How To Choose the First Song to Learn on Guitar

Picking up a new instrument can be a daunting challenge, and as with many firsts, it can be difficult to know where to start. It’s easy to become paralyzed when faced with the magnanimity of the greats who inspired us to play in the first place.

In the spirit of my colleague Baylor’s last post, the single most overlooked guiding principle in learning to play an instrument is learning to play well! Therefore, when choosing your first song, keep it simple! In doing so, you lay the foundation for your growth as a musician: the enjoyment of playing music well. Knowing to play one simple song well puts you miles ahead of someone who can play five complicated songs badly. 

All of this being said, it can be difficult to find the perfect simple song for you. Here are some suggestions of songs that you can learn to cast away and set you off on your musical journey!

For the singer-songwriter:

You Can’t Always Get What You Want - The Rolling Stones

Jambalaya (On The Bayou) - Hank Williams Sr.

Three Little Birds - Bob Marley

Fade Into You - Mazzy Star

Eleanor Rigby - The Beatles

Mamas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys - Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson

These simple songs are perfect for those who dream of singing with their guitar. With these songs, you will learn the basic “cowboy” chords you need to play acoustic guitar music. 

For the lead guitarist:

Satisfaction - The Rolling Stones

Come As You Are - Nirvana

Seven Nation Army - The White Stripes

Smoke on the Water - Deep Purple

Day Tripper - The Beatles

These simple riffs will help you build the dexterity and ear you’ll need to take on the melodies of your favorite lead guitarists