~ by Turja Das Gupta
Guitar & Ukulele Head
Top Artist Songs for Beginner Guitar Players
Learning the guitar is one of the most rewarding musical journeys you can take. But as a beginner guitar player, it can feel overwhelming. So many artists, so many songs, and so many different chord shapes! The key is to start with songs that use simple chord progressions, basic strumming patterns, and recognizable melodies. That way, you not only learn quickly but also gain confidence even if you are a beginner guitar player as you hear yourself playing real music.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the famous songs from top guitar artists that are perfect for beginner guitar players. Each song will come with its chord progression and a few practical tips on strumming and rhythm. By the end, you’ll have a roadmap of songs to practice that gradually build your skills.
Why Learn Songs Early On?
Many beginners spend weeks just memorizing chords or practicing scales. While that’s important, the real motivation comes when you can actually play a song you love. Learning songs helps you:
- Practice chord transitions naturally.
- Improve your rhythm and timing.
- Build finger strength without getting bored.
- Stay motivated by playing music you actually enjoy.
1. The Beatles – Classics for Every Beginner
The Beatles wrote some of the most timeless and accessible songs in popular music. Their tunes often use just 3–4 open chords, making them perfect for a beginner guitar player.
Let It Be
- Chords: C – G – Am – F
- Strumming: Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up (DDUUDU)
C G Am F
When I find myself in times of trouble
C G F C
Mother Mary comes to me
This progression (C–G–Am–F) is one of the most common in music and will come up in countless other songs.
Yellow Submarine
- Chords: G – D – C
- Strumming: Down-Down-Up, Down-Up
G D
We all live in a yellow submarine
C G
Yellow submarine, yellow submarine
A fun sing-along song that works great with group practice.
2. Bob Dylan – Storytelling with Simple Chords
Bob Dylan is one of the most famous solo guitar artists. His music is rooted in folk, which is why it often uses very basic progressions. These are excellent for strumming practice for beginner guitar player.
Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door
- Chords: G – D – Am – C
- Strumming: Slow, steady down strums or DDUUDU
G D
Mama, take this badge off of me
Am C
I can’t use it anymore
This is one of the most taught beginner songs worldwide—simple chords, easy tempo.
Blowin’ in the Wind
- Chords: G – C – D
- Strumming: Basic down strums
This song lets you focus on smooth chord changes rather than fancy strumming.
3. Oasis – Britpop Anthems for Beginners
Oasis songs are incredibly popular among beginner guitar players because they sound great even with simple strumming.
Wonderwall
- Chords: Em7 – G – Dsus4 – A7sus4 – Cadd9
- Capo: 2nd fret
- Strumming: DDUUDU (famous pattern)
Em G D A
Today is gonna be the day that they’re gonna throw it back to you
A campfire classic that every beginner guitarist should know.
Don’t Look Back in Anger
- Chords: C – G – Am – E – F
- Strumming: Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up
4. Ed Sheeran – Modern Pop with Simple Chords
Ed Sheeran often uses looping and fingerpicking live, but his core songs are based on very simple chord structures making them a must for beginner guitar players.
Perfect
- Chords: G – Em – C – D
- Strumming: Slow ballad strum (Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up)
G Em
I found a love for me
C D
Darling, just dive right in
Photograph
- Chords: D – Bm – A – G
- Picking (optional): Simple alternating bass note + chord strum
5. Coldplay – Dreamy Tunes with Easy Progressions
Coldplay’s songs usually revolve around repetitive patterns that are perfect for beginner guitar player practice.
Yellow
- Chords: C – F – G
- Strumming: Down-Down-Up
C
Look at the stars
F G
Look how they shine for you
The Scientist
- Chords: Dm – Bb – F – C
- Strumming: Slow ballad, down strums
6. Green Day – Punk Simplicity with Power Chords
Green Day is fantastic for beginner guitar players who want to get into power chords and a rock sound.
Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)
- Chords: G – C – D – Em
- Strumming: Picking intro, then DDUUDU
G C D
Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road
Boulevard of Broken Dreams
- Chords: Em – G – D – A (mostly power chords)
Great for practicing sliding power chord shapes.
7. Taylor Swift – Pop-Country Simplicity
Taylor Swift’s early songs especially are built on very easy progressions, perfect for beginner guitar players, specially for all Swifties.
Love Story
- Chords: C – G – Am – F
- Strumming: DDUUDU
C G
We were both young
Am F
When I first saw you
Shake It Off
- Chords: Am – C – G – D
- Strumming: Steady pop rhythm
Pro Tips for Beginners
- Start Slow – Don’t rush chord changes. Play at half speed until transitions feel natural.
- Use a Metronome – Rhythm is everything. Practicing with a metronome builds timing.
- Simplify Strumming – If a pattern feels hard, start with simple down strums.
- Capo is Your Friend – Many songs become easier to sing and play with a capo.
- Build Muscle Memory – The more you repeat transitions (C → G, D → A, etc.), the smoother they become.
So grab your guitar, pick one song from this list, and start strumming today! Explore acoustic guitar and electric guitar courses. And book a free trial class today!
-Turja Das Gupta
Guitar and Ukulele Head
Spardha School of Music