The journey of every guitarist often begins with easy, melodic tunes that not only help them find their footing but also develop their unique style. Folk music, rich in history and tradition, is one genre that offers a plethora of easy-to-play tunes. Here, we delve into 20 easy folk guitar songs that offer a combination of timeless melodies and intricate guitar playing. While some might be familiar to you, others could be hidden gems that might just become your next favorite.
1. Amazing Grace – Elvis Presley
YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AEgG63MCa0I
One of the most celebrated hymns worldwide, Amazing Grace has been covered by numerous artists. However, Elvis Presley’s rendition stands out because of its heartfelt delivery. While the song predominantly uses basic chords, the true challenge lies in imbuing the strumming pattern with the emotion the song demands. When playing, the chord progression requires finesse and feeling rather than mere technical skill.
2. Man Of Constant Sorrow – Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan, an icon in the world of folk, is known for his lyricism and unique vocal delivery. Man Of Constant Sorrow is a classic folk song that tells a gripping story. For guitarists, this straightforward song is an excellent way to experiment with various chord shapes. The song is relatively easy, but mastering the dynamics of Dylan’s strumming pattern can pose a challenge.
3. Skinny Love – Bon Iver
Moving towards more contemporary folk songs, Skinny Love by Bon Iver showcases the versatility of folk. The challenge in this song lies not just in the different chord shapes but in capturing the raw emotion of Justin Vernon’s voice. The strumming pattern is unique and might take some time for beginners to perfect. However, once mastered, this song is a testament to the beauty of modern folk.
4. The Circle Game – Joni Mitchell
The Circle Game, a song by the legendary Joni Mitchell, captures the essence of folk songs. The lyrics are poignant, the melody memorable, and the guitar seemingly simple yet subtly intricate. Most folk songs, like this one, predominantly use major chords, making them easy for beginners. The true challenge, however, is in the chord progression and ensuring that each chord transition is smooth.
5. I Walk The Line – Johnny Cash
When you think of folk icons, Johnny Cash is a name that stands tall. I Walk The Line is a testament to Cash’s unique musicality and deep voice.
Guitar players will find the repetitive bass note pattern iconic of Cash’s style intriguing. Though the song uses basic chords, keeping a steady rhythm while emphasizing the bass notes is where the challenge lies. This American folk song truly showcases the Man in Black’s promise to remain faithful.
6. Will the Circle Be Unbroken
Will the Circle Be Unbroken is a traditional hymn that has become a mainstay in the realm of folk music. The charm of this song lies in its simple, powerful lyrics and memorable chord progression. It’s an excellent tune for those wanting to work on their fingerpicking skills. The repetitive nature of folk songs, including this hymn, allows players to focus on their technique while being immersed in a timeless melody.
7. Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-p8GXZcdrIk
Veering towards Southern rock, Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd has elements of folk, making it a favorite for many guitarists. This classic song is known for its catchy riff and chorus. The three-chord structure makes it accessible for beginners, but the magic lies in mastering the strumming pattern and integrating the iconic riffs seamlessly. It’s a song that will surely get everyone singing along.
8. Hallelujah – Jeff Buckley
Originally penned by Leonard Cohen, Hallelujah found new life and an entirely different flavor in Jeff Buckley’s rendition. This song offers guitarists a beautiful chord progression combined with intricate fingerpicking. It’s not just about guitar but also capturing the soulful and haunting voice of Buckley. The blend of major chords with the rich vocal texture makes this song a must-learn for every folk enthusiast.
9. Candy – Paolo Nutini
Candy, by the soulful Paolo Nutini, is a song that bridges contemporary music with the traditional flavors of folk. It showcases Nutini’s emotional delivery and lyricism.
For guitarists, this song is a treat due to its chord progression and subtle strumming pattern. What may initially seem straightforward soon reveals layers of musical depth. The challenge is to capture the yearning and passion in Nutini’s voice with the strokes of the guitar.
10. The Sound of Silence – Simon and Garfunkel
A song that needs little introduction, The Sound of Silence by Simon and Garfunkel is a pillar in the realm of folk. Its melancholic lyrics, coupled with a haunting melody, make it a timeless piece. The fingerpicking style, combined with the dynamics of soft-loud-soft, poses a delightful challenge for guitarists. This song encapsulates the essence of classic song compositions and remains a staple for any folk enthusiast.
11. Rattlesnake Mountain
Rattlesnake Mountain might not be as widely recognized as the other entries on this list, but its place in folklore is undeniable. This American folk tune speaks of adventure, danger, and the untamed wilderness. With its catchy tune and narrative style, it offers guitarists the chance to work on their rhythm and pacing. The strumming is energetic, and the chords provide a solid foundation for many folk songs.
12. Leaving on a Jet Plane – John Denver
Leaving on a Jet Plane is one of John Denver’s most cherished songs. With its wistful lyrics and melodic guitar, it captures the pain of parting and the hope of reunion. The song’s chord progression is straightforward, making it accessible for beginners. However, the subtleties lie in the nuances of Denver’s style and the song’s gentle strumming.
13. Cotton-Eyed Joe – Rednex
An old American folk tune, Cotton-Eyed Joe has roots that go deep into the country’s history. It’s a song that’s often associated with lively dances and spirited gatherings.
For guitarists, the song’s upbeat tempo and catchy riff present an exciting challenge. It’s an ideal tune for practicing rhythm and timing. The repetitive melody, a common feature in many folk songs, adds to its charm and makes it a favorite among many.
14. Drunken Sailor
Drunken Sailor is a sea shanty that resonates with tales of the vast ocean and the adventures of sailors. Its repetitive tune and chorus make it an easy folk guitar song for beginners. The challenge lies in keeping up with the song’s pace and adding variations to the strumming pattern, making the melody sound fresh with every verse. This classic tune is a reminder of the age-old tradition of singing aboard ships.
15. Stand By Me – Ben E. King
While Stand By Me by Ben E. King leans more towards R&B, its universal theme gives it a place in the world of folk guitar songs. The song is built on a foundation of basic chords, but it’s the rhythm and soul with which it’s played that sets it apart. Capturing the essence of King’s voice and the song’s timeless appeal can be challenging but rewarding for any guitarist.
16. Brown Eyed Girl – Van Morrison
Brown Eyed Girl by Van Morrison deserves its rightful spotlight. This song, with its infectious chorus and joyful melody, is a classic in every sense. The guitar focuses on major chords and transitions, making it accessible for most. However, the song’s beauty lies in its intricate details, from the subtle lead guitar fills to the distinctive strumming. It’s a must-learn for anyone venturing into the world of folk music.
17. Down in the Valley – Johnny Cash
Johnny Cash returns to our list with Down in the Valley, a rendition of a traditional American folk song. This tune stands out with its melancholic tone and resonant lyrics. While the song employs basic chords, the challenge for guitarists is to maintain the solemn pace and capture the raw emotion Cash pours into his performance. With its beautiful narrative style, it’s a quintessential piece for those seeking to immerse themselves in American folk traditions.
18. Sons & Daughters – The Decemberists
Sons & Daughters by The Decemberists is a contemporary addition to the world of folk. The song, with its harmonious chorus and unique folk music instrumentation, showcases the evolution of the genre. Guitarists will find the blend of chords and the strumming quite engaging. It’s a song that celebrates unity and togetherness, making it a delightful piece to play in gatherings.
19. Take Me Home Country Roads – John Denver
A song that evokes nostalgia like no other, Take Me Home Country Roads by John Denver is a beloved anthem for West Virginia and music lovers worldwide. Its lyrics paint vivid imagery of the countryside while the melody remains catchy and uplifting. The song’s chords are straightforward, but capturing Denver’s warmth and passion is where guitarists might find a delightful challenge.
20. I Saw The Light – Hank Williams
Closing our list is Hank Williams with I Saw The Light, a gospel-turned-country classic. The song’s jubilant tone and hopeful lyrics make it a favorite in many a gathering. For those delving into guitar, this tune offers a mix of major chord transitions and an energetic strumming pattern. While it’s essential to get the chords right, the real beauty lies in conveying the song’s joyous spirit.
21. The Big Rock Candy Mountain
The Big Rock Candy Mountain is a whimsical American song that paints a vivid picture of a hobo’s paradise—a land filled with candy trees, lemonade springs, and lakes of stew. For guitarists, this song’s playful tune makes it a delightful pick. While the song features basic chord shapes, maintaining the song’s spirited pace can be a delightful challenge.
22. Farewell to Nova Scotia
Hailing from Canada, Farewell to Nova Scotia is a poignant ballad that speaks of the longing and heartache of leaving one’s homeland. Its lyrics beautifully convey the sailor’s love for the rugged shores of Nova Scotia. Guitarists venturing into this song can immerse themselves in its melodic progression and the subtle strumming that captures the ebb and flow of the sea.
23. The Rising Of The Moon
An Irish ballad, The Rising Of The Moon, recounts the 1798 rebellion. It is a stirring call to arms, filled with passion and history. For those diving into the world of folk guitar songs, this piece offers a blend of rhythmic strumming and emotive chord transitions. The challenge lies in capturing the fervor of the rebellion and conveying the song’s rich historical context.
24. Older Chests – Damien Rice
Older Chests by Damien Rice is a contemplative piece that resonates deeply with its listeners. Rice’s haunting voice, coupled with the song’s introspective lyrics, makes it a gem in contemporary folk. For guitarists, the challenge is two-fold: mastering the intricate fingerpicking style and conveying the song’s profound emotional depth. It’s a piece that showcases the evolution of folk music and how it continues to touch souls.
Looking for great guitars for fingerpicking? Try these classical guitars. On a budget? Check out the best classical guitars for under $500.
25. Just Breathe – Willie Nelson
Originally by Pearl Jam, Just Breathe found a new soul in the rendition by Willie Nelson. With its reflective lyrics and melodic guitar lines, the song is a testament to life, love, and the transient nature of it all. Willie Nelson’s version, laden with his iconic voice and classic country touch, gives it a distinctive feel. For guitarists, capturing the song’s serenity and depth requires both skill and emotional resonance.
26. Suzanne – Leonard Cohen
Suzanne is one of Leonard Cohen’s most celebrated songs, a gentle ode to a muse, filled with vivid imagery and poetic elegance. This song stands out for its hauntingly beautiful melody and Cohen’s distinctive vocal style. For those practicing their guitar, the delicate fingerpicking pattern and the subtle chord shapes can be a challenge to master but are incredibly rewarding.
27. Blowin’ In The Wind – Bob Dylan
YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YlJeNTZwa_w
Bob Dylan, with Blowin’ In The Wind, crafted a timeless anthem that questions the complexities of freedom, peace, and understanding. Its profound lyrics, combined with a simple yet memorable melody, make it a staple in the world of folk. While the song’s chord structures are accessible to most, the challenge lies in delivering its powerful message with the right emotion.
28. The Spotted Cow
The Spotted Cow is a traditional English folk song, often associated with the rural landscapes and pastoral scenes of the English countryside. Its playful tune and narrative style tell a story of love and courtship. Guitarists delving into this song can enjoy its rhythmic strumming and merry progression, encapsulating the joy of simpler times.
29. You Are My Sunshine
Perhaps one of the most universally recognized and beloved songs, You Are My Sunshine is a sweet melody that has been passed down through generations. While it’s often considered a lullaby, its origins are rooted deeply in American folk. The simplicity of its lyrics, combined with its warm progression, makes it an essential piece for anyone diving into folk guitar songs. While the basic chords might be easy for even novice guitarists, the challenge lies in infusing each strum with the affection and warmth the song embodies.
30. I Don’t Know – Lisa Hannigan
I Don’t Know by Lisa Hannigan is a beautiful blend of contemporary folk influences and traditional elements. Lisa’s enchanting voice, combined with the song’s introspective lyrics, crafts a melody that’s both soothing and thought-provoking. The guitar accompaniment, characterized by its delicate fingerpicking style, adds depth to the song’s narrative. For guitarists, mastering this song requires a balance between technique and capturing its ethereal ambiance.
31. When the Saints Go Marching In
Originally a spiritual hymn, When the Saints Go Marching In evolved into a jazz and folk classic that’s been embraced by artists from diverse backgrounds. Its rousing rhythm and optimistic lyrics make it a staple in celebrations and gatherings. When played on the guitar, its repetitive chord shapes and lively strumming pattern can be both fun and challenging for guitarists aiming to capture its vibrant energy.
32. Ramblin’ Boy – Tom Paxton
YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHXOWAsNeJU
Ramblin’ Boy by Tom Paxton is a tribute to wanderlust and the spirit of adventure. Its narrative style, coupled with Paxton’s warm voice, paints a vivid picture of journeys and memories. The song, with its blend of major chords and a consistent strumming pattern, is a treat for those looking to dive deeper into the realm of American folk classics.
33. A Sailor’s Life
A Sailor’s Life is a traditional folk ballad that delves into the perils and romances of a sailor’s life. Its poignant lyrics and melodious tune convey the dual nature of life at sea—freedom and uncertainty. For guitarists, the song offers a mix of rhythmic variations and chord progressions that encapsulate the ebb and flow of ocean waves.
34. Upward Over the Mountain – Iron & Wine
Iron & Wine’s Upward Over the Mountain is a deeply emotional ode to familial bonds and the passage of time. Its introspective lyrics, combined with a delicate guitar accompaniment, make it a standout in contemporary folk. The intricate fingerpicking and chords challenge guitarists to master technique while conveying the song’s profound emotional depth.
35. The Ballad of Casey Jones
The Ballad of Casey Jones chronicles the real-life heroics of railroad engineer Casey Jones. This classic modern folk tune, with its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, celebrates bravery and dedication. The song’s lively strumming and progression offer guitarists an engaging experience, bringing to life the tale of a bygone era.
What is a Folk Song?
A folk song, at its core, is a musical testament to the shared experiences and stories of a community. These are the melodies that have been passed down through generations, reflecting the emotions, traditions, challenges, and triumphs of the people who sing them. Often rooted in oral tradition, folk songs might not always have a single known author. Instead, they evolve over time, taking on new verses, adaptations, and interpretations but always remaining anchored in the collective memory of a culture.
Folk songs are mirrors of society, capturing everything from historical events to everyday life, from love ballads to protest anthems. They encompass a wide range of themes—nature, work, love, war, and more. Regardless of their origin, these songs resonate with a timeless quality, uniting listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
What Makes a Good Folk Song to Play on Guitar?
Simplicity in Structure: Many classic folk songs are built upon simple chord progressions. This makes them accessible for beginners but also provides ample room for more advanced guitarists to add their own flair and interpretation. This makes them great campfire songs, too!
Rhythmic Diversity: A folk song’s rhythm often mirrors the pulse of the story they’re telling. This rhythmic diversity, from the lilting cadence of a love ballad to the robust beat of a work song, offers guitarists a range of strumming patterns to explore and master.
Narrative Depth: Folk ballads and songs are, in essence, stories set to music. A good folk song on the guitar should allow the player to convey this narrative, using dynamics and tempo to enhance the storytelling.
Emotional Resonance: Folk songs capture a spectrum of emotions, and the guitar accompaniment should complement this. The richness of guitar playing can add depth to a song’s emotional journey, making it resonate more deeply with listeners.
Room for Interpretation: The best folk songs for guitar are those that leave room for personal interpretation. Whether it’s through innovative fingerpicking styles, unique chord shapes, or creative use of capos, these songs invite guitarists to inject their own personality into the music.
Versatility: Folk songs, with their universal themes, are versatile in nature. Whether played solo on an acoustic guitar, accompanied by a full band or reinterpreted in a new genre, they retain their essence. A great folk song on the guitar should sound just as captivating, whether played at a campfire or on a concert stage.
Conclusion: The Timeless Echoes of Folk Guitar Songs
Folk guitar songs are not just a compilation of chords, strumming patterns, and lyrics. They are the bridges that connect our present to the past, our individual stories to collective memories. They remind us of the timeless nature of human emotion, the shared experiences that unite generations, and the melodies that linger in our hearts long after the last note fades.
For the guitarist, each song offers a unique challenge, a blend of technique and emotion, storytelling and artistry. But beyond the strings and frets lies the true essence of folk music—a celebration of life in all its hues, a tapestry of tales that are both deeply personal and universally resonant.
As you pick up your guitar and delve into the world of easy folk guitar songs, remember that you’re not just playing a tune. You’re becoming a part of a grand tradition, adding your voice to the chorus of countless souls who have found solace, joy, and connection in the embrace of folk music.
Whether you’re strumming under a starlit sky, in the quiet confines of your room, or on a bustling street corner, let each chord, each note, each song be a testament to the enduring magic of folk music—a legacy that lives on, one guitar string at a time.