For some people learning the guitar can only be accomplished one way: by playing songs you know and love. Playing by ear is certainly not a traditional method of learning the guitar, but it can be an effective one. Check out these easy songs to learn on electric guitar for beginners.

“Back In Black” – AC/DC

One of AC/DC’s biggest hits from their 1980 album is also one of the easiest songs one can learn on the electric guitar. Nothing sounds sweeter to the rock n roll fan than some epic power chords. Some of the most recognizable power chords in rock history are featured in this intro. A major, D major and E major make up this simple but fun opening sequence. Another reason this song is perfect for beginners is its pace. Hum the song to yourself to find the beat. This slow, rock classic is perfect for the player that craves monster power chords.

Learn to play “Back in Black” right here.

“Iron Man” – Black Sabbath

Much like “Back in Black,” this rock n roll staple is slow-moving and easy to keep up with. One of the founding songs in rock n roll history, this Black Sabbath opening riff belongs in a discussion for guitar riff Mount Rushmore. You’ll learn the very basics with the electric guitar when playing this song. Learn to slide your fingers up and down the neck nice and slowly. Once you have this riff mastered, you’ll never forget it!

Learn to play “Iron Man” right here.

“Smells Like Teen Spirit” – Nirvana

There’s no better riff to learn than the one that altered the course of rock music forever, right? Who can forget Kurt Cobain’s scratchy power chords that start this song softly, then explode for the next four minutes? This very basic chord structure will be repeated six times in the intro of the song, so once you get a hang of it there’s nothing stopping you. The verse is simply two strokes of the e string, until the pace picks up heading into the chorus. Master the intro first, and afterwards you might have quite a lot of fun learning this memorable guitar solo, as well.

Learn how to play “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by clicking right here.

“Last Nite” – The Strokes

The Strokes may not be a band you know very much about, but you’ll undoubtedly recognize this tune. Released in 2001, “Last Nite” instantly shot up the rock charts. A big part of the reason why it’s so popular is its memorable yet simple guitar chords. This song will get you familiar with chord structure, while improving your timing and anticipation along the way.

Learn to play “Last Nite” right here.

“Smoke On The Water” – Deep Purple

This is seemingly the first riff everyone learns when picking up a guitar. It sounds good on the acoustic guitar, but nothing compares to hitting this riff on the electric guitar. The opening riff is simple and stays at a relatively routine pace and rhythm. You’ll learn how to climb the guitar neck up and down during the verses. Once you figure out the intro and verses, get ready for a fun and challenging solo, courtesy of guitar legend, Ritchie Blackmore.

Learn to play “Smoke On The Water” by clicking right here.

“Blitzkrieg Bop” – The Ramones

Blitzkrieg Bop is a piece of punk history, and it’s also one of the easiest rock tunes to master on the electric guitar. The only adjustment you’ll have to make here is pace. This is a quick, two-minute jam, but once you have it down you’ll never forget how to play it. Simply master the A5, E5 and D5 chords and enjoy the tune. You’ll be surprised how powerful these simple chords will sound when put together.

Learn to play “Blitzkrieg Bop” by clicking right here.

“Roxanne” – The Police

Looking to add a little kick and a unique flare to your rock n roll experience? Try playing “Roxanne” by The Police. This tune infuses a little reggae and pop to create some rock n roll history. The intro to the song is as easy it gets, starting with the same note repeated twelve times. Playing this song on an electric guitar rather than acoustic sounds much closer to the original recording. Try out fingerpicking if you think it sounds more accurate than using your guitar pick.

Learn how to play “Roxanne” by clicking right here.

“Rockin’ In The Free World” – Neil Young

For many guitar beginners, learning a Neil Young song seems nearly impossible due to his unique and distinct way of playing. Thankfully, “Rockin’ In The Free World” is almost a departure from many of Young’s other memorable hits. The quick but simple strumming patterns will help you develop your skills as a guitarist. Improve your coordination and flexibility with this classic tune, as well.

Learn how to play “Rockin’ In The Free World” by clicking right here.

Tips For Learning The Electric Guitar

Learn Simple Chords

Once your guitar of choice is in your possession, it’s time to learn a few simple chords. Learning these open position chords or “beginner chords” is all about figuring out where to put your fingers on the appropriate strings. While doing this you are building muscle memory and beginning to get a knack for speed and timing. All of these are crucial elements in learning to play guitar.

Learn Real Songs

Maybe the most rewarding part about learning to play this instrument is the ability to play some of your favorite tunes. Whether it’s a simple but memorable riff like “Smoke on the Water” or “Seven Nation Army,” being able to mimic rock classics is as fun as it gets! Starting out by learning to read guitar notes is the suggested route, but for many jumping right into some known tunes can be the way to go.

Practice Often

It’s true, practice can make perfect, but when learning guitar it’s time to throw out the idea of setting aside practice time. For today’s busy adults or children, it’s difficult to set the needed time aside each day. Instead, turn the instrument into part of your life or regular routine. Don’t plan to practice for a half hour at a set time. Instead, pick up the guitar and give yourself time to practice whenever you have a spare moment. If you practice this way you will likely be very surprised at how much time you can spend honing your skills.

Guitar Lessons In Phoenix, AZ

Originally based in Prescott, Amazing Mobile Music Instruction is your number one choice for guitar lessons in the valley of the sun! Amazing Mobile teaches the basics and fundamentals of music; equating playing an instrument to math. Once the structure is understood, the possibilities are endless! Amazing Mobile offers flexible schedules and at-home music lessons, perfect for the busy adults and/or children in your life. For the easiest and most affordable guitar lessons in Phoenix, head on over to Ben’s Method to schedule a time that works best for you. In addition to guitar lessons, they also offer piano, drum, bass guitar, ukulele and mandolin instruction. Online music lessons are available as well!