There's no better feeling than being moved by the soulful strumming of an acoustic guitar that aligns with good music. Acoustic guitar songs have a special charm, with the focus often on the musician's voice and their skillful guitar accompaniment. Whether you're into R&B, rock, or any other genre, an acoustic song will speak to your soul.
Over the years, many music legends have made their mark with acoustic performances. The beauty of the acoustic guitar lies in its ability to produce rich, captivating sounds while being easy to maintain. It's the perfect companion for your vocals, whether belting out heartfelt ballads or rocking out to your favorite folk music tunes.
We have some great news for you if you're commencing your acoustic guitar journey. Below, we have compiled a list of the best acoustic guitar songs for beginners so you can start playing your favorite tunes in no time!
Our Top 10 Best Songs for Beginners to Learn on Acoustic Guitar
1. “Son” by Logan Ransley
"Son" was released on May 16, 2024, by Logan Ransley. It's an indie folk song that explores the special bond between a mother and her child. The lyrics express a child's worries about their mother's well-being and the deep emotions that come with their relationship. It's a beautiful and heartfelt reflection of the strong connection and longing between a mother and her son.
This classic features is tuned to Open D, and starts on the G chord. Chord charts for this song will be coming soon.
If you like this song, you might want to explore other tracks by Logan Ransley, including “Crossroads”, “All I Want”, and “I Don't Know Where I'm Going”.
2. “Knockin' on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan
"Knockin' on Heaven's Door" is a classic folk-rock tune released by Bob Dylan in 1991. The song has been featured in a bunch of movies during those very important scenes. What is literally cool about this song is that it is so simple to play on the guitar.
Difficulty: Beginner
Tuning: E A D G B E
Key: G
Capo: No capo
Learn how to play "Knockin' on Heaven’s Door"
The lyrics of the song are so emotional, and the melody is super catchy. That's why it's been covered by so many acoustic guitar players over the years. It's one of those songs that just sticks with you, irrespective of your mood.
Listen to “Knockin' on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan on YouTube
3. “Photograph” by Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran is one of those singers who doesn't really need an introduction – his music is everywhere these days. This particular indie folk song was released in the summer of 2014 and made its way onto the Billboard charts. Ed Sheeran is known for his incredible talent with the acoustic guitar, and "Photograph" is no exception.
Difficulty: Intermediate
Tuning: E A D G B E
Key: C
Capo: 4th Fret
Learn how to play "Photograph"
The cool thing about this song is that the chords are easy for acoustic guitar players to learn.
And get this – Ed wrote this song while he was on tour, missing his girlfriend. So, it's got this personal touch that makes it even more special.
Listen to ”Photograph” by Ed Sheeran on YouTube
4. “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers
Bill Withers is a renowned figure in the music world – he's got three Grammy awards and a bunch of nominations under his belt. So, this song has this amazing blues and R&B vibe that just makes you want to sway along. It came out in 1971 as part of Bill Withers' very first album called "Just As I Am.
Difficulty: Absolute beginner
Tuning: E A D G B E
Key: Am
Capo: No capo
Learn how to play “Ain't No Sunshine”
This classic hit is one of the best songs to learn on acoustic guitar. The story behind the song is pretty interesting too. Bill was inspired by a movie called "Days of Wine and Roses" which talked about the struggles of regular folks dealing with alcoholism.
Listen to “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers on YouTube
5. “The Only Exception” by Paramore
"The Only Exception" by Paramore is a beautiful song released in February 2010 as the third single from their third album. The song originally began as a short, simple tune that consisted of just the guitar and vocals. Harley Williams, one of the band members, came up with the initial idea while working with Josh. But when they performed the verse to the rest of the band, they completely blew their minds, inspiring the team to make a full song out of it.
Difficulty: Intermediate
Tuning: E A D G B E
Key: B
Capo: 4th Fret
Learn how to play “The Only Exception”
One remarkable thing about this song is that it's very suitable for acoustic guitar players who are still beginners. The chords are basic hence you don’t need to learn many chords to be in tune with this song.
Listen to “The Only Exception” by Paramore on YouTube
6. “Hotel California” by The Eagles
"Hotel California" is a classic rock hit recorded by The Eagles in 1976, featuring Don Henley as the vocalist. It has such a tremendous storyline and some pretty mind-blowing guitar works that have appealed to so many people.
Difficulty: Beginner
Tuning: E A D G B E
Key: Bm
Capo: 2nd Fret
Learn how to play “Hotel California”
This song is one of the best songs to learn on acoustic guitar. The long guitar solo in this song was ranked as the best solo guitar of all time in a Guitarist magazine poll conducted in 1988. Also, it became the Record of the Year awarded by the Grammy Committee in 1978.
Listen to “Hotel California” by The Eagles on YouTube
7. “Paper Hearts” by Tori Kelly
Tori Kelly started as a YouTube sensation when she was just a teenager. She even made it to Hollywood Week on American Idol in 2010 because of her amazing skills in the acoustic guitar. Since then, she has been acquiring Grammys and charting on billboards with great songs in the music world.
Difficulty: Intermediate
Tuning: E A D G B E
Capo: 3rd Fret
Learn how to play "Paper Hearts"
“Paper Hearts” is one of these songs, which certainly strikes you when it comes to past relationships. The beauty of this song lies in its simplicity, with just four chords to learn, it is an ideal song for acoustic guitar players who are just starting with the guitar.
Listen to “Paper Hearts” by Tori Kelly on YouTube
8. “You’re So Vain” by Carly Simon
"You're So Vain" is a powerful song by Carly Simon that was released in 1972. This song probably has one of the most catchy hooks you would ever hear. This song is ideal for acoustic guitar players who are beginners.
Difficulty: Beginner
Tuning: E A D G B E
Key: C
Capo: No Capo
Learn how to play “You’re So Vain”
One of the remarkable things about this song is that it has this instantly recognizable riff that you can't help but groove along to. As for the chords, this classic '70s pop song keeps things smooth and jazzy. You just need to be accustomed to four easy chords and once you get the hang of these chords, the rhythm of this song is quite catchy.
Listen to “You’re So Vain” by Carly Simon on YouTube
9. “Jolene” by Dolly Parton
This classic is more than just a musical tune; it's packed with all the heartfelt emotion that Dolly Parton poured into every single word. It is also one of those songs that, as a guitar player you will enjoy learning and as well playing.
Difficulty: Absolute beginner
Tuning: E A D G B E
Key: C#m
Capo: 4th Fret
"Jolene" is a classic country song that can be rightfully attributed to the list of the most memorable hits of this genre. It tells the story of a woman who is quite sincere in her desire to prevent a man from leaving her for another woman. The performing vocals are touching and can get you right in the heart. Also, this song features some catchy fingerstyle, so you get to bring out that country vibe on your guitar.
Listen to “Jolene” by Dolly Parton on YouTube
10. “Hard Place” by H.E.R.
H.E.R. dropped this gem as a single from her fifth EP back in April 2019. When she wrote this song, she turned to the acoustic guitar and accompanied it with chords that originated from Nashville. The song is all about being in a position where you know that something isn’t right for you but you do not know what it is that you need.
Difficulty: Intermediate
Tuning: E A D G B E
Capo: No Capo
Learn how to play “Hard Place”
It is that kind of struggle of managing emotions that many of us find ourselves in most of the time. It has both elements of real life and a fairy tale. The song is based on H.E.R.’s experience when she was in a duo with her boyfriend making music before she got signed to a record label and went solo.
Listen to “Hard Place” by H.E.R. on YouTube
Bonus: “Expectation” by Logan Ransley
"Expectation" by Logan Ransley shares a common theme with many acoustic guitar songs in its exploration of deep emotions and personal struggles. The song's mixture of folk rock, country, and blues suits well for thoughts regarding social anxieties and the struggle between personal aspirations and external expectations.
Start Playing Your Favorite Acoustic Guitar Songs Today
In conclusion, acoustic guitar songs have a timeless charm that captivates listeners and evokes deep emotions. From folk rock to country music and everything in between, there is a wide range of genres to explore on the acoustic guitar. The best part is that plenty of acoustic guitar songs are perfect for beginners to learn and play. Whether it's the heartfelt lyrics of "Son" by Logan Ransley or the iconic melody of "Hotel California" by The Eagles, these songs offer a great starting point for any aspiring acoustic guitarist. So grab your guitar, learn a few chords, and make the most of your favorite acoustic songs from today!