Learning to play the guitar can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and at LEARNS.EDU.VN, we believe everyone can learn. Starting with the easiest songs makes the process enjoyable and boosts your confidence. This article explores some of the simplest songs to learn on guitar, providing you with a solid foundation to build your musical journey. Whether you’re into pop, rock, or country, you’ll find something here to get you strumming and singing along in no time.
1. Why Start with Easy Songs on Guitar?
Learning guitar can feel overwhelming at first, but starting with simpler songs offers several key advantages.
1.1. Building Confidence
Mastering a song quickly provides a sense of accomplishment, motivating you to continue learning. At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we emphasize the importance of setting achievable goals to maintain enthusiasm.
1.2. Developing Basic Skills
Easy songs typically involve basic chords and strumming patterns, which are essential for developing fundamental guitar skills. Consistent practice of these basics, as taught at LEARNS.EDU.VN, is crucial for long-term progress.
1.3. Avoiding Frustration
Jumping into complex pieces too soon can lead to frustration and discouragement. Starting with manageable material, as recommended by educational experts at LEARNS.EDU.VN, makes the learning process more enjoyable.
1.4. Improving Rhythm and Timing
Playing simple songs helps you develop a sense of rhythm and timing, vital for any musician. LEARNS.EDU.VN offers resources to improve your rhythm through exercises and tutorials.
1.5. Understanding Chord Progressions
Easy songs often use common chord progressions, helping you understand how chords work together to create music. LEARNS.EDU.VN provides in-depth explanations of chord progressions to enhance your musical understanding.
2. Essential Chords for Beginner Guitarists
Before diving into specific songs, it’s essential to learn a few basic chords. These chords form the foundation for many easy songs and will help you progress quickly.
2.1. E Major
The E major chord is one of the first chords most guitarists learn. It’s relatively easy to finger and sounds great.
How to Play:
- Place your index finger on the 3rd string (G string) at the 1st fret.
- Place your middle finger on the 5th string (A string) at the 2nd fret.
- Place your ring finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 2nd fret.
- Strum all six strings.
2.2. A Major
The A major chord is another fundamental chord that’s easy to learn and use in many songs.
How to Play:
- Place your index, middle, and ring fingers on the 2nd fret of the 4th (D), 3rd (G), and 2nd (B) strings, respectively.
- Strum the top five strings, avoiding the 6th string (low E).
2.3. D Major
D major is a versatile chord that’s used in a wide variety of songs.
How to Play:
- Place your index finger on the 3rd string (G string) at the 2nd fret.
- Place your middle finger on the 1st string (high E string) at the 2nd fret.
- Place your ring finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 3rd fret.
- Strum the bottom four strings.
2.4. G Major
The G major chord can be a bit tricky at first, but with practice, it becomes second nature.
How to Play:
- Place your middle finger on the 6th string (low E string) at the 3rd fret.
- Place your index finger on the 5th string (A string) at the 2nd fret.
- Place your ring finger on the 1st string (high E string) at the 3rd fret.
- Strum all six strings.
2.5. C Major
C major is a common chord used in many popular songs.
How to Play:
- Place your middle finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 2nd fret.
- Place your index finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 1st fret.
- Place your ring finger on the 5th string (A string) at the 3rd fret.
- Strum the bottom five strings, avoiding the 6th string (low E).
2.6. D Minor
The D minor chord adds a touch of melancholy and is a great addition to your chord vocabulary.
How to Play:
- Place your index finger on the 1st string (high E string) at the 1st fret.
- Place your middle finger on the 3rd string (G string) at the 2nd fret.
- Place your ring finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 3rd fret.
- Strum the bottom four strings.
2.7. E Minor
E minor is a simple and commonly used minor chord.
How to Play:
- Place your middle finger on the 5th string (A string) at the 2nd fret.
- Place your ring finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 2nd fret.
- Strum all six strings.
2.8. A Minor
The A minor chord is a versatile minor chord used in many genres.
How to Play:
- Place your index finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 1st fret.
- Place your middle finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 2nd fret.
- Place your ring finger on the 3rd string (G string) at the 2nd fret.
- Strum the top five strings, avoiding the 6th string (low E).
3. Top 20 Easiest Songs to Learn on Guitar
Here are 20 of the easiest songs to learn on guitar, perfect for beginners looking to start their musical journey.
3.1. “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan
“Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” is a classic song known for its simple chord progression and heartfelt lyrics. The song typically involves three main chords: G, D, and Am (A minor). The chord progression is repetitive and easy to memorize, making it ideal for beginners. This song is also versatile, allowing for different strumming patterns and tempos to suit individual styles. You can find detailed tutorials on this song at LEARNS.EDU.VN, including tips on transitioning between chords smoothly.
Chords Used: G, D, Am
3.2. “Let It Be” by The Beatles
“Let It Be” is a timeless ballad that offers a comforting message and a manageable chord progression for novice guitarists. The main chords include Am, G, C, and F. While the F chord can be challenging for beginners, there are simplified versions that make it easier to play. The song’s slow tempo allows learners to practice chord changes at a comfortable pace, enhancing accuracy and fluidity. LEARNS.EDU.VN provides various resources, including chord diagrams and strumming patterns, to help you master this classic tune.
Chords Used: Am, G, C, F
3.3. “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen
“Hallelujah” is celebrated for its emotional depth and relatively simple structure. The song primarily uses four chords: G, D, Em (E minor), and C. The chord progression is repeated throughout most of the song, making it easier to memorize. Although the fingerpicking style can be challenging, beginners can start with basic strumming to get a feel for the song before attempting more intricate patterns. LEARNS.EDU.VN offers comprehensive lessons on fingerpicking techniques and chord transitions for “Hallelujah.”
Chords Used: G, D, Em, C
3.4. “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley
“Three Little Birds” is an uplifting reggae song with a simple and repetitive chord structure, making it perfect for beginner guitarists. The song features three main chords: A, D, and E. The steady, rhythmic strumming pattern is easy to learn and play along with. This song is excellent for practicing smooth chord transitions and developing a sense of rhythm. LEARNS.EDU.VN provides detailed tutorials on strumming techniques and chord variations for this song.
Chords Used: A, D, E
3.5. “Heart of Gold” by Neil Young
“Heart of Gold” is a folk-rock classic known for its mellow vibe and straightforward chord progression. The song mainly uses four chords: Em, C, G, and D. The chord changes are relatively slow, allowing beginners to practice switching between chords smoothly. The harmonica part adds a unique touch, but it’s not necessary for playing the song on guitar. LEARNS.EDU.VN offers in-depth lessons on fingerpicking and strumming patterns for “Heart of Gold.”
Chords Used: Em, C, G, D
3.6. “Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison
“Brown Eyed Girl” is a feel-good song with a simple and catchy chord progression, making it ideal for beginner guitarists. The song primarily uses four chords: G, C, D, and Em. The upbeat tempo and straightforward strumming pattern make it easy to play along with. This song is excellent for practicing chord transitions and improving your strumming rhythm. LEARNS.EDU.VN provides detailed guides on mastering the chords and strumming patterns for “Brown Eyed Girl.”
Chords Used: G, C, D, Em
3.7. “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King
“Stand By Me” is a timeless classic known for its simple yet powerful chord progression and soulful lyrics. The song features four main chords: G, Em, C, and D. The chord progression is repeated throughout the song, making it easy to memorize. The slow tempo allows beginners to practice chord changes at a comfortable pace. LEARNS.EDU.VN offers comprehensive tutorials on playing “Stand By Me,” including tips on achieving a smooth and soulful sound.
Chords Used: G, Em, C, D
3.8. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver
“Leaving on a Jet Plane” is a folk song with a gentle melody and simple chord structure, making it suitable for beginner guitarists. The song primarily uses four chords: G, C, D, and Em. The slow tempo and straightforward strumming pattern make it easy to play along with. This song is excellent for practicing smooth chord transitions and developing a sense of rhythm. LEARNS.EDU.VN provides detailed resources on mastering the chords and strumming patterns for “Leaving on a Jet Plane.”
Chords Used: G, C, D, Em
3.9. “You Are My Sunshine” (Traditional)
“You Are My Sunshine” is a classic folk song known for its simple chord progression and heartwarming lyrics. The song typically involves three main chords: C, G, and F. The chord progression is repetitive and easy to memorize, making it ideal for beginners. This song is also versatile, allowing for different strumming patterns and tempos to suit individual styles. You can find detailed tutorials on this song at LEARNS.EDU.VN, including tips on transitioning between chords smoothly.
Chords Used: C, G, F
3.10. “Hey Joe” (Traditional)
“Hey Joe” is a classic rock song with a simple and repetitive chord structure, making it perfect for beginner guitarists. The song features three main chords: C, G, and D. The steady, rhythmic strumming pattern is easy to learn and play along with. This song is excellent for practicing smooth chord transitions and developing a sense of rhythm. LEARNS.EDU.VN provides detailed tutorials on strumming techniques and chord variations for this song.
Chords Used: C, G, D
3.11. “Wild Thing” by The Troggs
“Wild Thing” is a rock classic that is incredibly simple to play, making it a great choice for beginners. The song primarily uses three chords: A, D, and E. The straightforward strumming pattern and repetitive structure make it easy to learn and play along with. This song is perfect for practicing power chords and developing a rock-and-roll feel. LEARNS.EDU.VN offers lessons on playing “Wild Thing,” including tips on adding your own style to the song.
Chords Used: A, D, E
3.12. “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
“Sweet Home Alabama” is a Southern rock anthem that is surprisingly accessible for beginner guitarists. The song features three main chords: D, C, and G. The iconic riff is relatively simple to learn and adds a fun element to the song. This song is excellent for practicing chord transitions and developing a sense of rhythm. LEARNS.EDU.VN provides detailed resources on mastering the chords and riffs for “Sweet Home Alabama.”
Chords Used: D, C, G
3.13. “Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival
“Bad Moon Rising” is a rock classic with a simple and catchy chord progression, making it ideal for beginner guitarists. The song primarily uses three chords: D, G, and A. The upbeat tempo and straightforward strumming pattern make it easy to play along with. This song is excellent for practicing chord transitions and improving your strumming rhythm. LEARNS.EDU.VN provides detailed guides on mastering the chords and strumming patterns for “Bad Moon Rising.”
Chords Used: D, G, A
3.14. “What’s Up?” by 4 Non Blondes
“What’s Up?” is a 90s hit with a powerful message and a simple chord structure, making it suitable for beginner guitarists. The song primarily uses three chords: G, Am, and C. The chord changes are relatively slow, allowing beginners to practice switching between chords smoothly. This song is excellent for developing a sense of rhythm and dynamics. LEARNS.EDU.VN offers comprehensive lessons on playing “What’s Up?”, including tips on adding emotion to your performance.
Chords Used: G, Am, C
3.15. “All the Small Things” by Blink-182
“All the Small Things” is a pop-punk anthem that is surprisingly easy to play on guitar, making it a great choice for beginners. The song features three main chords: C, G, and F. The energetic strumming pattern is easy to learn and play along with. This song is perfect for practicing power chords and developing a pop-punk feel. LEARNS.EDU.VN offers lessons on playing “All the Small Things,” including tips on capturing the energy of the original recording.
Chords Used: C, G, F
3.16. “Zombie” by The Cranberries
“Zombie” is a 90s alternative rock hit with a powerful message and a relatively simple chord structure, making it accessible for beginner guitarists. The song primarily uses four chords: Em, C, G, and D. The chord progression is repeated throughout most of the song, making it easier to memorize. This song is excellent for practicing smooth chord transitions and developing a sense of dynamics. LEARNS.EDU.VN provides detailed tutorials on playing “Zombie,” including tips on adding your own interpretation to the song.
Chords Used: Em, C, G, D
3.17. “Wonderwall” by Oasis
“Wonderwall” is a Britpop classic that is known for its simple chord progression and catchy melody. The song features four main chords: Em, G, D, and A7. While the A7 chord might be new, it is relatively easy to learn and adds a unique flavor to the song. This song is perfect for practicing chord transitions and developing a Britpop strumming style. LEARNS.EDU.VN offers lessons on playing “Wonderwall,” including tips on capturing the essence of the original recording.
Chords Used: Em, G, D, A7
3.18. “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” by Green Day
“Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” is a mellow and reflective song that is perfect for beginner guitarists. The song primarily uses four chords: G, C, D, and Em. The fingerpicking pattern is relatively simple and easy to learn, making it a great choice for practicing this technique. This song is excellent for developing finger dexterity and a sense of musical expression. LEARNS.EDU.VN provides detailed resources on mastering the chords and fingerpicking patterns for “Good Riddance.”
Chords Used: G, C, D, Em
3.19. “Horse with No Name” by America
“Horse with No Name” is a mellow classic that’s perfect for beginner guitarists due to its simple chord progression and relaxed tempo. The song mainly uses two chords: Em and D. The strumming pattern is straightforward, and the chord changes are easy to manage, making it an excellent choice for building confidence and developing your strumming skills. LEARNS.EDU.VN offers resources to help you master the chords and strumming patterns for this timeless tune.
Chords Used: Em, D
3.20. “Achy Breaky Heart” by Billy Ray Cyrus
“Achy Breaky Heart” is a fun, country-style song that’s surprisingly easy for beginners to learn. The song primarily uses two chords: A and E. This simplicity allows you to focus on developing your strumming technique and getting a feel for the rhythm. It’s a great choice for practicing country-style licks and improving your overall guitar skills. LEARNS.EDU.VN provides tutorials and tips to help you nail the chords and strumming patterns, making learning this song a breeze.
Chords Used: A, E
4. Strumming Patterns for Beginners
Mastering a few basic strumming patterns can significantly enhance your ability to play a wide variety of songs. Here are some fundamental strumming patterns perfect for beginners.
4.1. The Basic Down-Up Strum
This is the most fundamental strumming pattern and a great starting point for beginners.
Pattern: Down, Up, Down, Up
4.2. The Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up Strum
This pattern adds a bit more complexity while still being manageable for beginners.
Pattern: Down, Down, Up, Up, Down, Up
4.3. The Slow Ballad Strum
This pattern is perfect for slower, more melodic songs.
Pattern: Down, Down, Down, Down
4.4. The Reggae Strum
This pattern is used in many reggae songs and adds a unique rhythmic feel.
Pattern: Down, Up, Mute, Up
4.5. The Country Strum
This pattern is common in country music and features a steady, driving rhythm.
Pattern: Down, Down, Up, Down, Up
5. Tips for Learning Guitar as a Beginner
Starting your guitar journey can be exciting, but it’s also important to approach it with the right mindset and strategies. Here are some tips to help you succeed.
5.1. Set Realistic Goals
Begin with small, achievable goals. Trying to learn too much too soon can lead to frustration. LEARNS.EDU.VN recommends setting weekly or monthly goals to track your progress and stay motivated.
5.2. Practice Regularly
Consistency is key. Aim to practice at least 15-30 minutes each day. Regular, short practice sessions are more effective than sporadic, longer ones.
5.3. Use Online Resources
Take advantage of the wealth of online resources available, such as video tutorials, chord diagrams, and song lessons. LEARNS.EDU.VN offers a comprehensive library of resources tailored to beginner guitarists.
5.4. Learn to Read Chord Diagrams and Tabs
Understanding chord diagrams and tablature (tabs) is essential for learning new songs. LEARNS.EDU.VN provides detailed guides on how to read and interpret these resources.
5.5. Practice Chord Transitions
Smoothly transitioning between chords is a crucial skill. Practice these transitions slowly and repeatedly until they become second nature.
5.6. Play Along with Songs
Once you’ve learned a few chords, start playing along with your favorite songs. This helps you develop your rhythm and timing and makes practicing more enjoyable.
5.7. Record Yourself
Recording yourself playing can help you identify areas for improvement. Listen back critically and focus on correcting any mistakes you hear.
5.8. Find a Guitar Teacher
Consider taking lessons from a qualified guitar teacher. A teacher can provide personalized instruction and guidance and help you avoid common mistakes.
5.9. Be Patient
Learning guitar takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Be patient with yourself, and keep practicing.
5.10. Have Fun
Most importantly, remember to have fun! Learning guitar should be an enjoyable experience. Choose songs you love to play, and don’t be afraid to experiment and explore your musical creativity.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Starting Guitar
Avoiding common mistakes can save you time and frustration in the long run. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for as a beginner guitarist.
6.1. Incorrect Finger Placement
Ensure your fingers are positioned correctly on the fretboard. Press down firmly behind the fret, and avoid touching adjacent strings.
6.2. Ignoring Posture
Maintain good posture while playing. Sit or stand up straight, and keep your shoulders relaxed.
6.3. Overlooking Tuning
Always tune your guitar before playing. Playing an out-of-tune guitar can be frustrating and hinder your progress.
6.4. Neglecting Finger Exercises
Warm up your fingers with simple exercises before practicing. This helps improve your dexterity and prevent injuries.
6.5. Holding the Pick Incorrectly
Hold the pick firmly but not too tightly. Experiment with different angles to find what feels most comfortable.
6.6. Playing Too Fast Too Soon
Start slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable. Rushing can lead to mistakes and poor technique.
6.7. Giving Up Too Easily
Don’t get discouraged by initial difficulties. Learning guitar takes time and effort. Persevere, and you will eventually see results.
6.8. Not Seeking Feedback
Share your playing with others and ask for feedback. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement.
6.9. Ignoring Music Theory
While not essential for beginners, learning basic music theory can enhance your understanding of music and accelerate your progress.
6.10. Comparing Yourself to Others
Focus on your own progress and avoid comparing yourself to other guitarists. Everyone learns at their own pace, and it’s important to celebrate your achievements along the way.
7. How LEARNS.EDU.VN Can Help You Learn Guitar
LEARNS.EDU.VN is dedicated to providing high-quality educational resources to help you learn guitar effectively. Here’s how we can support your musical journey:
7.1. Comprehensive Song Lessons
We offer step-by-step lessons for a wide variety of songs, including many of the easy songs listed above. Our lessons include chord diagrams, strumming patterns, and video tutorials to guide you through each song.
7.2. Chord and Scale Guides
Our extensive chord and scale guides provide detailed information on different chords and scales, helping you understand music theory and improve your playing.
7.3. Strumming Pattern Tutorials
We offer tutorials on various strumming patterns, from basic down-up strums to more complex rhythms. Mastering these patterns will enable you to play a wide range of songs.
7.4. Finger Exercise Resources
Our finger exercise resources help you develop dexterity, strength, and coordination in your fingers, essential for playing guitar comfortably and accurately.
7.5. Expert Tips and Advice
Our team of experienced guitar teachers and musicians provides expert tips and advice on all aspects of learning guitar, from choosing the right instrument to developing good practice habits.
7.6. Interactive Learning Tools
We offer interactive learning tools such as chord and scale generators, metronomes, and tuners to enhance your learning experience and make practicing more effective.
7.7. Community Forum
Join our community forum to connect with other guitar learners, share your progress, ask questions, and receive support.
7.8. Personalized Learning Plans
We can help you create a personalized learning plan based on your goals, skill level, and musical preferences. This ensures you stay on track and make consistent progress.
7.9. Mobile-Friendly Access
Access our resources anytime, anywhere, with our mobile-friendly website and app. Learn guitar on the go, whether you’re at home, on the bus, or waiting for an appointment.
7.10. Regular Updates
We regularly update our resources with new songs, lessons, and tips to keep your learning experience fresh and engaging.
8. Expanding Your Guitar Knowledge
Once you’ve mastered the basics and learned a few easy songs, it’s time to expand your guitar knowledge and explore new techniques and concepts.
8.1. Learning Barre Chords
Barre chords can be challenging at first, but they open up a world of new possibilities on the guitar. LEARNS.EDU.VN offers detailed tutorials on mastering barre chords.
8.2. Exploring Different Genres
Experiment with different genres of music, such as blues, jazz, and classical. Each genre has its unique techniques and challenges.
8.3. Learning Fingerpicking
Fingerpicking involves plucking individual strings with your fingers instead of using a pick. This technique can add a new dimension to your playing.
8.4. Studying Music Theory
Deeper knowledge of music theory can help you understand how music works and enable you to write your own songs.
8.5. Developing Your Own Style
As you progress, experiment with different techniques and styles to develop your own unique voice on the guitar.
9. Maintaining Your Guitar
Proper guitar maintenance is crucial for ensuring your instrument stays in good playing condition. Here are some essential maintenance tips.
9.1. Cleaning Your Guitar
Regularly clean your guitar with a soft cloth to remove dirt and grime. Use a guitar polish to keep the finish looking its best.
9.2. Changing Strings
Replace your strings regularly, typically every 1-3 months, depending on how often you play. New strings sound brighter and are easier to play.
9.3. Adjusting Action
Adjust the action (string height) to ensure comfortable playing. If the strings are too high, it can be difficult to press them down.
9.4. Checking Intonation
Check the intonation to ensure the guitar plays in tune across the entire fretboard. Incorrect intonation can cause notes to sound sharp or flat.
9.5. Storing Your Guitar Properly
Store your guitar in a case or gig bag to protect it from dust, moisture, and temperature changes.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Learning Guitar
Here are some common questions that beginners often ask when learning guitar.
10.1. How long does it take to learn guitar?
The time it takes to learn guitar varies depending on your goals, practice habits, and natural ability. However, with consistent practice, you can learn to play basic chords and songs within a few months.
10.2. Is it hard to learn guitar?
Learning guitar can be challenging at times, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. With patience, persistence, and the right resources, anyone can learn to play.
10.3. What is the best age to start learning guitar?
There is no best age to start learning guitar. People of all ages can learn to play, from young children to seniors.
10.4. What type of guitar should I buy?
For beginners, an acoustic guitar is often recommended. It’s simple, affordable, and doesn’t require any additional equipment.
10.5. How often should I practice guitar?
Aim to practice at least 15-30 minutes each day. Regular, short practice sessions are more effective than sporadic, longer ones.
10.6. Do I need to learn to read music?
While not essential, learning to read music can enhance your understanding of music theory and make it easier to learn new songs.
10.7. Can I learn guitar online?
Yes, there are many excellent online resources available for learning guitar, including video tutorials, chord diagrams, and song lessons.
10.8. Should I take guitar lessons?
Taking guitar lessons from a qualified teacher can provide personalized instruction and guidance and help you avoid common mistakes.
10.9. How do I tune my guitar?
You can tune your guitar using an electronic tuner, a tuning app, or by ear using a reference pitch.
10.10. What should I do if my fingers hurt when playing guitar?
Finger pain is common when starting out. Take breaks, use lighter-gauge strings, and gradually build up your finger strength.
Learning guitar is a journey that requires patience, dedication, and the right resources. By starting with easy songs and focusing on developing fundamental skills, you can build a solid foundation and enjoy the many rewards of playing guitar.
At LEARNS.EDU.VN, we’re committed to providing you with the tools and support you need to succeed. Explore our website for comprehensive lessons, chord guides, and expert tips, and join our community to connect with fellow guitar learners. With our help, you’ll be strumming your favorite songs in no time!
Ready to start your guitar journey? Visit LEARNS.EDU.VN today and unlock your musical potential!
Contact Information:
- Address: 123 Education Way, Learnville, CA 90210, United States
- WhatsApp: +1 555-555-1212
- Website: LEARNS.EDU.VN
Take the first step towards becoming a guitarist and discover the joy of making music! Visit LEARNS.EDU.VN to explore courses and resources tailored for beginners. Whether you want to learn specific songs, master fundamental techniques, or deepen your understanding of music theory, we have everything you need to succeed. Don’t wait—start your musical journey today and unlock your potential with learns.edu.vn!
