Beginner-Friendly Songs for Learning to Play Guitar (Top 25 Beginner Guitar Songs)

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Written By Gary Daws

Chief Music Officer

Learning to play guitar can be a daunting task for many beginners. With so many chords, scales, and songs to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to start.

Fortunately, there are many beginner-friendly songs that are easy to learn and play. In this article, we will provide an overview of some of the most recommended songs that beginner guitarists can learn.

These songs were used when I taught in-person lessons all the time. Depending on the player and their interests I would customize the list. But all of them are great for beginners looking for some tunes to get stuck into.

20 Songs You MUST Learn On Guitar

  1. Smoke on the Water
  2. Backwards Down The Number Line
  3. Simple Man
  4. Horse with No Name
  5. Leaving on a Jet Plane
  6. House of the Rising Sun
  7. We Must Stand Together
  8. Wagon Wheel
  9. Boulevard of Broken Dreams
  10. Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door
  11. Happy Birthday
  12. Every Rose Has Its Thorn
  13. On the Wings of a Snow White Dove
  14. Maggie May
  15. Hey Good Looking
  16. Born in the USA
  17. A Horse With No Name
  18. Stand by Me
  19. Johnny Johnny, Yes Papa
  20. Walk the Line
  21. Good Riddance
  22. Go Tell Aunt Rosie
  23. Hurt
  24. Just the Way You Are
  25. She’s in Love with Rodeo Man

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, there are many beginner-friendly songs available for those who are just starting to learn how to play guitar. Songs like “Smoke on the Water” and “Backwards Down The Number Line” are great for beginners due to their simplicity. Other songs, such as “Horse with No Name” and “Leaving on a Jet Plane,” use only a few chords, making them easy to learn. Additionally, there are many beginner-friendly songs available in various genres, including rock, country, and pop. With so many options available, beginners can find a song that they enjoy playing and can use to develop their skills.