Learn Easy Guitar Songs with Just a Few Chords
If you're just starting out on guitar, it can feel overwhelming trying to decide what to play. But don’t worry—some of the most fun and rewarding songs to learn only use a few simple chords. In this post, we’ll walk you through three classic beginner songs that are perfect for practicing chord shapes, building strumming confidence, and having fun. Whether you’re picking up a guitar for the very first time or brushing up on the basics, these songs will get you playing real music fast. Let’s dive in!
1. "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star"
Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star is a super simple and fun song for beginner students, and great for practicing the fundamental chord shapes!
Chords Used:
- C major
- G major
- F major
How to Play the chords:
C major
Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string (2nd) string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (4th) string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string (5th) string
G major
Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string (5th) string, your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string (6th) string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string (1st) string
F major
Place your fingers on the 1st fret of the B string (2nd) string, 2nd fret of the G string (3rd) string, 3rd fret of the D string (4th) (This is a modified F major chord. There are multiple ways to play each chord so don’t be confused if this chord appeared differently in future songs!)
Strumming Pattern:
You can keep it simple with down strums (D) to match the melody. Try this pattern:
D D D D (4 beats per line)
Song Structure:
The song repeats its melody a few times, so it’s perfect for practicing chord changes:
C
Twinkle, Twinkle, little star
F
G
C
How I wonder what you are
C
G
Up above the world so high
C
G
Like a diamond in the sky
C
Twinkle, Twinkle, little star
F
G
C
How I wonder what you are
2. Knockin’ On Heavens Door
This song uses just four chords, making it super easy to play once you get the hang of it.
Chords Used:
- G major
- D major
- Am (minor)
- C major
How to Play:
G major
Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the A (5th) string, your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the low E (6th) string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the high E (1st) string
D major
Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the E (1st) string, then place your index finger 2nd fret of the G (3rd) string, finally place your ring finger one the 3rd fret of the B (2nd) string
A minor
Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B (2nd) string, then place your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the G (3rd) string, finally place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D (4th) string
C major
Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B (2nd) string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D (4th) string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A (5th) string
Strumming Pattern:
For a laid-back feel, use down strums in a simple rhythm. Two down strums for G, two down strums for D and four down strums for Am and C.
Song Structure:
The song is really easy because the same four chords repeat for the entire song. These four chord are also extremely popular. Once these chords are mastered, you’ll be able to play thousands of other songs. Follow along with the arrangement and you’ll be playing this song in no time!
3. "Happy Birthday"
A classic song that you’ll love playing at birthday parties! It uses only three basic chords.
Chords Used:
- C major
- G major
- F major
How to Play:
C major
Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string (2nd) string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (4th) string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string (5th) string
G major
Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string (5th) string, your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string (6th) string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string (1st) string
F major
Place your fingers on the 1st fret of the B string (2nd) string, 2nd fret of the G string (3rd) string, 3rd fret of the D string (4th) (This is a modified F major chord. There are multiple ways to play each chord so don’t be confused if this chord appeared differently in future songs!)
Strumming Pattern:
Since "Happy Birthday" has a simple, flowing melody, you can use down strums (marked with D for down stroke). Try this pattern:
D D D D for each line of lyrics, and adjust for faster or slower tempo as needed.
Song Structure:
The song is short and repeats the same chords for different lines.
C
G
Happy birthday to you
C
Happy birthday to you
F
Happy birthday dear,____________
C
G
C
Happy birthday to you!
Quick Tips for All Songs:
- Start Slow: When you're first learning, it’s important to start slow so you can focus on clean chord changes and accurate strumming.
- Practice Chord Transitions: Work on switching between chords smoothly. If you get stuck, slow down and focus on just two chords until you feel comfortable.
- Use a Metronome: A metronome can help you keep a steady rhythm, which is especially useful for beginners.
- Have Fun!: Remember, music is about enjoying the process. If you mess up, just laugh it off and try again. Every time you play, you get a little better!
These songs are perfect for beginners to practice and will help you build confidence as you progress. Take your time with each one, and soon you’ll be strumming and singing along!