The acoustic guitar has always been one of my favorite instruments because of its versatility and the way it offers such a rich, resonant sound. Whether you’re just starting out or a more experienced player looking to up your game, learning new songs is key to improving your skills.
In this guide, I’ll walk you on a journey, sharing some of the best songs for acoustic guitar, starting from beginner-friendly tunes and moving up to more advanced pieces that showcase just how deep acoustic guitar music can go.
What Makes the Acoustic Guitar Relevant?
Before I dive into the best songs for acoustic guitar, it's worth considering why this instrument holds such a special place in music. The acoustic guitar’s portability, combined with its ability to produce both raw emotion and intricate melodies, makes it a staple in so many genres including folk, country, rock, and pop. With its ability to convey raw emotion or intricate melodies, the acoustic guitar bridges the gap between simplicity and complexity.
Beginner-Friendly Acoustic Guitar Songs
As a beginner, you should look for songs that are both easy and fun to play. The key is finding simple chord progressions and straightforward strumming patterns that help you develop your skills without getting too frustrated by technical difficulties. Here are some of the best beginner acoustic guitar songs to consider:
1. ‘Expectation’ by Logan Ransley
For those just starting, “Expectations” by Logan Ransley is a perfect introduction to the acoustic guitar music genre. It's one of the best beginner acoustic guitar songs you should consider. This folk-rock classic requires strumming with basic easy chords like Em, A, and C, making it ideal for players who are still getting comfortable with changing between chords.
2. ‘Knockin' on Heaven's Door’ by Bob Dylan
Another great entry for beginners is Bob Dylan’s iconic “Knockin' on Heaven's Door.” Using a simple chord progression of G, D, Am, and C, this song is easy to memorize and play. Its slow tempo also makes it perfect for practice sessions, allowing you to focus on smooth transitions between the chords.
3. ‘Let It Be’ by The Beatles
“Let It Be” combines basic chords (C, G, Am, F) with a steady strumming pattern, making it a great choice for newbies. Not only is it easy to learn, but it also gives beginners the satisfaction of playing a timeless classic by The Beatles.
4. ‘Wagon Wheel’ by Old Crow Medicine Show
“Wagon Wheel” is a modern folk standard and one of the best beginner acoustic guitar songs. The chord progression (G, D, Em, C) repeats throughout the entire song, allowing you to focus on rhythm and consistency.
5. ‘Amazing Grace’ by Hayley Westenra
For those who are interested in Christian folk music, “Amazing Grace” is an excellent song to start with. This classic hymn uses open chords like G, C, and D and features a slow, reflective strumming pattern.
Songs for Intermediate Acoustic Guitar Players
As you progress beyond the basics, you’ll want to explore songs that challenge your growing skills while introducing more complex techniques such as fingerpicking, barre chords, and more intricate strumming patterns.
1. ‘Blackbird’ by The Beatles
Being a hallmark of fingerstyle guitar, “Blackbird” is one of the best songs for acoustic guitar to learn as you transition from beginner to intermediate playing. It’s a great introduction to fingerpicking and a milestone for any acoustic guitarist.
2. ‘Fast Car’ by Tracy Chapman
With its memorable riff and rhythmic strumming pattern, “Fast Car” is a classic that will take your guitar skills to the next level. The song features both a fingerpicked intro and basic chords, making it accessible to intermediate players looking to balance rhythm with melody.
3. ‘Tears in Heaven’ by Eric Clapton
“Tears in Heaven” is a delicate ballad that introduces players to more advanced fingerpicking techniques and barre chords. The song also helps you develop your ability to transition smoothly between open and barre chords.
4. ‘Wonderwall’ by Oasis
Though its chord progression is simple, “Wonderwall” includes strumming patterns that challenge intermediate players to work on their rhythm and timing. The use of suspended chords adds a layer of complexity.
5. ‘Dust in the Wind’ by Kansas
“Dust in the Wind” is perfect for intermediate players. The song uses a repeating picking pattern that involves alternating between bass and treble notes, helping you develop finger independence.
Advanced Acoustic Guitar Songs
For those who have mastered the intermediate level, the advanced stage is where you truly explore the full potential of the acoustic guitar. Advanced songs often include complex fingerpicking, fast-paced chord changes, and alternate tunings.
1. ‘Classical Gas’ by Mason Williams
A blend of classical and folk styles, “Classical Gas” is a technical masterpiece. The song’s fast-paced fingerpicking and intricate chord changes make it one of the most challenging pieces for advanced players.
2. ‘Neon’ by John Mayer
John Mayer is known for his unique approach to acoustic guitar, and “Neon” is a prime example of his percussive fingerstyle playing. The song features thumb-over-neck techniques and complex rhythms.
3. ‘Big Love’ (Acoustic Version) by Lindsey Buckingham
Lindsey Buckingham’s acoustic version of “Big Love” is a fingerpicking classic. The song’s relentless pace, coupled with its intricate chord voicings, makes it a perfect challenge for advanced guitarists.
4. ‘Ocean’ by John Butler Trio
“Ocean” is an instrumental song that showcases the full range of possibilities in acoustic guitar music. The song’s structure includes complex fingerpicking and rapid chord changes.
5. ‘Drifting’ by Andy McKee
“Drifting” uses a combination of percussive taps, hammer-ons, pull-offs, and harmonics to create a layered sound. It’s a highly technical piece that will push your guitar skills to their limit.
Final Words
The world of acoustic guitar music is vast, and no matter where you are on your journey, there’s always something new to learn. Irrespective of the songs you’re strumming along to from this list, each of them will add to your skill set. Keep strumming, keep learning, and have fun!