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Recommended songs for beginner band members by instrument

Recommended songs for beginner band members by instrument
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“I just started learning an instrument but already formed a band” or “We’re all beginners, but we want to start a band and play live!!” If that sounds like you, a budding band member— You’re probably thinking, “I have no idea where to start…” Of course, basic practice is important, but in the beginning, practicing songs is also recommended.

So in this article, we’ll introduce beginner-friendly songs for each instrument! Read this with your bandmates and use it to help you pick your setlist!

Guitar (1–10)

Start by checking here first!

First, let me introduce some songs I recommend for beginner guitarists! These are all tracks that many guitarists have probably covered, so they’re a must-see for anyone just starting out. There are plenty of songs that feature the basic techniques you’ll need for playing any piece. They’re beginner-friendly, but we’re introducing some cool, classic tunes.

All of the YouthFujifaburikku

It’s one of Fujifabric’s signature songs that conveys the feeling of summer gradually coming to an end.

It features a gentle tempo that’s evident just by listening through, and the guitar phrases have plenty of space, giving a relaxed impression.

Be mindful of clearly switching between playing approaches, such as the single-note block pattern at the beginning and the chorus where the chords are allowed to ring softly.

Precisely because the tempo is laid-back, it’s important to change chords more smoothly and aim to let each note resonate clearly.

The Howling of the Lost OneNeru

Neru – The Wail of the Lost One (Lost One’s Weeping) feat. Kagamine Rin
The Howling of the Lost OneNeru

This is a Vocaloid song by Neru, notable for its emotionally charged, rapid feel.

While it may seem complex, it’s built from repeating phrases in blocks, so once you memorize a few shapes, you can closely reproduce the track.

Techniques like hammer-ons and pull-offs, cutting, and muting are key points in each phrase; by articulating the notes clearly, you’ll develop essential guitarist skills.

If you start at the original tempo right away, your strumming speed and muting may not keep up, so it’s recommended to begin at a slow tempo and check each technique one by one.

B-BLUEBOØWY

One of BOØWY’s signature songs—it has speed, yet a floating, atmospheric sound that firmly conveys the mood.

It’s important to clearly grasp how each section unfolds: blocks that mix chords into the choppy, tight strumming, blocks that let arpeggios ring in sync with the vocals, and so on.

While the chords are sounded solidly, the piece is more notable for its single-note lines, so focus on producing clean tones and preventing other strings from ringing unintentionally.

Start by playing slowly to ensure each note rings clearly, then gradually increase the tempo to build power and intensity.

Recommended approach.

Funny Bunnythe pillows

the pillows are a rock band beloved both in Japan and abroad.

Among the many songs they perform on a wide range of stages at Japanese music festivals, this track stands out as one of their most popular.

Its band performance is simple yet deeply moving, and it carries a message about the importance of dreaming.

The intro guitar phrase, which plays chords on the 2nd to 4th strings, is notable for being playable just by shifting finger positions.

In the B-melody, aim to pick each note carefully to bring out the warm tone of the arpeggio.

For the guitar solo at the end of the chorus, the key is to focus on mastering the repeated hammer-ons and slides.

From the open, airy cutting in the chorus onward, it’s the perfect rock number for beginner guitarists to practice.

ROCKET DIVEhide with Spread Beaver

hide with Spread Beaver – ROCKET DIVE
ROCKET DIVEhide with Spread Beaver

After performing as the guitarist of X JAPAN, hide left behind numerous classic tracks under his solo name as well.

This song, released in 1998, is known as a hit by his band hide with Spread Beaver.

From the intro, the guitar features driving power chords that create a sense of speed.

Since you’ll need to shift positions on the fretboard to match the song’s tempo, it’s a good idea to use a metronome to lock in the rhythm.

For the guitar solo, the key is to move your fingers swiftly as you run up into the higher positions.

If you pay attention to the muted strums (brushing) that come between the power chords, you can give the performance an even cooler edge.

A Little Love SongMONGOL800

This is probably the go-to song for beginner electric guitarists.

The chords are mostly power chords, so even those who just started should be able to play them.

The tempo is a bit fast, so the palm-muted part at the beginning might be tricky, but try practicing slowly and build up gradually.

wavy or curly hairSaucy Dog

Saucy Dog “Kusege” Music Video (Theme song for the ABC TV/TV Asahi drama “My Diary”)
wavy or curly hairSaucy Dog

Saucy Dog’s “Kusege,” which has also drawn attention as a TV drama theme song, captivates many with its heart-touching melody.

The guitar mainly provides chord backing, but be mindful not to strum aimlessly—listen to the other instruments and aim to play as part of the ensemble.

The bass should center on solid root notes as the foundation, while delivering the melodic phrases in the interlude with a sense of songfulness.

The drums support the track with a steady 8-beat, and by emphasizing the contrast between the delicacy of the verse and the power of the chorus, the atmosphere deepens significantly.

I hope each player strives to perform in a way that closely supports the melody.