[2026] A Roundup of Recommended Western Songs for Jam Sessions

Ain’t it funky nowJames Brown

James Brown – Ain’t it funky now (parts 1 and 2)

While the trumpet and twin guitars are chopping out the theme riff, the electric piano takes the solo.

Since there’s only a single theme phrase here as well, it’s perfect for a jam session.

Even without keys like an electric piano, three guitars are more than enough to recreate it! The openness of the signature phrase feels great, and once the groove kicks in, the development that follows is sure to be exhilarating!

SexmachineJames Brown

James Brown – Sexmachine

This is James Brown’s “Sex Machine.” While blues tends to dominate jam sessions, I think funk—where the real thrill lies in playing with dynamics—is the best for letting every member truly feel the groove.

The vocal becomes just another instrument, so even people who don’t play an instrument can join a band session—this track is the perfect example.

You don’t need lyrics; as long as you can make some vocal sounds, you’re good.

If you’ve been holding back because you don’t play an instrument, jump in and participate!

Bone BopKenny Garrett

Kenny Garrett – Bone Bop

This song starts with a classic modal jazz progression, but instead of straight-ahead jazz, it’s defined by a funky vibe.

Once you’ve locked in a repeating groove with a minimal drum kit and an upright bass, all that’s left is to have fun! Each part fills the spaces left by the others, so when you’re jamming, make eye contact with your bandmates, sync your feel, and enjoy it together!

Break On ThroughThe Doors

The Doors – Break On Through (To The Other Side)

The Doors are pioneers of psychedelic rock.

You’ve probably heard the intro somewhere before, right? While the bass comes in on the downbeat, the guitar enters on the offbeat, and that mismatch creates a unique sound.

An organ makes it even better, but you can still capture the vibe and jam perfectly as a three-piece.

If everyone sings the chorus—“Break on through to the other side”—you can bring out that distinctive rough-edged Doors feel.

Give it a try!

HardgrooveThe RH Factor

The RH Factor – Hardgroove

This is a chaotic, anything-goes kind of track.

During the session, just remember one theme and play freely to your heart’s content.

Keep your senses sharp for the moment when the groove is born.

And don’t forget to smash the snare at an outrageously loud volume in the middle section.

The fewer limits you put on what sounds you can make, the more you’ll feel the true essence of a jam session! Give it a try!

Blitzkrieg BopThe Ramones

Blitzkrieg Bop

This is The Ramones’ signature song, Blitzkrieg Bop.

Even though it uses only three chords, if you keep sixteenth notes on the hi-hat, hit plenty of crash cymbals, play a heavily overdriven guitar with a single pedal, and a root-note bass line, you’ll have that early punk rock sound in no time! It’s especially recommended for beginners, and bands that just formed can jam it easily! Because it’s so well-known, it appeals to a wide range of ages, so definitely try playing it at your first live show!

The ChickenJaco Pastorius

Jaco Pastorius-“The Chicken”

The Chicken starts with a theme that feels open and liberating.

It’s one of the most famous standards for jam sessions.

The groove between the drums and bass is a bit tricky, but once you lock it in, you’re good to go! No matter what instrument or what kind of solo, you can always return to the head, which makes it especially recommended for beginners.

There’s no real limit on the number of players, so gather your members and have a lively good time! An experience like no other awaits you!