Discover the Magic of Simple Open Chord Songs for Beginners
As a guitarist, you might have wondered if there are any songs that can be played with just one open chord. The answer is yes, and to demonstrate, I have written a brief composition that traces the notes of an E chord. Delightfully simple, this piece can be dubbed as The E Song. It is a great way to introduce yourself to basic guitar playing without the complications of more complex chords.
A Case Study: The E Song
While The E Song is unique in its simplicity, it's important to recognize other songs that are similarly easy to play. One notable mention is Folsom Prison Blues by Johnny Cash. This iconic song is known for its tempo challenges, yet grasping the melody and rhythm is quite manageable for beginners. The song’s repetitive structure and straightforward chords make it an excellent choice for learning and experimenting with open chords.
Exploring Other One-Open-Chord Songs
Another favorite among beginners is the popular 1992 track by 4 Non Blondes, What's Up. This pop classic is particularly memorable for its simplicity and catchy chorus. With only three chords—G, Am, and C—this song offers a smooth learning curve for those starting out. However, if you are aiming for the original key, you can use a capo placed at the second fret for the chord shapes G, Am, and C. Without a capo, these chords translate to A, Bm, and D on the guitar. The Bm chord, which typically requires a barre, can be played easily with a capo on the second fret.
Why Not Complicate It?
For those beginners who are new to the realm of music theory, playing in keys like Ab, Bb, and Eb can seem daunting due to the presence of flat notes and the complexity of barre chords. However, a simple trick can make playing these songs more accessible. By ignoring the flats and simply enduring the piece in the keys of A or E, you can effectively transpose the music to a more comfortable key for your playing level. This approach simplifies the task of learning and playing songs in more complicated keys, making the experience less intimidating and more fun.
Conclusion
Simple open chord songs like The E Song offer a fantastic starting point for aspiring musicians. They encourage experimentation and allow for a smoother learning curve as you develop both your technique and musicality. The What's Up and Folsom Prison Blues are excellent examples of how powerful and engaging these songs can be. Whether you are looking to make your first foray into playing guitar or just looking for a fun and easy way to unwind, exploring these simple chord songs can provide immense satisfaction and joy as you strum your way through a playlist of easy tunes.