Taylor Swift, the global country-pop sensation, has a discography that resonates with young people worldwide. From her earlier work in country music to her recent pop songs, many of Taylor’s songs are tailor-made for the acoustic guitar.
If you’re looking to play guitar, especially Taylor Swift songs for guitar, you’re in for a treat. Many of Taylor Swift’s songs have simple chord progressions, making them perfect for beginners. Here’s a list of easy Taylor Swift songs to get you started:
1. “Teardrops on My Guitar”
One of Taylor Swift’s iconic tracks from her debut album, this country pop song tells a heartfelt story that many can relate to. The chord shapes in this song are fairly simple, mostly revolving around open chords. The strumming pattern is also quite straightforward, making it a great song to start with.
“Teardrops on My Guitar” by Taylor Swift: A Beginner’s Guide to Guitar Playing
When Taylor Swift burst onto the country music scene with her self-titled debut album, she introduced us to a series of heartfelt narratives that resonated with listeners worldwide. Among these tracks, “Teardrops on My Guitar” stands out as a poignant reflection on unrequited love.
For beginner guitarists, this song offers an ideal starting point, thanks to its simple chord structures and memorable melodies. Let’s dive in and learn how to play this Taylor Swift classic.
The Chords
“Teardrops on My Guitar” is predominantly built around open chords, which are beginner-friendly and resonate beautifully on an acoustic guitar. Here are the primary chords used in the song:
- G Major (G)
- E Minor (Em)
- Cadd9 (a variation of C Major)
- D Major (D)
- A Minor (Am)
For those unfamiliar with the Cadd9 chord, it’s essentially a G chord where your index and middle fingers move down one string each.
Strumming Pattern
The strumming pattern for “Teardrops on My Guitar” is relatively straightforward, ideal for those still getting the hang of rhythm. A recommended pattern is:
Down, Down, Up, Up, Down, Up
Practicing this pattern slowly and then gradually increasing the speed will help you get the rhythm and flow of the song.
Song Structure
To make it easier, here’s a basic structure of the song:
- Verse 1: G, Em, Cadd9, D (Played twice)
- Chorus: G, Em, Cadd9, D
- Verse 2: Same as Verse 1
- Chorus
- Bridge: Am, Em, Cadd9, D
- Chorus
- Outro: G, Em, Cadd9, D
Tips for Playing
Smooth Transitions: Practice transitioning between the chords smoothly. This will help maintain the song’s flow.
Emotional Delivery: Remember, Taylor Swift’s songs, including “Teardrops on My Guitar,” are deeply emotional. As you play, try to connect with the song’s sentiment to enhance your playing and possibly your singing if you decide to vocalize the lyrics.
Song Variations: Once you’re comfortable, you can explore different strumming patterns or even try fingerpicking to give the song your unique touch.
2. “Love Story”
An acoustic version of this song can easily be played using basic chords. The song’s romantic narrative and catchy chorus make it a favorite among Taylor Swift guitar enthusiasts. The album version features a full band, but it’s easily adapted for solo acoustic guitar.
Playing “Love Story” by Taylor Swift: A Beginner’s Guide to Acoustic Guitar
Taylor Swift has a knack for creating memorable songs that resonate with many, and “Love Story” is no exception. A fairy tale-like romantic narrative, combined with a catchy melody, makes it one of Swift’s most iconic songs.
If you’re just beginning your journey on the guitar, this song provides a fantastic starting point. Here’s a beginner’s guide to playing an acoustic version of “Love Story.”
The Chords
“Love Story” is crafted around several basic chords that are staples in many songs. The primary chords you’ll encounter are:
- C Major (C)
- G Major (G)
- A Minor (Am)
- F Major (F)
While the F Major chord can sometimes be challenging because it’s traditionally played as a barre chord, beginners can opt for an easier version of the F chord or use a capo to simplify chord shapes.
Strumming Pattern
The song has a rhythmic and steady beat, ideal for those still getting a feel for strumming. A recommended strumming pattern is:
Down, Down, Up, Up, Down, Up
This pattern works well throughout the song, but as always, tailor your strumming to what feels natural and sounds best to you.
Song Structure
Here’s a basic breakdown to guide you:
- Intro: C, G, Am, F
- Verse: C, G, Am, F
- Chorus: C, G, Am, F
- Bridge: Am, G, F, C, G
- Chorus
- Outro: C, G, Am, F
The recurring chord progression makes the song approachable for beginners.
Playing Tips
Capo Use: If you’re finding the F chord tricky, using a capo can help. Place the capo on the 4th fret and play using G, D, Em, and C chord shapes, which will match the original key of the song.
Dynamics: The song has its moments of soft romantic whispers and powerful declarations. Adjust your strumming dynamics to mirror the song’s changing emotions.
Practice the Transition: The transition between the chorus (“Romeo, save me…”) and the bridge (“I got tired of waiting…”) might be a bit tricky due to the swift chord changes. Practice this transition repeatedly to get a smooth flow.
Play Along: As with most songs, playing along with the original track or an acoustic version can significantly help in understanding the song’s tempo and rhythm.
3. “Our Song”
A classic Taylor Swift guitar song, “Our Song” boasts a simple song structure. The entire song primarily relies on easy chords, and with a capo on the second fret, it becomes even more beginner-friendly.
Mastering “Our Song” by Taylor Swift on the Guitar: A Guide for Beginners
Taylor Swift has always been a beacon for budding guitarists. Her early country-pop songs often featured straightforward chord progressions and catchy melodies, making them perfect for those just starting their musical journey. “Our Song” is no exception.
One of the standout tracks from her earlier work, this song showcases Taylor’s knack for blending storytelling with infectious music.
Essential Gear: The Capo
Before diving into the chords and strumming patterns, it’s essential to note that “Our Song” requires a capo. By placing a capo on the second fret, the song’s chords become easier to play, particularly for beginners who might find barre chords challenging. The capo also helps in achieving the original song’s key without having to adjust your tuning.
Chords to Know
Thanks to the capo, “Our Song” mainly revolves around these basic chords:
- G Major (G)
- D Major (D)
- Em7
- Cadd9
These chord shapes are standard in many Taylor Swift songs and are foundational for any beginner guitarist.
Strumming Pattern
The strumming pattern for “Our Song” is lively and upbeat. A simple pattern that fits the verses and chorus is:
Down, Down, Up, Down, Up, Down, Up
Ensure that you maintain a consistent rhythm, and as always, practice makes perfect. As you become more comfortable, you can adjust the strumming to add your flair or make it more aligned with Taylor’s version.
Song Structure
- Verse: G, D, Em7, Cadd9 (Repeated several times)
- Chorus: G, D, Em7, Cadd9 (Just like the verse but with a different vocal melody)
- Bridge: This section has a slightly different chord progression, but it still uses the chords mentioned above.
Playing Tips
Listen and Play Along: One of the best ways to familiarize yourself with the song’s nuances is by playing along with the original track. It will help you internalize the song’s structure, transitions, and rhythm.
Focus on Transitions: Swiftly moving between chords is crucial for maintaining the song’s flow. Practice transitioning between the chords until it feels smooth and second-nature.
Add Some Flavor: Once you’re comfortable with the basics, consider adding some palm muting during verses for dynamic variation or even trying a bit of fingerpicking during the bridge for a more personalized touch.
4. “Tim McGraw”
Written with Liz Rose, this was Taylor’s first song that introduced her to the world of country music. The guitar part in this song is straightforward, with chord progression that’s fairly simple for beginners to grasp.
Playing “Tim McGraw” by Taylor Swift: A Beginner’s Guide to Guitar
Taylor Swift’s “Tim McGraw” was the song that launched her into the spotlight of the country music scene. With its nostalgic lyrics and simple, yet emotive, melody, it became a favorite of many. Aspiring guitarists will be thrilled to know that the guitar accompaniment for this track is beginner-friendly. If you’re eager to start strumming along, here’s how to do it.
The Chords You’ll Need
For “Tim McGraw”, the primary chords used are basic open chords. These chords include:
- G Major (G)
- Cadd9
- D Major (D)
- Em7
These chords are commonly found in many Taylor Swift songs and other country-pop songs, making them great additions to a beginner’s chord repertoire.
Strumming Pattern
The strumming pattern for “Tim McGraw” captures the song’s laid-back and reflective mood. A simple pattern to start with is:
Down, Down, Up, Up, Down, Up
Remember to keep your strumming relaxed and fluid. As you become more comfortable with the song, you can adapt and embellish the pattern as you see fit.
Song Structure
“Tim McGraw” follows a classic verse-chorus structure:
- Verse: G, Cadd9, D, Cadd9 (This progression is repeated for each verse)
- Chorus: G, Em7, Cadd9, D
- Bridge: The bridge follows a different chord sequence but still uses the basic chords mentioned above.
Tips for Playing “Tim McGraw”
Practice Chord Transitions: Shifting smoothly between chords is vital for the song to sound cohesive. Dedicate time to practicing the transitions, especially between G and Cadd9, as they occur frequently in the song.
Listen Actively: Play along with the original recording of “Tim McGraw” to understand the song’s tempo, rhythm, and dynamics. This will give you a clearer sense of how the guitar part should sound.
Lyric and Chord Alignment: To ensure you’re changing chords at the right moments, familiarize yourself with the lyrics. Recognizing which words align with specific chord changes can be a helpful cue.
Experiment with Dynamics: Even though the song is straightforward, you can make your rendition stand out by varying your strumming dynamics. For instance, strum softly during the verses and build intensity during the chorus.
5. “Wildest Dreams”
From the “Red” album, this track is slightly more modern than her earlier work but still remains a T Swift song that’s beginner-friendly on the guitar. An acoustic version can be played with open chords, and the strumming pattern remains consistent throughout.
Learning “Wildest Dreams” by Taylor Swift: A Beginner’s Guide to Playing on Guitar
Taylor Swift has always had a gift for creating melodies that resonate deeply with listeners. “Wildest Dreams”, from her “Red” album, is no exception. While the track leans into a more modern sound compared to her earlier country music entries, it’s still wonderfully guitar-friendly and ideal for beginners eager to delve into Taylor’s discography.
This guide will break down the steps to help you play an acoustic version of “Wildest Dreams”.
The Chords You’ll Need
The foundation of “Wildest Dreams” can be laid using these basic open chords:
- C Major
- G Major
- D Major
- Em (E minor)
While there are variations you can incorporate as you become more advanced, these primary chords will serve you well as you’re starting out.
Strumming and Rhythm
One of the appealing aspects of “Wildest Dreams” for beginner guitarists is its consistent strumming pattern. A simple down-down-up-up-down-up pattern is effective and can be used throughout the entire song. It’s essential to maintain a steady rhythm, which complements the dreamy vibe of the track.
Song Structure and Chord Progression
“Wildest Dreams”, like many Taylor Swift songs, follows a structure that is easy to follow:
- Verse: C – G – D – Em
- Chorus: Em – C – G – D
- Bridge: Em – D – C
The progression might slightly vary, especially in the bridge, but these are the primary chord sequences for each section.
Tips for Playing “Wildest Dreams”
Practice Transitions: Swiftly transitioning between chords is crucial. Spend time practicing the change from one chord to the next to ensure a smooth flow.
Listen to the Song: Playing along with the original track will give you a better sense of the song’s pace and where the chord changes occur.
Experiment with Capo: If you own a capo, try placing it on different frets to match the song’s original key or to find a key that suits your vocal range if you plan to sing along.
Feel the Emotion: Taylor Swift’s songs are known for their emotional depth. As you play, try to connect with the song’s narrative and let that guide your strumming intensity and pace.
6. “Blank Space”
While the original song from the album showcases a more pop sound, it can be beautifully rendered on an acoustic guitar. The chord shapes are simple, and with a bit of palm muting, you can mimic the original’s percussive feel.
Additional Mentions:
- “Red”: Another hit from the “Red” album, this track can be played with open chords and a capo on the fifth fret.
- “Safe and Sound”: A collaborative effort with the Civil Wars, this hauntingly beautiful track showcases simple chords and can be easily adapted to acoustic guitar.
- “Cornelia Street”: This song from the “Lover” album is a testament to Taylor’s vocal delivery and lyrical prowess. The guitar part is beginner-friendly, and the entire song can be played using simple chords.
7.”I Dont Wanna Live Forever”
“I Don’t Wanna Live Forever” is a captivating pop ballad performed by Taylor Swift and Zayn Malik, known for its deep emotion and memorable melodies. For beginner guitarists eager to delve into Taylor Swift’s repertoire, this track offers a modern touch while retaining guitar-friendly chord progressions and rhythms.
Mastering “I Don’t Wanna Live Forever” on Guitar: A Guide for Beginners
“I Don’t Wanna Live Forever,” a sultry pop ballad performed by Taylor Swift and Zayn Malik for the soundtrack of the film “Fifty Shades Darker,” is a song full of deep emotion and poignant lyrical content.
For beginners looking to delve into Taylor Swift’s vast music collection, this track offers a refreshing modern sound while still being guitar-friendly. This article will guide you through the basics to get you started with this song.
Understanding the Chords
The song primarily revolves around a few main chords, making it accessible for beginner guitarists. Here are the basic chords you’ll need to know:
- C Major
- Am (A minor)
- F Major
- G Major
For those who find the F Major chord challenging, an easier alternative is the Fmaj7, which doesn’t require a barre grip.
Strumming the Right Way
The strumming pattern for “I Don’t Wanna Live Forever” can be approached in various ways, but for beginners, a basic down-down-up-up-down-up pattern should suffice. It’s important to maintain a mellow and consistent rhythm, capturing the song’s moody ambience.
Song Structure
Most popular songs, including “I Don’t Wanna Live Forever,” follow a familiar structure. Here’s a basic chord progression for the song:
- Verse: Am – F – C – G
- Chorus: F – C – G – Am
- Bridge: F – G – C
As you progress, you can experiment and add variations, but these sequences provide a solid foundation.
Tips for Effortless Playing
- Chord Transitions: The key to a smooth performance is mastering the switch between chords. Dedicate time to practice moving from one chord to the next.
- Play Along: To get a sense of the song’s tempo and feel, play along with the original track. It helps internalize the rhythm and chord changes.
- Use a Capo: If you own a capo, experiment by placing it on different frets. This can help adjust the song’s pitch to your comfort or closely match the original.
- Convey the Emotion: Remember, playing a song is not just about the chords and strumming. It’s about expressing the emotion behind the lyrics. As you play, immerse yourself in the song’s sentiment.
Final Thoughts
While Taylor Swift’s discography spans many songs, the ones mentioned above are among the easiest to play on the guitar. Whether it’s the acoustic or electric guitar, Taylor Swift guitar songs are versatile and can be adapted based on the player’s skill level.
Expand your repetoire by practicing more popular songs. check out the tutorials below:
https://allaxess.com/25-greatbeginner-classical-guitar-songs-learn-2016-tabs-included/
Remember, it’s essential to practice playing guitar regularly and watch music videos or live performances to understand the song’s feel better. From “Teardrops on My Guitar” to “Blank Space”, Taylor’s music provides a goldmine for those wanting to play songs on their guitar. So, grab your guitar, place the capo if needed, and dive into the enchanting world of Swift songs. Happy strumming!