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Playable with easy chords! A collection of practice songs for acoustic guitar beginners

I want to try singing and playing acoustic guitar, but I don’t know which song to start practicing…

I’m sure many people feel the same way.

Even songs introduced as “easy enough for beginners” can sometimes include chords you’re not comfortable with.

In this article, we’ll introduce plenty of recommended songs for acoustic guitar beginners.

If you look online, you can find the chords for each song, so if there’s a song you want to try, check the chords, and if you find one that seems playable, go ahead and give it a shot!

First, aim to be able to sing while playing the accompaniment with chords.

Playable with easy chords! A collection of practice songs for acoustic guitar beginners (61–70)

dragonflyNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

“Tonbo” (cover) solo performance. The guitar resonates really well, so...
dragonflyNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

It’s an immortal masterpiece that could be called synonymous with folk songs.

This song never uses barre chords, so it’s easy for beginners to play.

It feels great to strum an acoustic guitar with bold strokes, so give it a try.

With about a month of practice, you’ll probably be able to play it pretty decently.

contrailArai Yumi

Hikōki-gumo / Yumi Arai (guitar solo cover)
contrailArai Yumi

This song became the theme for the Studio Ghibli film The Wind Rises.

I was struck by how it played over the ending, adding depth to the bittersweet story.

It’s a wonderful piece written by a young Yumi Arai.

While it’s piano-based, performing it on acoustic guitar also has its charm.

Anytime, as many times as you likeKimura Yumi

Amateur solo performance: “Always With Me” by Yumi Kimura
Anytime, as many times as you likeKimura Yumi

This is the theme song from the film Spirited Away.

If you’re a Ghibli fan, it’s definitely a piece you’ll want to play.

In the original, Kimura plays it on the harp, so using arpeggios on the guitar might capture the atmosphere better.

Since it’s slow-tempo, it’s easy to practice.

Go Go Round This World!FISHMANS

This is a song by Fishmans released on March 18, 1998.

In the recording, the acoustic guitar is used effectively, and the strumming syncopates along with the rhythm section.

The chords and the progression used are mostly simple, so I think it’s quite easy to play.

and I love youMr.Children

[Guitar] and I love you / Mr.Children Beginner-Friendly Chords
and I love youMr.Children

Mr.Children have lots of acoustic guitar songs, but this is the one that truly shines with just a single acoustic! Kazutoshi Sakurai is also a skilled guitarist, and many of their songs have complex chord progressions, but this one has relatively few chord changes and is well-suited for a solo acoustic performance.

Rain, then Sunshine Hallelujahyuzu

Rain then Clear Skies Hallelujah – Yuzu Yo1ko2 cover
Rain, then Sunshine Hallelujahyuzu

It’s one of Yuzu’s signature and most popular songs.

Starting with a gently resonant 3/4 rhythm, their characteristically warm vocals seep into your heart.

The lyrics carry a message of looking forward even when you encounter chance meetings or unexpected events.

Released in April 2013, it gained popularity as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Gochisousan.” With its relaxed, gentle tempo and substantial length, it’s perfect for practicing in a calm atmosphere.

It’s also fun to sing at karaoke.

Letter ~To You at Fifteen~Anjura Aki

Letter ~To You at Fifteen~ / Angela Aki Cover by Megumi Mori
Letter ~To You at Fifteen~Anjura Aki

Angela Aki, who herself was bullied and had a difficult time as a student, turned a heartfelt letter she wrote into this profound song.

Beginner-friendly guitar chord sheets are often available, making it an easy song to play and sing.