Easy Electric Guitar Songs for Beginners: A Guide to Learning Basics Through Classic Tunes

Starting your journey on the electric guitar can be overwhelming, but with the right guidance, playing easy guitar songs can be a fun and rewarding experience. In this article, we will explore some classic and beginner-friendly songs that you can play on your electric guitar, helping you build a strong foundation in chords and progressions. We'll also discuss some essential skills every beginner should master.

Classic Chords for Beginner Guitarists

As a beginner, it's crucial to learn the basic chord forms and their variations. Mastering the E, A, D, G, and C chord forms is the first step in your journey. Major and minor versions of these chords are particularly useful. You can find detailed finger charts online to help you master these essential chords.

Bar Chords: Taking Your Skills to the Next Level

Once you've got the basic chords down, the next step is to learn how to bar or barre the E and A forms. Barre chords require you to press down with the first finger on multiple strings at the same time. Once you've mastered these, you'll be able to play a vast array of songs. Think of them as the building blocks for more complex progressions.

3-Chord Progressions and the Blues

Understanding 3-chord progressions is key for new guitarists, as it allows you to play a wide range of songs with minimal effort. For example, the 1-4-5 progression can be easily adapted to different keys. A popular progression in the key of A is G-C-D, while in the key of E, it is E-A-B. Learning these can open up the world of music for you.

Recommendations for Easy Electric Guitar Songs

Here are some beginner-friendly songs that you can play on the electric guitar:

Good Night Irene - Lead Belly: This classic folk song can be played using full open chords (A, D, E), making it a great starting point. Matchbox Blues: Also in A, this song introduces you to two-string chords and playing a standard simple blues riff. 12-Bar Blues in E: Covering E, E, A, B, this song helps you practice moving between barre chord versions. Silent Night: Adapted from "That's Alright Mama," this song is in the key of G and can be played with G, C, D progressions.

Each of these songs introduces different elements that help you build your skills progressively. Start with simpler songs and gradually move to more complex ones as you gain confidence and skill.

Additional Tips for Beginners

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind as you begin your journey on the electric guitar:

Select the Right Guitar: Invest in a good quality electric guitar that suits your budget. Have a professional set it up for the best action to ensure comfort and ease of playing. Get a Digital Tuner: Tuning is crucial for great sound. A digital tuner will help you stay in tune and play your chords accurately. Learn from a Guide: Consider getting the The Folksinger’s Guitar Guide for comprehensive lessons and tips tailored to beginners. Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Set aside time each day to practice your chords, scales, and songs. Enjoy the Process: Have fun with your music. Enjoying the process will make your learning journey more fulfilling.

Starting with these songs and tips, you'll soon find yourself strumming away and enjoying the music you've always dreamed of playing. Happy strumming!