Key takeaway: Learning easy songs on electric guitar can enhance your skills while providing a sense of accomplishment. Iconic tracks like “Cherub Rock” and “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” not only offer enjoyment but also serve as excellent starting points for budding guitarists.
Are you interested in learning how to play the electric guitar but don’t know where to start? Look no further! In this article, we will be discussing five iconic songs that are perfect for beginners on the electric guitar.
These songs have simple chord progressions and riffs that are easy to learn, making them great for building your confidence and skills on the instrument. Whether you’re a complete beginner or just looking for some new songs to add to your repertoire, these easy songs on electric guitar are sure to impress your friends and family.
Smashing Pumpkins: “Cherub Rock”
Released in 1993, “Cherub Rock” is a song by the American alternative rock band Smashing Pumpkins. This song features a catchy guitar riff that is perfect for beginners to learn. The main riff consists of only three chords (E minor, G major, and A major) and can be played with simple power chord shapes.
It also incorporates palm muting techniques, which may take some practice but will add an extra level of texture to your playing.
In addition to the riff, “Cherub Rock” also has a straightforward chord progression throughout the verses and chorus. It’s a great song for practicing switching between chords quickly and building up your strumming rhythm.
Blue Öyster Cult: “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper”
Originally released in 1976, “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” is a classic rock song by Blue Öyster Cult. This song may seem intimidating at first with its intricate guitar solos, but the main riff is actually quite simple and perfect for beginners to learn.
The main riff consists of just four chords (C major, G major, A minor, and F major), making it an excellent opportunity to practice chord changes and get comfortable with different chord shapes on the fretboard. Once you have the main riff down, you can tackle the solos and impress your friends with your newfound skills!
Willie Dixon: “I Can’t Quit You Baby”
For those interested in blues, “I Can’t Quit You Baby” by Willie Dixon is a must-learn song on the electric guitar. Released in 1956, this song has a simple but powerful riff that immediately draws listeners in.
The main riff consists of just two chords (E major and A major) played with simple power chord shapes. It’s a great song for beginners to learn how to incorporate dynamics into their playing, as it uses both muted and open strumming techniques.
Black Uhuru: “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner”
Released in 1983, “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” is a reggae-inspired track by the Jamaican band Black Uhuru. This song has a simple but infectious guitar riff that is perfect for beginners to learn.
The main riff consists of just three chords (A minor, D minor, and G major) played with barre chord shapes. It’s a great opportunity for beginners to practice their barre chord technique and get comfortable with different chord shapes on the fretboard.
Elmore James: “It Hurts Me Too”
Originally recorded in 1940 by blues musician Tampa Red, “It Hurts Me Too” has been covered by countless artists over the years, including Elmore James in 1957. This classic blues song features a simple but iconic slide guitar riff that is perfect for beginners to learn.
The main riff is played using a slide on the guitar, which may take some practice to get the hang of, but once you do, it’s a great way to add texture and emotion to your playing. The riff itself is quite simple, consisting of just two notes on the second and third strings. This song is an excellent opportunity for beginners to experiment with different techniques and add their own personal touch to their playing.
FAQs: Easy Songs on Electric Guitar
Is it necessary to know how to read sheet music in order to learn these songs?
No, these songs can be learned by following chord charts or even watching tutorials online.
Can I play these songs on any type of electric guitar?
Yes, these songs can be played on any type of electric guitar, whether it’s a classic Stratocaster or a modern Les Paul.
Are these songs suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, these songs are perfect for beginners who have some basic knowledge of chords and strumming but are looking to improve their skills and learn new techniques.
Conclusion
In conclusion, learning the electric guitar doesn’t have to be daunting or overwhelming. By starting with these easy songs, you can build your confidence and skills on the instrument while also having fun.
Experiment with different techniques and make these songs your own. Who knows, maybe one day you’ll be playing them in front of a live audience! So what are you waiting for? Grab your electric guitar and start learning these iconic songs today!