[Western Rock Edition] Recommended Practice Songs for Beginner Bands [2026]

Hotel CaliforniaThe Eagles

Eagles – Hotel California (Live 1977) (Official Video) [HD]

A song by the American rock band the Eagles, whose total record sales have exceeded 200 million since their debut in 1971.

Set in a fictional hotel, it’s the number that many listeners in Japan first associate with the Eagles.

With its laid-back tempo and straightforward structure, it doesn’t require advanced techniques, making it a great pick for beginner bands.

However, the guitarist may need the focus to play through to the end, as the extended guitar solo in the outro takes up about a third of the entire track.

Also, the distinctive arpeggiated intro—recorded with 13 guitars—is difficult to fully recreate, so it’s best to copy the most prominent phrases.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Misery BusinessParamore

Paramore: Misery Business [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

If there’s one song that propelled Tennessee’s Paramore into the spotlight with their 2007 album Riot!, it’s definitely this one! The lyrics, in which the female protagonist lays bare her jealousy toward a romantic rival, vividly capture raw emotions that anyone can relate to from their teenage years, and when delivered through Hayley Williams’s powerful vocals, they hit listeners right in the heart.

Centered around a catchy guitar riff, the sound sticks in your head, and since the band arrangement isn’t overly difficult, it’s perfect for beginner bands to cover.

How about performing it on your school festival stage?

Sugar, We’re Goin DownFall Out Boy

Fall Out Boy – Sugar, We’re Goin Down (Official Music Video)

A signature anthem of the 2000s pop-punk scene, this track was pivotal in launching American rock band Fall Out Boy to mainstream success.

Featuring a catchy melody and memorable riffs, it’s built on a simple chord progression, making it approachable even for players who aren’t fully confident in their technique.

Included on the album From Under the Cork Tree, the song reached No.

8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was also featured on the soundtrack of the film The Fog.

Having received 8× Platinum certification from the RIAA in November 2023, it has continued to be beloved by music fans for many years.

With guitar work centered on power chords and basic rhythmic patterns, it’s highly recommended as an introductory piece for band practice.

Last NiteThe Strokes

The Strokes – Last Nite (Official HD Video)

Known as pioneers of the early-2000s garage rock revival, the American rock band The Strokes released this track from their debut album, Is This It, which is characterized by its simple yet powerful guitar riff and energetic sound.

The opening riff—said to be inspired by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers—helped the song become one of the band’s signature hits.

Released by RCA Records, it achieved commercial success, peaking at No.

14 on the UK Singles Chart and earning a platinum certification.

In 2002, they also appeared on MTV’s live program $2 Bill, which significantly boosted The Strokes’ profile.

Its straightforward structure and catchy melody make it an ideal piece for band practice and easy to break into sections.

Get it onT-REX

T. Rex – Get It On [Lyrics] [HD]

One of the most famous songs for its riff in rock history.

As its writer, Marc Bolan, mentioned in an interview, the riff was influenced by Chuck Berry.

The overall structure of the song is very simple—great for beginners.