.

wonderwall guitar

2. "Horse with No Name" by America

If you're looking for a song with a laid-back vibe, "Horse with No Name" is a perfect choice. With just two chords throughout the entire song, it's an excellent opportunity to practice your finger placement and work on your rhythm.

3. "Knockin' on Heaven's Door" by Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan's "Knockin' on Heaven's Door" is a must-learn for any beginner guitarist. This song introduces you to basic chords and strumming patterns while allowing you to experiment with dynamics and expression. It's a great song to showcase your progress as you improve.

bob dylan guitar

4. "Wish You Were Here" by Pink Floyd

"Wish You Were Here" is a beautiful song that combines acoustic guitar and heartfelt lyrics. It's a great opportunity to practice fingerpicking and learn more complex chord shapes. As you master this song, you'll gain confidence in your playing and develop a deeper understanding of music.

5. "Brown Eyed Girl" by Van Morrison

With its catchy melody and simple chord progression, "Brown Eyed Girl" is a crowd-pleaser that every beginner guitarist should learn. This song will help you improve your strumming technique and get comfortable with playing in different keys.

van morrison guitar

6. "I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz

"I'm Yours" is a feel-good song that's perfect for beginners. Its upbeat tempo and easy-to-follow chord progression make it a joy to play. This song will help you practice your fingerpicking and strumming techniques while keeping your spirits high.

7. "Hey There Delilah" by Plain White T's

If you're a fan of acoustic ballads, "Hey There Delilah" is a fantastic choice. This song will help you develop your fingerpicking skills and learn to play arpeggios. It's a great song to impress your friends and showcase your dedication to the guitar.

plain white ts guitar

8. "House of the Rising Sun" by The Animals

The haunting melody of "House of the Rising Sun" is instantly recognizable and a favorite among beginner guitarists. This song will introduce you to fingerstyle playing and help you master barre chords. As you progress, you'll feel a sense of accomplishment when you can play this classic tune.

9. "Sweet Home Alabama" by Lynyrd Skynyrd

"Sweet Home Alabama" is an iconic rock anthem that's fun to play and sing along to. This song will help you improve your strumming technique and teach you how to incorporate power chords into your playing. It's a great song to jam with friends and get the crowd moving.

lynyrd skynyrd guitar

10. "Blowin' in the Wind" by Bob Dylan

We couldn't resist including another Bob Dylan classic on this list. "Blowin' in the Wind" is a folk song with a powerful message. It will help you practice your strumming and chord transitions while immersing yourself in the beauty of Dylan's songwriting.

Conclusion

Learning to play the guitar takes time and dedication, but with the right songs, it can be an enjoyable experience. These 10 popular songs are ideal for beginner guitarists, providing a solid foundation for your musical journey. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep strumming and enjoy the process of mastering these timeless tunes!