100 Easy Guitar Songs (With Chord Charts & Difficulty Ratings)

When you’re starting out on the guitar, the hardest part isn’t learning chords. It’s putting them together to play songs.

But first, you need to know which songs are actually worth learning.

I’ve been playing and teaching guitar for over 30 years, and I know how hard the early stages can feel. So I chose these songs using a few simple rules:

• the chords are simple
• the chord changes are manageable at beginner level
• the rhythm can be simplified without ruining the song
• it’s a great song that will feel epic to play once you nail it

Video Lesson: 5 Easy Guitar Songs (That Don’t Suck)

I’ve made a video of my 5 favourite easy songs that actually sound good.

While you’re watching please subscribe to my YouTube Channel for more lessons like this.

Where to start with the list

Don’t worry! You don’t need to learn all 100 songs.

STEP ONE: If you’re brand new, start with one 😎 song and stick with it until it feels comfortable. Then take on another 😎 song.

STEP TWO: The 😜 songs will push you on with more challenging chords, timing or changes.

STEP THREE: The 🤯 songs will take you to the next level with barre chords and other more complicated elements. These songs are trickier, but they’re still ‘easy’ guitar songs – you can get there with patience and determination.

How to practise these songs (without getting overwhelmed)

• Start much slower than the record. If you can’t play it slowly and in time, speeding up won’t help.
• Focus on the tricky parts. When you hit a chord change that you’re struggling with, focus on that. Move between those two chords over and over and then go back to the song. I’ve found this fixes problems faster than playing the whole thing badly.
• Simple strumming first, fancy later. Straight downstrokes are absolutely fine at the start. Get the chords and timing solid before worrying about the original strumming pattern.

Related content:

Too many chords for you? Have a look at our lists of 2 chord songs and 3 chord songs.

Just interested in Rock? Here’s a list of 30 easy rock guitar songs.

Maybe country is your thing. Here’s my top 15 easy country songs.

Want to learn a riff? I’ve got 8 easy guitar riffs for you.

To learn chords, check out our article on easy guitar chords, which covers the first 8 chords that every guitarist should know. Most of the songs in this list can be played with just these 8 simple chords.

So let’s dive into my picks of the top 100 easy guitar songs.

Table of 100 easy guitar songs

I’ve given every song an easiness rating for beginner guitarists. (Experienced guitarists will find all of these songs easy and fun to play).

😎 = certified easy guitar song.

A complete beginner should be able to play this with enough practice. There aren’t many chords and the chords are all simple.

😜 = relatively easy guitar song.

It may have more than 4 chords, or include a slightly tricky chord.

🤯 = challenging easy guitar song.

Warning: may contain barre chords. It’s for guitarists who are past the complete beginner phase as it has lots of chords or some tricky to play chords.

#	Song (click to jump)	Artist	Easy?	Year	Chords
1	A Horse with No Name	America	😎	1971	Em, D6/9/F#
2	Wonderwall	Oasis	😜	1995	Em7, G, Dsus4, A7sus4
3	Wish You Were Here	Pink Floyd	😜	1975	G, Em, G, A7, C, D
4	Bad Moon Rising	Creedence Clearwater Revival	😎	1969	D, A, G
5	Love Me Do	The Beatles	😎	1962	G, C, G7, D
6	Blowin’ in the Wind	Bob Dylan	😎	1962	G, C, D
7	I’m Yours	Jason Mraz	😜	2008	G, D, Em, C, A7
8	Sweet Home Alabama	Lynyrd Skynyrd	😎	1974	D, C, G
9	Three Little Birds	Bob Marley	😎	1977	A, D, E
10	Brown Eyed Girl	Van Morrison	😎	1967	G, C, D, Em
11	Ring of Fire	Johnny Cash	😎	1963	G, C, D
12	Let It Be	The Beatles	😎	1970	C, G, Am, F
13	Wonderful Tonight	Eric Clapton	😎	1977	G, D, C, Em
14	What’s Up	4 Non Blondes	😎	1992	A, Bm, D
15	You’re Beautiful	James Blunt	😎	2005	Eb, Bb, Gm, F
16	Leaving on a Jet Plane	John Denver	😎	1966	G, C, D
17	Free Fallin’	Tom Petty	😎	1989	D, G, Asus4
18	Island in the Sun	Weezer	😎	2001	Em, Am, D, G
19	Pumped Up Kicks	Foster the People	😎	2010	Em, G, D, A
20	Hey Joe	Jimi Hendrix	😜	1966	C, G, D, A, E
21	Wild Thing	The Troggs	😎	1966	A, D, E
22	Jambalaya	Hank Williams	😎	1952	C, G
23	The Gambler	Kenny Rogers	😎	1978	G, C, D
24	Love Story	Taylor Swift	😎	2008	C, G, Am, F
25	Riptide	Vance Joy	😎	2013	Am, G, C
26	Stand By Me	Ben E. King	😎	1961	G, Em, C, D
27	Viva La Vida	Coldplay	😜	2008	C, D, G, Em, Bm
28	Zombie	The Cranberries	😜	1994	Em, C, G, D/F#
29	Creep	Radiohead	🤯	1993	WARNING BARRE CHORDS: G, B, C, Cm
30	Hallelujah	Jeff Buckley (originally Leonard Cohen)	😜	1994	C, Am, F, G, E7
31	Imagine	John Lennon	🤯	1971	C, Cmaj7, F, Dm, Fmaj7
32	Last Nite	The Strokes	😜	2001	C, Dm, Em, G, F
33	Radioactive	Imagine Dragons	😎	2012	Am, C, G, D
34	Songbird	Oasis	😎	2003	G, Em7, Dsus4/F#
35	Twist and Shout	The Beatles	😎	1963	D, G, A
36	Space Oddity	David Bowie	😎	1969	C, Em, A, Am7
37	Where Is My Mind?	Pixies	🤯	1988	E, C#m, G#m, A
38	Ho Hey	The Lumineers	😎	2012	C, G, Am, F
39	I Walk The Line	Johnny Cash	😎	1956	A, D, E
40	Mr. Tambourine Man	Bob Dylan	😎	1965	G, A, D
41	I Will Follow You Into The Dark	Death Cab for Cutie	😎	2005	F, C, G, Am
42	Take Me Home, Country Roads	John Denver	😎	1971	G, D, Em, C
43	Seven Nation Army	The White Stripes	😜	2003	E, G, A, B, C, D
44	Californication	Red Hot Chili Peppers	😎	1999	Am, F, C, G
45	American Pie	Don McLean	😜	1971	G, D, Em, Am, C
46	Redemption Song	Bob Marley	😎	1980	G, C, D, Em
47	Hound Dog	Elvis Presley	😜	1956	C, A7, D7, G7
48	Let Her Go	Passenger	😎	2012	C, D, Em, D, C
49	Yellow	Coldplay	😎	2000	C, G, D, E
50	Chasing Cars	Snow Patrol	😎	2006	A, E, D
51	Peaceful Easy Feeling	Eagles	😎	1972	E, A, B7
52	Breakfast at Tiffany’s	Deep Blue Something	😜	1995	D, G, A, Bm
53	Where Is The Love?	Black Eyed Peas	😜	2003	F, C, Dm, Bb
54	Fast Car	Tracy Chapman	😜	1988	Cmaj7, G, Em, D
55	Count on Me	Bruno Mars	😜	2010	C, Em, Am, G, F
56	Cotton Fields	Creedence Clearwater Revival	😎	1969	C, G7, F
57	About A Girl	Nirvana	😎	1989	Em, G.
58	Have You Ever Seen The Rain?	Creedence Clearwater Revival	😎	1971	C, G, F
59	Margaritaville	Jimmy Buffett	😎	1977	D, G, A
60	Banana Pancakes	Jack Johnson	😎	2005	G7, D7, Am7
61	You Belong With Me	Taylor Swift	😎	2008	D, A, Em, G
62	Don’t Look Back in Anger	Oasis	😜	1996	C, G, Am, E, F
63	Daughter	Pearl Jam	😎	1993	G, D, A, C
64	Everybody Hurts	R.E.M.	🤯	1992	D, G, Em, A
65	One Love	Bob Marley	😎	1977	B, F#, E
66	This Land is Your Land	Woody Guthrie	😎	1944	D, G, A7
67	Can’t Help Falling in Love	Elvis Presley	😜	1961	C, G, Am, F, Em, B7, A7, Dm, D, F#m, Bm, A, C#7
68	Stay With Me	Sam Smith	😎	2014	Am, F, C
69	House of the Rising Sun	The Animals	😜	1964	Am, C, D, F, E
70	Stir It Up	Bob Marley	😎	1973	A, D, E
71	Sweet Child O’ Mine	Guns N’ Roses	😎	1987	D, C, G
72	A Team	Ed Sheeran	😜	2011	G, D/F#, Em, C
73	All Apologies	Nirvana	😎	1993	F, C, D
74	With or Without You	U2	😜	1987	D, A, Bm, G
75	Folsom Prison Blues	Johnny Cash	😎	1955	E, A, B7
76	Ziggy Stardust	David Bowie	🤯	1972	G, Bm, A, Em, C, D
77	Hey, Soul Sister	Train	😜	2009	C, G, Am, F
78	The Man Who Sold the World	Nirvana (MTV Unplugged)	😎	1993	Em, D, C, A
79	Paint It Black	Rolling Stones	😎	1966	Bm, D, E
80	A Thousand Years	Christina Perri	😎	2011	C, Am, F, G
81	Perfect	Ed Sheeran	🤯	2017	G, Em7, Cadd9, Dsus4, D/F#, G/B
82	Wagon Wheel	Old Crow Medicine Show/Darius Rucker	😎	2004	G, D, Em, C
83	More Than Words	Extreme	😎	1990	G, C, Am, D
84	She Will Be Loved	Maroon 5	😜	2004	Bm, A, G, D, Em
85	Your Song	Elton John	😜	1970	Eb, Ab, Bb, Cm
86	Hero	Enrique Iglesias	😎	2001	C, G, Am, F
87	Hurt	Johnny Cash	😎	2002	Am, C, Dm, E
88	Just The Way You Are	Bruno Mars	😎	2010	G, D, Em, C
89	Royals	Lorde	😜	2013	Bb, Gm, Eb, F
90	Counting Stars	OneRepublic	😎	2013	C, G, Am, F
91	Wake Me Up	Avicii	😎	2013	C, G, Am, F
92	The Boxer	Simon and Garfunkel	😎	1969	G, C, D, Em
93	Jolene	Dolly Parton	😎	1973	C, Am, F, G
94	Best Day of My Life	American Authors	😎	2013	C, G, Am, F
95	Torn	Natalie Imbruglia	😎	1997	Em, G, D, C
96	You’re Gonna Go Far, Kid	The Offspring	😎	2008	G, D, Em, C
97	The Scientist	Coldplay	😎	2002	Em, C, G, D
98	Say It Ain’t So	Weezer	😎	1994	G, D, Em, C
99	Closing Time	Semisonic	😎	1998	G, D, Am, C
100	Ain’t No Sunshine	Bill Withers	😎	1971	Am, Em, G, Dm

Breakdown of easy guitar songs

1. “A Horse with No Name” by America

A Horse With No Name Chords:

A Horse With No Name might be the easiest song of all time. It only uses two chords, and I’ve seen complete beginners with no experience pick this one up surprisingly quickly. Don’t be put off by the strange name of the second chord either — it’s very easy to play.

Both chords use the same two fingers, so your fretting hand barely has to move. That makes this song ideal for locking in a steady rhythm without worrying about constant chord changes. The only thing to watch is the strumming. Start with simple downstrokes and focus on staying in time. Once the chord changes feel comfortable, you can try matching the strumming you hear on the record.

Chord chart for Horse with No Name by America

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2. “Wonderwall” by Oasis

Wonderwall Chords (capo at the 2nd fret):

Are you actually a guitarist if you can’t play Wonderwall? It’s a beginner rite of passage for a reason. What makes it a great beginner song is the minimal left hand movement needed (or right hand if you’re a lefty). If you keep your ring and little finger planted on the top strings, most of the changes feel much easier than they look. When I first learned guitar this was actually in the charts, and it was one of the first songs I ever learned. I still remember the buzz of getting it right, so I hope you enjoy learning it too.

To play Wonderwall in the same key as the recording, you need a capo on the 2nd fret. If you’re not sure how to use a capo, check out my guide on how to use a capo.

Chord chart for Wonderwall by Oasis

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3. “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd

Wish You Were Here Chords:

“Wish You Were Here” is a great beginner song because the chord changes give you time to think. The tempo is slow enough that you can focus on clean transitions without feeling rushed, and the open chords sit comfortably under the fingers.

Although there are seven chords, they’re all fairly friendly open shapes. The D/F# often catches people out, but you can experiment with wrapping your thumb over the neck to grab the bass note if it feels comfortable. It’s a useful technique to get used to, but don’t worry if it takes time.

Take your time with the changes and don’t worry about the intro lead part at first. Simply strumming the chords along to the song is more than enough to get started.

Chord chart for Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd

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4. “Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival

Bad Moon Rising chords:

Possibly the greatest three-chord song of all time, “Bad Moon Rising” only uses D, A and G, three of the very first chords you should learn. The changes come around quickly, which makes it perfect for tightening up your chord transitions while keeping your strumming steady. Slow it down at first and focus on staying in time before bringing it up to speed.

Chord chart for Bad Moon Rising by Creedence Clearwater Revival

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5. “Love Me Do” by The Beatles

Love Me Do chords:

“Love Me Do” works well for beginners because it sticks to four basic open chords that repeat throughout the song. That gives you plenty of chances to practise clean chord changes without feeling rushed. Singing along also helps you keep the rhythm relaxed and steady while you play. Like with any song, start slow and then build up the pace. You may even find a Paul McCartney head wiggle helps you nail it.

Chords chart for Love Me Do by The Beatles

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6. “Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan

Blowin’ In The Wins Chords (capo at 7th fret):

“Blowin’ in the Wind” works well for beginners because it uses simple open chords that repeat throughout the song. I always recommend that beginners approach it as a strummed version at first rather than full fingerpicking. Focus on steady timing and clean chord changes and build from there.

Chord chart for Blowin’ in the Wind by Bob Dylan

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7. “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz

I’m Yours chords:

“I’m Yours” works well for beginners because it sticks to five basic open chords that repeat throughout the song. The steady, upbeat rhythm makes it good practice for changing chords in time without feeling rushed. Start with simple strumming and focus on keeping the groove relaxed rather than copying the full pattern straight away.

Chord chart for I’m Yours by Jason Mraz

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8. “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

Sweet Home Alabama chords:

While the iconic riff will be too much for complete beginners, “Sweet Home Alabama” has a three-chord progression that remains consistent throughout the song. The F and C are used fairly sparingly. This makes it an excellent track for beginners to practice strumming techniques and swift chord transitions. And maybe one day you can pull off the lead parts!

Chord chart for Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd

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9. “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley

Three Little Birds Chords:

“Three Little Birds” works well for beginners because it sticks to a simple three-chord loop that repeats throughout the song. That makes it ideal for practising smooth chord changes while keeping the rhythm relaxed. To get closer to the reggae feel, listen to the record and use light upstrokes on the off-beats, which are the “ands” between the counts (one and two and three and four and).

Chord chart for Three Little Birds by Bob Marley.

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10. “Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison

Brown Eyed Girl Chords:

“Brown Eyed Girl” uses simple chords and has a catchy, easy-to-follow melody, which makes it a great choice for beginners. The actual guitar part would be out of reach for a beginner guitarist, but anyone can enjoy strumming along.

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11. “Ring of Fire” by Johnny Cash

Ring of Fire Chords:

Legend has it, once you nail “Ring of Fire”, you’re nearly as cool as Johnny Cash. And the good news is that it’s super easy, with just three beginner chords in it. And if you’re like me and have quite a low voice, it’s a great one to sing along to without having to strain.

Chord chart for Ring of Fire by Johnny Cash.

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12. “Let It Be” by The Beatles

Let It Be chords (capo at 5th fret):

While it’s a piano ballad, “Let It Be” is an ideal choice for beginner guitarists, thanks to its slower pace and the repetition of the four basic chords. It is also a great song to practice singing while playing the guitar.

Chord chart for Let It Be by The Beatles.

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13. “Wonderful Tonight” by Eric Clapton

Wonderful Tonight chords:

“Wonderful Tonight” is a beautiful song that beginners can learn easily due to its straightforward chord progression. And the tempo is slow, which can help in getting those chord changes down.

The famous melodic phrase which opens the song, and repeats throughout, is also a great place to start your journey into playing solos. Find a tab for this line and a chord chart below.

Chord chart for Wonderful Tonight by Eric Clapton.

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14. “What’s Up” by 4 Non Blondes

Chords: G, Am, C

Another great 3 chord song for you, my friend. “What’s Up” only uses the G, A minor and C chord making it an excellent choice for beginners. And what’s more, it’s great for a singalong in a group, heeeeeeyyyyy yyyyeeeeaaahh yeeaaah yeaahhh…

Tab:

G         Am       C
E|---3------0------0---|
B|---3------1------1---|
G|---0------2------0---|
D|---0------2------2---|
A|---2------0------3---|
E|---3------x------x---|

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15. “You’re Beautiful” by James Blunt

Chords: C, G, F, Am

Personally, I find this song incredibly annoying haha. But each to their own, and I know some people love it. If you’re one of those people, “You’re Beautiful” is a perfect choice for beginners, as it involves just 4 chords on repeat. So go ahead if you have zero taste in music.

Tab:

C         G        F        Am
E|---0------3------1------0---|
B|---1------3------1------1---|
G|---0------0------2------2---|
D|---2------0------3------2---|
A|---3------2------x------0---|
E|---x------3------x------x---|

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16. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver

Chords: G, C, D

There’s a tragic irony to this song, as John Denver actually died in a plane crash. But besides the morbid undertones, “Leaving on a Jet Plane” is a great song for beginners with its simple, repetitive chord progression with just three chords. Once you’ve got them down, give singing along a go.

Tab:

G         C        D
E|---3------0------2---|
B|---3------1------3---|
G|---0------0------2---|
D|---0------2------0---|
A|---2------3------x---|
E|---3------x------x---|

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17. “Free Fallin'” by Tom Petty

Chords: D, G, A

I love Tom Petty and his genius for simple songwriting. And “Free Falling” is a perfect example. Just three chords and you’ve got a timeless classic in your hands. It’s also a real crowd pleaser for when you feel confident enough to play in front of people.

Tab:

D         G        A
E|---2------3------0---|
B|---3------3------2---|
G|---2------0------2---|
D|---0------0------2---|
A|---x------2------0---|
E|---x------3------x---|

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18. “Island in the Sun” by Weezer

Chords: Em, Am, D, G

Another band I absolutely love – Weezer! When I started learning guitar in the 90s, they were all over the charts. And “Island in the Sun” is a great example of their catchy songwriting. It’s got just four simple chords and a nice, steady and relaxed pace, which is great for practicing rhythm and transitions.

Tab:

Em        Am       D        G
E|---0------0------2------3---|
B|---0------1------3------3---|
G|---0------2------2------0---|
D|---2------2------0------0---|
A|---2------0------x------2---|
E|---0------x------x------3---|

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19. “Pumped Up Kicks” by Foster the People

Chords: Em, G, D, A

I’ve had lots of students start with this one. “Pumped Up Kicks” uses just four simple chords and has an easy-to-learn melody, making it an ideal song for beginners. And when a song is this catchy I’ve found people will stick to learning it all the way through, which is just what you need.

Tab:

Em        G        D        A
E|---0------3------2------0---|
B|---0------3------3------2---|
G|---0------0------2------2---|
D|---2------0------0------2---|
A|---2------2------x------0---|
E|---0------3------x------x---|

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20. “Hey Joe” by Jimi Hendrix

Chords: C, G, D, A, E

When you look up ‘Timeless Classic’ in the dictionary, you’ll find this song. “Hey Joe” is an amazing song for beginners looking to challenge themselves with a five-chord progression. The rhythm is steady and the chord changes are predictable, providing a great practice ground. And while it’s got five chords, they’re all easy beginner chords.

Tab:

C         G        D        A        E
E|---0------3------2------0------0---|
B|---1------3------3------2------0---|
G|---0------0------2------2------1---|
D|---2------0------0------2------2---|
A|---3------2------x------0------2---|
E|---x------3------x------x------0---|

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21. “Wild Thing” by The Troggs

Chords: A, D, E

“Wild Thing” is a classic rock anthem that’s ideal for beginners. The simple three-chord progression and catchy, repetitive rhythm make it easy to learn and a lot of fun to play. It’s also fairy easy to sing and play at the same time. But like with any song you want to sing along to, make sure you’ve got the chords down so well they’re automatic, and then go from there.

Tab:

A         D        E
E|---0------2------0---|
B|---2------3------0---|
G|---2------2------1---|
D|---2------0------2---|
A|---0------x------2---|
E|---x------x------0---|

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22. “Jambalaya” by Hank Williams

Chords: C, G

Three chords too many? How’s a two chord song for ya!? “Jambalaya” by Hank Williams is a fantastic song for beginners with just the trusty C and G chord. It’s got a nice upbeat tempo too, so is really fun to play.

Tab:

C         G       
E|---0------3-----|
B|---1------3-----|
G|---0------0-----|
D|---2------0-----|
A|---3------2-----|
E|---x------3-----|

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23. “The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers

Chords: G, C, D

“The Gambler” offers a fun and engaging way for beginners to practice three major chords. I’ve never been a fan of Kenny Rogers personally, but know what a great songwriter he was, and how many people love it, so this one’s well worthy of a mention on the list.

Tab:

G         C        D
E|---3------0------2---|
B|---3------1------3---|
G|---0------0------2---|
D|---0------2------0---|
A|---2------3------x---|
E|---3------x------x---|

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24. “Love Story” by Taylor Swift

Chords: C, G, Am, F

Confession, I’m a big fan of Taylor Swift thanks to my young daughter. She’s written so many fantastic pop songs. And “Love Story” is one of those. It got a lovely four-chord progression throughout, which makes it a great one for beginners, especially those with a little Swifty in their home.

Tab:

C         G        Am       F
E|---0------3------0------1---|
B|---1------3------1------1---|
G|---0------0------2------2---|
D|---2------0------2------3---|
A|---3------2------0------3---|
E|---x------3------x------1---|

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25. “Riptide” by Vance Joy

Riptide chords:

Capo at 1st fret.

“Riptide” is a catchy modern classic that’s perfect for beginners due to its repetitive three-chord structure for the most part of the song. The Fmaj7 only pops up briefly in the bridge and it’s actually a super easy chord, just like a C with a bit of a switch.

Chord chart for Riptide by Vance Joy.

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26. “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King

The Stand By Me chords are A, F#m, D and E. But with a capo at the 2nd fret, these more simple shapes can be played: G, Em, C and D.

So with capo at 2nd fret, play:

I love “Stand By Me” is an all-time soul classic and its repetitive chord progression makes it a great song for beginners. I grew up loving the 1986 movie of the same name, which featured the song. So when I was learning it was something inspired me. Hope it can do the same for you.

Chord chart for Stand By Me by Ben E. King.

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27. “Viva La Vida” by Coldplay

Capo at the 1st fret.

Chords: C, D, G, Em

Coldplay devide opinion, with a lot of music snobs turning their nose up at them. I fall into the camp of reluctantly loving some of their songs, like this one. “Viva La Vida” uses a simple four-chord progression throughout the song, making it easy to play for beginners.

Tab:

C         D        G        Em
E|---0------2------3------0---|
B|---1------3------3------0---|
G|---0------2------0------0---|
D|---2------0------0------2---|
A|---3------x------2------2---|
E|---x------x------3------0---|

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28. “Zombie” by The Cranberries

Chords: Em, C, G, D/F#

This was an MTV regular in the 90s when I first learned it. “Zombie” is a grunge classic with an easy four-chord progression, offering a great way to practice strumming and chord transitions. It’s got a really driving rhythm to, so a great workout for the right hand (or left hand if you’re a lefty).

Tab:

Em        C        G        D/F#
E|---0------0------3------2---|
B|---0------1------3------3---|
G|---0------0------0------2---|
D|---2------2------0------0---|
A|---2------3------2------0---|
E|---0------x------3------2---|

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29. “Creep” by Radiohead

Creep chords:

Creep by Radiohead has just four chords: G, B, C and Cm.

“Creep” by Radiohead gets our 🤯 difficulty rating because it’s all barre chords. But it makes our list of easy guitar songs because it’s the same four chords throughout the whole song, on repeat. This makes it a perfect song to learn how to learn how to barre. So don’t be scared, get learning today and open up a world of barre-possibilities.

Chord chart for Creep by Radiohead.

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30. “Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley

Hallelujah chords:

Hallelujah was written by Leonard Cohen, but I’m focussing on the more famous Jeff Buckley cover version. It’s a beautiful, slow-paced song that’s perfect for beginners. Jeff played the original with a capo at the 5th fret, but my easy version uses simple open chords. I’ve even swapped out the dreaded F barre chord for an easier version.

Chord chart for Hallelujah by Jeff Buckley.

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31. “Imagine” by John Lennon

Chords: C, Cmaj7, F

This one’s in the list of greatest songs of all time for a reason. And “Imagine” is a timeless classic that is ideal for beginners due to its slow tempo and relatively simple chords. It’s an excellent song to introduce you to a major seventh chord.

Tab:

C         Cmaj7    F
E|---0------0------1---|
B|---1------0------1---|
G|---0------0------2---|
D|---2------2------3---|
A|---3------3------x---|
E|---x------x------x---|

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32. “Last Nite” by The Strokes

Chords: C, Dm, Em, G, F

If you want to feel like you’re in a band, play this.

Last Nite is mostly about rhythm and consistency. The chord shapes are simple, but the groove matters. Lock into the strumming and it suddenly sounds much harder than it is.

This is a great song for tightening up your right hand. Keep it steady. Don’t rush.

It’s simple. But it sounds like you know what you’re doing.

If you want a proper lesson on this, check out my video at the top of the page.

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33. “Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons

Chords: Am, C, G, D

“Radioactive” is a modern rock song with a great, catchy melody – what’s not to love. The song employs a simple four-chord progression that makes it great for beginners to practice. I’ve found it’s really rewarding for beginners, because once they lock into the groove it feels great.

Tab:

Am        C        G        D
E|---0------0------3------2---|
B|---1------1------3------3---|
G|---2------0------0------2---|
D|---2------2------0------0---|
A|---0------3------2------x---|
E|---x------x------3------x---|

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34. “Songbird” by Oasis

Chords: G, Dsus4/F#, Em7.

Three chords. That’s it. And each chord uses the Noel Gallagher trick of leaving your ring and little finger down on the 3rd fret throughout (which is just the same as Wonderwall).

I’m a massive Oasis fan, as my YouTube channel would suggest. For those intermediates out there, check out my videos on How to Play Lead Guitar Like Noel Gallagher and Why the Live Forever Solo Works.

Songbird is one of the easiest genuinely beautiful songs you can play on guitar. It uses simple open chords and a relaxed strumming pattern, so it’s perfect if you’re still getting comfortable switching between shapes.

It also sounds intentional. Not “I just learned three chords yesterday.” Play it slowly, keep the rhythm steady, and it instantly feels musical.

If you want something easy that still feels grown up, this is a great place to start. And check out my video at the top of the page where I give a proper lesson on this one.

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35. “Twist and Shout” by The Beatles

Chords: D, G, A

True story: John Lennon had a cold when singing this song, which gives his voice that iconic breaking up feel. “Twist and Shout” is a rock and roll classic that I’ve found beginner students love playing, time and time again.

Tab:

D         G        A
E|---2------3------0---|
B|---3------3------2---|
G|---2------0------2---|
D|---0------0------2---|
A|---x------2------0---|
E|---x------3------x---|

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36. “Space Oddity” by David Bowie

Chords: C, Em, Am, A7 (for the main progression)

“Space Oddity” by David Bowie is a real classic. I’ve just focused on the 4 chords of the main progression here. The song’s main chord progression is a perfect thing to try when you’re starting out, with it’s nice a slow tempo. There are more chords for the rest of the song, so there’s more to work towards once you’ve got the main chord progression down.

Tab:

C         Em       Am       A7
E|---0------0------0------0---|
B|---1------0------1------2---|
G|---0------0------2------0---|
D|---2------2------2------2---|
A|---3------2------0------0---|
E|---x------0------x------x---|

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37. “Where Is My Mind?” by Pixies

Chords: G, Em, Am, C, D

Minimal. Moody. Instantly recognisable.

Check out the video at the top of this page for a proper lesson on this one.

This song is built around a repeating chord pattern, which makes it great for beginners. You don’t have to memorise loads of sections. You just settle into the progression and let it loop.

It’s also one of those songs that upgrades your taste instantly. It sounds alternative without being difficult.

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38. “Ho Hey” by The Lumineers

Chords: C, G, Am, F

The catchy tune of “Ho Hey” makes it a fun song to play. I’ve found that because it’s such a simple song, it works perfectly for someone playing on their own. Just watch out for the tricky F barre chord. You have to learn it at some point, so why not start with this song?

Tab:

C         G        Am       F
E|---0------3------0------1---|
B|---1------3------1------1---|
G|---0------0------2------2---|
D|---2------0------2------3---|
A|---3------2------0------3---|
E|---x------3------x------1---|

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39. “I Walk The Line” by Johnny Cash

Chords: A, D, E

Another Johnny Cash classic on our list. He had a real knack for simple, 3 chord songs, and “I Walk The Line” is another great one. It’s a good one for that boom-chick feel of the rhythm, so once you’ve got simple strumming down, give the authentic strumming a go.

Tab:

A         D        E
E|---0------2------0---|
B|---2------3------0---|
G|---2------2------1---|
D|---2------0------2---|
A|---0------x------2---|
E|---x------x------0---|

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40. “Mr. Tambourine Man” by Bob Dylan

Chords: G, A, D

The lyric master Dylan didn’t always rely on complex chord structures. “Mr. Tambourine Man” uses only three simple chords, making it a fantastic song for beginners. The song’s slow tempo and smooth transitions between chords make it a good’un for mastering strumming and chord changes.

Tab:

G         A        D
E|---3------0------2---|
B|---3------2------3---|
G|---0------2------2---|
D|---0------2------0---|
A|---2------0------x---|
E|---3------x------x---|

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41. “I Will Follow You Into The Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie

Chords: C, Em, Am, F

Not the most famous band on the list, but one I really love. Death Cab For Cutie will always be close to my heart and “I Will Follow You Into The Dark” is just beautiful. It has a slow tempo and a simple chord progression that beginners will find manageable. It’s also a great song for developing fingerpicking skills once you’ve got the simple strumming down.

Tab:

C         Em       Am       F
E|---0------0------0------1---|
B|---1------0------1------1---|
G|---0------0------2------2---|
D|---2------2------2------3---|
A|---3------2------0------x---|
E|---x------0------x------x---|

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42. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver

Take Me Home, Country Roads chords:

Capo at 2nd fret.

This is such a great beginner song, I’ve even made a video tutorial on YouTube for it (above).

“Take Me Home, Country Roads” has a comfortable rhythm and a sing-along chorus. As I’ve shown in the video, you can strum this one in various ways depending on your level. And once you’ve got it down, it’s really fun to play to other people and get them to sing along with you.

Chord chart for Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver.

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43. “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes

Chords: E, G, A

One of the most famous riffs of all time, “Seven Nation Army” is notable for its iconic bass line, which can also be played on a standard six-string guitar. This song is great for beginners learning barre chords and practicing timing.

Tab:

E         G        A
E|---0------3------5---|
B|---0------3------5---|
G|---1------4------6---|
D|---2------5------7---|
A|---2------5------7---|
E|---0------3------5---|

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44. “Californication” by Red Hot Chili Peppers

Chords: Am, F, C, G

“Californication” offers a simple four-chord progression and the opportunity to explore arpeggios – which is a fancy way of saying to play a chord one note at a time. It’s an excellent choice for beginners wanting to build up their chord knowledge and picking techniques.

Tab:

Am        F        C        G
E|---0------1------0------3---|
B|---1------1------1------3---|
G|---2------2------0------0---|
D|---2------3------2------0---|
A|---0------3------3------2---|
E|---x------1------x------3---|

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45. “American Pie” by Don McLean

Chords: G, D, Em, Am, C

My late father loved this one, so it will always be a love of mine. “American Pie” has a great sing-along vibe and a fairly simple chord progression. With its long runtime, it’s an excellent choice for beginners to build up stamina… can you get through the whole song?!

Tab:

G         D        Em       Am       C
E|---3------2------0------0------0---|
B|---3------3------0------1------1---|
G|---0------2------0------2------0---|
D|---0------0------2------2------2---|
A|---2------x------2------0------3---|
E|---3------x------0------x------x---|

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46. “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley

Chords: G, Em, C, Am

“Redemption Song” by Bob Marley is a reggae classic with a simple chord progression and repetitive strumming pattern. It’s simple, but it exposes messy timing. Keep it relaxed and consistent and it will sound instantly musical.

Tab:

G         Em       C        Am
E|---3------0------0------0---|
B|---3------0------1------1---|
G|---0------0------0------2---|
D|---0------2------2------2---|
A|---2------2------3------0---|
E|---3------0------x------x---|

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47. “Hound Dog” by Elvis Presley

Chords: C, F, G

“Hound Dog” by Elvis Presley is a rock and roll classic that uses just three chords. It’s pure attitude. Even with basic chords you’ll sound like you’re ‘performing’, not just practicing.

Tab:

C         F        G
E|---0------1------3---|
B|---1------1------3---|
G|---0------2------0---|
D|---2------3------0---|
A|---3------3------2---|
E|---x------1------3---|

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48. “Let Her Go” by Passenger

Chords: C, D, Em, G, Bm, Am

“Let Her Go” is a modern folk-pop classic. It’s perfect for learning that singer-songwriter thing where the guitar stays steady and the vocal does the emotion. It features six simple chords and a slow tempo, so great for beginners all around.

Tab:

C         D        Em       G        Bm       Am
E|---0------2------0------3------2------0---|
B|---1------3------0------3------3------1---|
G|---0------2------0------0------4------2---|
D|---2------0------2------0------4------2---|
A|---3------x------2------2------2------0---|
E|---x------x------0------3------x------x---|

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49. “Yellow” by Coldplay

Chords: G, D, C, E

“Yellow” is a memorable song from Coldplay with a beautiful melody. The four-chord structure makes it a great choice for beginners to practice their chord transitions.

Tab:

G         D        C        E
E|---3------2------0------0---|
B|---3------3------1------0---|
G|---0------2------0------1---|
D|---0------0------2------2---|
A|---2------x------3------2---|
E|---3------x------x------0---|

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50. “Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol

Chords: A, E, D

“Chasing Cars” is all about dynamics. Quiet strums, build it up, and it teaches you how to make simple chords sound big. The song’s simplicity makes it a great choice for beginners to practice maintaining a steady rhythm.

Tab:

A         E        D
E|---0------0------2---|
B|---2------0------3---|
G|---2------1------2---|
D|---2------2------0---|
A|---0------2------x---|
E|---x------0------x---|

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51. “Hotel California” by Eagles

Hotel California chords:

Capo at 2nd fret.

“Hotel California” by Eagles is up there with the all-time greatest rock songs. It’s a bit of a stretch for complete beginners with 7 chords, but a challenge is good for you, right? And I’ve swapped out the dreaded F barre chord for an easier version too.

Chord chart for Hotel California by Eagles.

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52. “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” by Deep Blue Something

Chords: D, G, A

“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” by Deep Blue Something is a 90s classic that uses three easy chords. This catchy tune is great for beginners to practice strumming patterns and simple chord progressions.

Tab:

D         G        A
E|---2------3------0---|
B|---3------3------2---|
G|---2------0------2---|
D|---0------0------2---|
A|---x------2------0---|
E|---x------3------x---|

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53. “Where Is The Love?” by Black Eyed Peas

Chords: C, Am, Em, G

This is a great song for working on right-hand consistency. The chords themselves are straightforward, but the groove only works if your strumming stays locked in. If your rhythm drifts, you’ll feel it straight away.

It’s also a good reminder that you don’t need flashy playing to make something sound good. Keep the strumming relaxed, focus on staying in time, and let the song do the work. Once it clicks, it’s super satisfying to play all the way through without stopping.

Tab:

C         Am       Em       G
E|---0------0------0------3---|
B|---1------1------0------3---|
G|---0------2------0------0---|
D|---2------2------2------0---|
A|---3------0------2------2---|
E|---x------x------0------3---|

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54. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman

Chords: C, G, Em, D

“Fast Car” is all about endurance and control. The chord shapes aren’t difficult, but the song keeps going, which makes it perfect for learning how to stay relaxed over a longer stretch.

I always recommend starting with simple down-up strums and keeping everything gentle. This is one of those songs where playing less actually makes it sound better. If you can get through it without your strumming hand tensing up, nice work!

Tab:

C         G        Em       D
E|---0------3------0------2---|
B|---1------3------0------3---|
G|---0------0------0------2---|
D|---2------0------2------0---|
A|---3------2------2------x---|
E|---x------3------0------x---|

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55. “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars

Chords: C, Em, Am, G, F

This song is ideal for practising singing while playing. The chord changes are predictable, which frees up your brain to focus on the vocal phrasing.

If you’re new to singing and playing together, keep the strumming simple and steady. Don’t chase the record too closely at first. Once your hands know where they’re going, adding vocals feels much more natural.

Tab:

C         Em       Am       G        F
E|---0------0------0------3------1---|
B|---1------0------1------3------1---|
G|---0------0------2------0------2---|
D|---2------2------2------0------3---|
A|---3------2------0------2------3---|
E|---x------0------x------3------1---|

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56. “Cotton Fields” by Creedence Clearwater Revival

Chords: C, F, G

“Cotton Fields” is a confidence builder. It’s a classic three-chord song that rewards clean, steady strumming rather than speed or complexity.

This is a good one to play a little louder than usual and really lean into the rhythm. It’s also a great song to play with other people because the structure is simple and forgiving.

Tab:

C         F        G
E|---0------1------3---|
B|---1------1------3---|
G|---0------2------0---|
D|---2------3------0---|
A|---3------3------2---|
E|---x------1------3---|

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57. “About A Girl” by Nirvana

Chords: Em, G, C#5, G#5, F#5, E5

I love this one having grown up in the 90s and being a big Nirvana fan. It’s a brilliant step up from basic open chord songs as it has a few power chords in it too.

The verse moves between Em and G, and the chorus brings in power chords. That makes it a great introduction to playing something that sounds properly “rock” without being technically hard.

It’s repetitive, which helps. Once you’ve got the shape, you’re basically there.

It’s one of those songs that sounds cool even when it’s slightly messy. Which is ideal when you’re learning.

Check out my video at the top of the page to get a lesson on this one.

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58. “Have You Ever Seen The Rain?” by Creedence Clearwater Revival

Chords: C, G, F

This song is perfect for slow, expressive strumming. Nothing fancy is required here. The goal is smooth chord changes and an even feel.

It’s also a good exercise in restraint. Over-strumming can kill the vibe, so listen closely to the recording and aim for a relaxed, flowing rhythm.

Tab:

C         G        F
E|---0------3------1---|
B|---1------3------1---|
G|---0------0------2---|
D|---2------0------3---|
A|---3------2------3---|
E|---x------3------1---|

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59. “Margaritaville” by Jimmy Buffett

Chords: D, G, A, A7

“Margaritaville” is a great introduction to playing with a capo.

Once the shapes feel comfortable, try playing along to the record and locking into the laid-back groove. This is one of those songs that sounds better the more relaxed you are, so don’t rush it.

Tab:

D         G        A        A7
E|---2------3------0------0---|
B|---3------3------2------2---|
G|---2------0------2------0---|
D|---0------0------2------2---|
A|---x------2------0------0---|
E|---x------3------x------x---|

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60. “Banana Pancakes” by Jack Johnson

Chords: G, D, Em, Am

This is a fantastic song for learning when not to strum. The chords are easy, but the feel comes from leaving space and keeping everything light.

Start with simple strums before experimenting with lighter dynamics. This song teaches you that groove and touch matter just as much as the chords themselves.

Tab:

G         D        Em       Am
E|---3------2------0------0---|
B|---3------3------0------1---|
G|---0------2------0------2---|
D|---0------0------2------2---|
A|---2------x------2------0---|
E|---3------x------0------x---|

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61. “You Belong With Me” by Taylor Swift

Chords: D, A, Em, G

This is a great confidence-builder because the song keeps moving forward without throwing surprises at you. The chord changes fall under the fingers naturally, and the upbeat tempo helps you practise staying relaxed while playing faster than you might be used to. It’s also an excellent one for singing while playing, as the rhythm lines up closely with the vocal phrasing.

Tab:

D         A        Em       G
E|---2------0------0------3---|
B|---3------2------0------3---|
G|---2------2------0------0---|
D|---0------2------2------0---|
A|---x------0------2------2---|
E|---x------x------0------3---|

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62. “Don’t Look Back in Anger” by Oasis

Chords: C, G, Am, E, F

This song is all about right-hand consistency. The chord shapes themselves are manageable, but the real challenge is keeping your strumming steady across long sections without drifting. It’s a brilliant lesson in holding a groove and letting the song breathe instead of overplaying.

Tab:

C         G        Am       E        F
E|---0------3------0------0------1---|
B|---1------3------1------0------1---|
G|---0------0------2------1------2---|
D|---2------0------2------2------3---|
A|---3------2------0------2------x---|
E|---x------3------x------0------x---|

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63. “Daughter” by Pearl Jam

Chords: G, D, C, A

I grew up loving Pearl Jam and this is one of my favs. Daughter is ideal for learning when not to strum. The verses work best with a lighter touch, which helps you practise dynamics and restraint. It’s also a good introduction to letting chords ring rather than chopping everything short, which is a key skill for more atmospheric songs.

Tab:

G         D        C        A
E|---3------2------0------0---|
B|---3------3------1------2---|
G|---0------2------0------2---|
D|---0------0------2------2---|
A|---2------x------3------0---|
E|---3------x------x------x---|

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64. “Everybody Hurts” by R.E.M.

Chords: D, G, Em, A

I recommend this song a lot, not because it’s exciting, but because it’s forgiving. You get time to think between changes, and mistakes don’t derail the whole thing. It’s one of those songs that quietly improves your playing without you really noticing it happening.

Tab:

D         G        Em       A
E|---2------3------0------0---|
B|---3------3------0------2---|
G|---2------0------0------2---|
D|---0------0------2------2---|
A|---x------2------2------0---|
E|---x------3------0------x---|

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65. “One Love” by Bob Marley

Chords: C, G, Am, F

This is usually the point where people realise that rhythm matters more than chords. I’ve seen players who know all three shapes still struggle until they stop thinking and start listening. Once it clicks, though, it’s incredibly satisfying to play, especially with other people.

Tab:

C         G        Am       F
E|---0------3------0------1---|
B|---1------3------1------1---|
G|---0------0------2------2---|
D|---2------0------2------3---|
A|---3------2------0------3---|
E|---x------3------x------1---|

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66. “This Land is Your Land” by Woody Guthrie

Chords: D, G, A7

This song is a confidence booster for beginners who want to play something recognisable straight away. The chord changes are predictable, which makes it easier to focus on singing while playing. It’s also a great example of how folk songs rely on feel rather than complexity.

Tab:

D         G        A7
E|---2------3------0---|
B|---3------3------2---|
G|---2------0------0---|
D|---0------0------2---|
A|---x------2------0---|
E|---x------3------x---|

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67. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley

Can’t Help Falling In Love chords:

Okay, the 13 chords above might seem intimidating. But this song is worth it. And if you’re wanting to impress someone you care for, this song works a treat.

“Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley is such a beautiful song. I’ve found it’s great for beginners who are past the early stages and want to push themselves to work with more chords. It’s slow tempo helps with that too.

Chord chart for Can’t Help Falling In Love by Elvis Presley.

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68. “Stay With Me” by Sam Smith

Chords: Am, F, C

This is one of those songs where beginners realise how exposed slow playing really is. There’s nowhere to hide, which sounds scary, but it’s actually a good thing. If your chord changes are clean and your strumming is controlled, it sounds great very quickly. I often suggest this to people who rush, because it forces you to sit back and let the song breathe.

Tab:

Am        F        C
E|---0------1------0---|
B|---1------1------1---|
G|---2------2------0---|
D|---2------3------2---|
A|---0------3------3---|
E|---x------1------x---|

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69. “House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals

Chords: Am, C, D, F, E

This song feels like a rite of passage for a reason. It’s usually the first time beginners encounter a repeating picking pattern that actually sounds musical. I’ve seen people struggle at first, then suddenly it clicks and their confidence jumps overnight. Take it slowly and don’t worry about playing it fast. Control matters much more than speed here.

Tab:

Am        C        D        F        E
E|---0------0------2------1------0---|
B|---1------1------3------1------0---|
G|---2------0------2------2------1---|
D|---2------2------0------3------2---|
A|---0------3------x------3------2---|
E|---x------x------x------1------0---|

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70. “Stir It Up” by Bob Marley

Chords: A, D, E

This is where rhythm really starts to matter more than the chords themselves. The shapes are easy, but the feel isn’t. I’ve taught this to plenty of people who knew the chords but couldn’t make it groove until they stopped overthinking their strumming. Once you relax into it, it’s incredibly satisfying to play.

Tab:

A         D        E
E|---0------2------0---|
B|---2------3------0---|
G|---2------2------1---|
D|---2------0------2---|
A|---0------x------2---|
E|---x------x------0---|

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71. “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses (intro)

Chords: D, C, G

“Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses, particularly the intro, is a great choice for beginners who are ready to tackle some of rock’s most iconic riffs. The chord progression is simple, but the opening lick is a fun challenge for new players.

Tab:

D         C        G
E|---2------0------3---|
B|---3------1------3---|
G|---2------0------0---|
D|---0------2------0---|
A|---x------3------2---|
E|---x------x------3---|

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72. “A Team” by Ed Sheeran

Chords: G, D/F#, Em, C

This song comes up a lot with newer players because it sounds complicated but isn’t. The chord shapes repeat and the pattern settles in quickly once you stop chasing perfection. I’ve found it’s a good confidence builder for people who think modern acoustic songs are “too hard” for them. It’s also great to learn to wrap your thumb around the neck to grab the 2nd fret for the D/F# chord.

Tab:

G         D/F#     Em       C
E|---3------2------0------0---|
B|---3------3------0------1---|
G|---0------2------0------0---|
D|---0------0------2------2---|
A|---2------0------2------3---|
E|---3------2------0------x---|

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73. “All Apologies” by Nirvana

Chords: D, Dsus4, C

“All Apologies” by Nirvana is a grunge anthem that’s a great choice for beginner guitar players. I remember it clearly from Kurt Cobain’s iconic performance on MTV Unplugged in the 90s. Its use of only three chords, including a simple variation on D, makes it a straightforward but rewarding song to learn.

Tab:

D         Dsus4    C
E|---2------3------0---|
B|---3------3------1---|
G|---2------2------0---|
D|---0------0------2---|
A|---x------x------3---|
E|---x------x------x---|

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74. “With or Without You” by U2

Chords: D, A, Bm, G

If you can play this song without speeding up, you’re doing really well. It’s deceptively simple and exposes timing issues fast. I’ve seen players improve their consistency just by working on this one slowly and sticking with it all the way through.

Tab:

D         A        Bm       G
E|---2------0------2------3---|
B|---3------2------3------3---|
G|---2------2------4------0---|
D|---0------2------4------0---|
A|---x------0------2------2---|
E|---x------x------x------3---|

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75. “Folsom Prison Blues” by Johnny Cash

Chords: E, A, B7

This song teaches momentum. Once it gets going, you don’t stop. It’s great practice for keeping your right hand moving steadily while the chords change underneath. It’s also one of those songs that sounds better the more relaxed you are, which is a good lesson early on.

Tab:

E         A        B7
E|---0------0------2---|
B|---0------2------0---|
G|---1------2------2---|
D|---2------2------1---|
A|---2------0------2---|
E|---0------x------x---|

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76. “Ziggy Stardust” by David Bowie

Chords: G, Am, Em, C

This one sneaks more complexity in than it first appears. The chords aren’t hard, but the changes come in places beginners don’t always expect. It’s a good song for learning to anticipate what’s coming next rather than reacting at the last second.

Tab:

G         Am       Em       C
E|---3------0------0------0---|
B|---3------1------0------1---|
G|---0------2------0------0---|
D|---0------2------2------2---|
A|---2------0------2------3---|
E|---3------x------0------x---|

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77. “Hey, Soul Sister” by Train

Chords: E, B, C#m, A

This is often where beginners meet barre chords in a real song for the first time. That can feel like a wall, but it’s actually a great introduction because the rhythm is friendly and repetitive. Even getting part of this song under your fingers is a win.

Tab:

E         B        C#m     A
E|---0------x------4------0---|
B|---0------4------5------2---|
G|---1------4------6------2---|
D|---2------4------6------2---|
A|---2------2------4------0---|
E|---0------x------x------x---|

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78. “The Man Who Sold the World” by Nirvana (MTV Unplugged)

Chords: D, F#, C#, G#, A#, D#

Beware: contains barre chords!

Another one from Nirvana’s MTV Unplugged session “The Man Who Sold the World” from is a great pick for beginners who want to tackle an iconic performance. This version of the song (originally by David Bowie) simplifies the original’s complex arrangement and gives beginners the chance to practice barre chords.

Tab:

D         F#       C#      G#       A#       D#
E|---2------2------x------4-------1------6---|
B|---3------2------6------4-------3------8---|
G|---2------3------6------5-------3------8---|
D|---0------4------6------6-------3------8---|
A|---x------4------4------6-------1------6---|
E|---x------2------x------4-------x------x---|

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79. “Paint It Black” by Rolling Stones (intro)

Chords: Dm, Bb, F, C

This is a nice example of how a simple pattern can sound dramatic if you commit to it. It’s great for timing and control, especially if you tend to rush. Playing it cleanly at a steady pace is far more important than trying to sound intense.

Tab:

Dm        Bb       F        C
E|---1------1------1------0---|
B|---3------3------1------1---|
G|---2------3------2------0---|
D|---0------3------3------2---|
A|---x------1------3------3---|
E|---x------x------1------x---|

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80. “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri

Chords: C, Am, F, G, Em

This song rewards patience. The chords repeat, the tempo is calm, and mistakes don’t ruin the whole thing. I often recommend it to people who want to work on smooth changes without feeling under pressure.

Tab:

C         Am       F        G        Em
E|---0------0------1------3------0---|
B|---1------1------1------3------0---|
G|---0------2------2------0------0---|
D|---2------2------3------0------2---|
A|---3------0------3------2------2---|
E|---x------x------1------3------0---|

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81. “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran

Perfect chords:

Capo 1st fret.

Perfect by Ed Sheeran is one of our more challenging easy guitar songs. The chords are mostly the same as those in Wonderwall, which is a must for every begginer guitarist and number 2 on our list. Perfect has six chords in total, and a lovely plucked pattern. But complete beginners can start off by just strumming the chords in time with Ed.

Chord chart for Perfect by Ed Sheeran.

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82. “Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show/Darius Rucker

With a capo at the second fret the chords to Wagon Wheel are: G, D, Em, C.

“Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show (later covered by Darius Rucker) is a modern folk classic perfect for beginners due to its repetitive four-chord progression. It’s a fun, singalong song with a consistent rhythm.

Chord chart for Wagon Wheel by Old Crow Medicine Show and Darius Rucker.

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83. “More Than Words” by Extreme

Chords: G, C9, Am7, D

A great start with playing with fingers to get that percussive pluck and slap. Even simplified, it teaches independence between fingers and control over dynamics. Don’t worry if it takes time – it’s not for total beginners that’s for sure. Bonus points if you can hit the high notes.

Tab:

G         C9       Am7      D
E|---3------3------0------2---|
B|---3------3------1------3---|
G|---0------0------0------2---|
D|---0------2------2------0---|
A|---2------3------0------x---|
E|---3------x------x------x---|

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84. “She Will Be Loved” by Maroon 5

Chords: Bm, A, E, G

This song often surprises beginners because it looks harder on paper than it feels in practice. Once the progression settles in, it’s very playable. It’s also good for learning how to keep things gentle instead of strumming everything the same way.

Tab:

Bm        A        E        G
E|---2------0------0------3---|
B|---3------2------0------3---|
G|---4------2------1------0---|
D|---4------2------2------0---|
A|---2------0------2------2---|
E|---x------x------0------3---|

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85. “Your Song” by Elton John

Chords: Em, A, D, G, Bm, C, F#m

There’s a lot going on here, but the pace gives you room to think. It’s a good example of a song where understanding the flow matters more than nailing every chord perfectly. Focus on staying calm and musical.

Tab:

Em        A        D        G        Bm       C        F#m
E|---0------0------2------3------2------0------2---|
B|---0------2------3------3------3------1------2---|
G|---0------2------2------0------4------0------2---|
D|---2------2------0------0------4------2------4---|
A|---2------0------x------2------2------3------4---|
E|---0------x------x------3------x------x------2---|

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86. “Hero” by Enrique Iglesias

Chords: G, Em, C, D

This is a solid confidence song. The changes are predictable and the rhythm stays friendly. I’ve seen people use this as a stepping stone into more emotional playing rather than just mechanical strumming.

Tab:

G         Em       C        D
E|---3------0------0------2---|
B|---3------0------1------3---|
G|---0------0------0------2---|
D|---0------2------2------0---|
A|---2------2------3------x---|
E|---3------0------x------x---|

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87. “Hurt” by Johnny Cash

Chords: Am, C, D, G, F

This song teaches restraint better than almost anything else on the list. Playing less is the whole point. If you can resist the urge to overplay here, you’re developing real musical judgement.

Tab:

Am        C        D        G        F
E|---0------0------2------3------1---|
B|---1------1------3------3------1---|
G|---2------0------2------0------2---|
D|---2------2------0------0------3---|
A|---0------3------x------2------3---|
E|---x------x------x------3------1---|

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88. “Just The Way You Are” by Bruno Mars

Chords: F, Dm, Bb

This is often one of the first times beginners meet chords that require a bit more hand strength. It’s a good challenge without being overwhelming. Take breaks, keep your hand relaxed, and don’t force it.

Tab:

F         Dm       Bb
E|---1------1------1---|
B|---1------3------3---|
G|---2------2------3---|
D|---3------0------3---|
A|---3------x------1---|
E|---1------x------x---|

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89. “Royals” by Lorde

Chords: D, C, G

Minimalism is the lesson here. The chords repeat, the rhythm stays steady, and the space between notes matters. It’s great for players who tend to fill every gap with strumming.

Tab:

D         C        G
E|---2------0------3---|
B|---3------1------3---|
G|---2------0------0---|
D|---0------2------0---|
A|---x------3------2---|
E|---x------x------3---|

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90. “Counting Stars” by OneRepublic

Chords: Am, C, G, F

This is a good endurance song. The progression keeps looping and you need to stay consistent for the whole track. If you can keep this steady from start to finish, your rhythm is in a good place.

Tab:

Am        C        G        F
E|---0------0------3------1---|
B|---1------1------3------1---|
G|---2------0------0------2---|
D|---2------2------0------3---|
A|---0------3------2------3---|
E|---x------x------3------1---|

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91. “Wake Me Up” by Avicii

Chords: Bm, G, D, A

This song bridges acoustic playing and modern pop really nicely. The chord changes are friendly, but the tempo asks you to stay alert. It’s great practice for keeping energy without rushing.

Tab:

Bm        G        D        A
E|---2------3------2------0---|
B|---3------3------3------2---|
G|---4------0------2------2---|
D|---4------0------0------2---|
A|---2------2------x------0---|
E|---x------3------x------x---|

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92. “The Boxer” by Simon and Garfunkel

Chords: C, Am, G, Em

This is a song where repetition becomes your friend. The more you play it, the more comfortable it feels. It’s especially good for working on singing and playing together without overcomplicating things.

Tab:

C         Am       G        Em
E|---0------0------3------0---|
B|---1------1------3------0---|
G|---0------2------0------0---|
D|---2------2------0------2---|
A|---3------0------2------2---|
E|---x------x------3------0---|

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93. “Jolene” by Dolly Parton

Jolene chords:

Capo on 4th fret.

“Jolene” by Dolly Parton is a classic that reached beyond country and into the mainstream. Its chord progression is relatively simple, making it a good fit for beginners. It’s also a fantastic song to learn strumming techniques on.

Chord chart for Jolene by Dolly Parton.

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94. “Best Day of My Life” by American Authors

Chords: D, G, Bm, A

This one is all about momentum and confidence. It’s upbeat, forgiving, and fun to play. Perfect for reminding yourself that guitar should feel enjoyable, not stressful.

Tab:

D         G        Bm       A
E|---2------3------2------0---|
B|---3------3------3------2---|
G|---2------0------4------2---|
D|---0------0------4------2---|
A|---x------2------2------0---|
E|---x------3------x------x---|

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95. “Torn” by Natalie Imbruglia

Chords: D, Em, G, A

This song sits right in the sweet spot for beginners. The chords are familiar, the rhythm is steady, and it rewards smooth transitions. It’s a great song for polishing rather than learning something brand new.

Tab:

D         Em       G        A
E|---2------0------3------0---|
B|---3------0------3------2---|
G|---2------0------0------2---|
D|---0------2------0------2---|
A|---x------2------2------0---|
E|---x------0------3------x---|

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96. “You’re Gonna Go Far, Kid” by The Offspring

Chords: C, F, A#

This is where energy meets simplicity. The chords are straightforward, but the drive of the song pushes you to keep going. It’s great for building confidence with louder, more aggressive playing.

Tab:

C         F        A#
E|---0------1------1---|
B|---1------1------3---|
G|---0------2------3---|
D|---2------3------3---|
A|---3------3------1---|
E|---x------1------x---|

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97. “The Scientist” by Coldplay

Chords: Dm, Bb, F, C

This song teaches patience. The changes are slow and predictable, but that makes every mistake obvious. Take your time and focus on making each chord ring clearly.

Tab:

Dm        Bb       F        C
E|---1------1------1------0---|
B|---3------3------1------1---|
G|---2------3------2------0---|
D|---0------3------3------2---|
A|---x------1------3------3---|
E|---x------x------1------x---|

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98. “Say It Ain’t So” by Weezer

Chords: C#, G#, F#, B, Fm

This is a good introduction to mixing arpeggios and full strums. It helps bridge the gap between rhythm and lead thinking. Don’t worry about copying the original exactly. Understanding the feel is more important.

Tab:

C#        G#       F#       B        Fm
E|---1------4------2------2------1---|
B|---2------4------2------4------1---|
G|---1------5------3------4------1---|
D|---3------6------4------4------3---|
A|---4------6------4------2------3---|
E|---x------4------2------x------1---|

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99. “Closing Time” by Semisonic

Chords: G, D, Am, C

This is one of those songs that feels easy but tests your consistency. It’s also instantly recognisable, which makes it a great confidence booster once you can play it cleanly all the way through.

Tab:

G         D        Am       C
E|---3------2------0------0---|
B|---3------3------1------1---|
G|---0------2------2------0---|
D|---0------0------2------2---|
A|---2------x------0------3---|
E|---3------x------x------x---|

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100. “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers

The Aint No Sunshine chords are Am, Em, G and Dm.

Last but definitely not least, “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers is an incredible beginner song because of it’s slow pace and use of just four simple chords. And the chord progression repeats throughout the song, making it a perfect practice piece for beginners who are mastering chord transitions. It was one of the first songs I ever learned, way back in the 90s, so I hope you enjoy it too.

Chord chart for Ain’t No Sunshine by Bill Withers.

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