Hi folks, today in this exciting endeavor, you’ll find a meticulously curated compilation of the top 20 best John Mellencamp guitar songs, including chords and tabs for each song.

If you are a guitar lover and a fan of classic rock, chances are you are well-acquainted with the indelible talent and revered artistry of John Mellencamp. I’m a huge fan myself. As a young kid my older brother inspired me to listen to all his records. I’m forever grateful.

Mellencamp is one of the most successful and influential American rock singers and songwriters of all time, with a career spanning over four decades and 24 studio albums.

His music is a blend of heartland rock, folk, blues, and country, and reflects his roots in Indiana and his social and political views. He has sold over 40 million albums worldwide, has been nominated for 13 Grammy Awards and is also a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

In this list you will find songs with different levels of difficulty, from beginner to advanced. Whether you want to learn some easy strumming songs or some beautiful guitar intros, you will find something for you in this list.

To navigate this list, you can use the table of contents below to jump to any song you want. You can also click on the song title to open a new tab with the chords and tabs for that song.

For each song, we have provided some background information, such as the album, release date, lyrics info, and key and included some tips and tricks on how to play the song, such as the strumming pattern, the chord progression, the capo position, and guitar gear.

To practice these songs in the best way on your guitar, I recommend that you follow these steps:

• Listen to the original song several times to get familiar with the melody, rhythm, and structure.
• Take your time to read the chords and tabs thoroughly.
• Start with the easiest songs or the ones you like the most, and work your way up to the harder ones.
• Practice slowly and gradually increase your speed until you can play along with the song.
• Use a metronome or a backing track to keep your timing consistent and accurate.
• Sing along or hum the lyrics if you can to improve your ear and musicality.
• Have fun and enjoy playing the songs!

Without further ado, here is our list of the top 20 best John Mellencamp guitar songs (incl. chords and tabs).

Let’s rock!

Join Guitarhabits for Free and Receive Quality Guitar Video Lessons, Chords, Tabs, Tips, Tricks and lots more – Sign up here for Free

Jack & Diane

“Jack & Diane” is a classic John Mellencamp song released in 1982 on the album “American Fool.” It’s a nostalgic anthem about two young American teenagers and their dreams. Mellencamp wrote the song, inspired by a real-life couple he observed at a basketball game. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1982.

The recording featured Mellencamp on vocals and rhythm guitar, Larry Crane on lead guitar, Toby Myers on bass and Kenny Aronoff on drums. For the recording a Gibson Les Paul Junior with a single P-90 pickup was used into a Fender Deluxe Reverb with a 12-inch speaker.

Guitar chords used in “Jack & Diane” are A, E, D and G. The song is in the key of A, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 116 BPM. The strumming pattern involves a combination of downstrokes and upstrokes, providing a steady rhythm throughout the song. To practice, start by mastering the chord changes and strumming pattern. Pay attention to the dynamics and add accents to highlight the chorus and bridge sections.

Jack and Diane Chords

Jack and Diane Tabs

Pink Houses

“Pink Houses” is a John Mellencamp song released in 1983 on his album “Uh-Huh.” The song serves as a commentary on the American Dream, highlighting the struggles and disillusionment faced by individuals in small-town America. Mellencamp wrote the song, drawing inspiration from his own experiences and observations of society.

During the recording of “Pink Houses,” John Mellencamp played an acoustic guitar while Mike Wanchic played an electric guitar. The song features a blend of both instruments to create a rich and layered sound. The specific guitar and amp used during the recording may vary, but Mellencamp is known for favoring vintage guitars like the Gibson J-45 and amplifiers such as the Fender Deluxe Reverb.

Chords used in “Pink Houses” are G, C, F and D. The song is in the key of G, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 126 BPM. The strumming pattern follows a classic rock rhythm, with downstrokes emphasized on the main beats and occasional upstrokes for added dynamics. You can play DUDU UDU (D=Down, U=Up).

Pink houses chords

Pink houses tabs

Small Town

“Small Town” is a heartfelt John Mellencamp song released in 1985 on his album “Scarecrow.” The song reflects on the simplicity, community, and struggles of growing up in a small town. Mellencamp co-wrote the song with George Green, and it resonates with listeners as a nostalgic anthem for small-town life.

During the recording of “Small Town,” John Mellencamp played an acoustic guitar, while Larry Crane played the electric guitar.

Chords used in “Small Town” (according to Ultimate Guitar) are D, G, C, Am, and Em. The song is in the key of B, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 118 BPM. For the strumming pattern you play D-D-DU-DU (D=Down, U=Up), counting 1 – 2 – 3and-4and with each measure.

Small town chords

Hurts so good

“Hurts So Good” is an energetic rock song by John Mellencamp, released in 1982 on his album “American Fool.” The song explores the theme of love’s bittersweet nature, highlighting the addictive and conflicting emotions that come with being in a passionate relationship. Mellencamp co-wrote the song with George Green, infusing it with his signature heartland rock sound.

During the recording of “Hurts So Good,” John Mellencamp played an electric guitar, while Lary Crane and Mike Wanchic contributed additional guitar work. Larry Crane used Marshall amps with an Altair Attenuator and Mike Wanchic, used mainly an old ’62 AC30 and Fender Bassmans in the studio.

Chords used in “Hurts So Good” are A, E, F#m, D . The song is in the key of A, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 135 BPM. For the strumming pattern you can play a straightforward D-DU-U-DU (D=Down, U=Up), counting 1-2and-(3)and-4and. (skip playing the 3 and strum up on the And). To practice, focus on nailing the chord changes, maintaining a tight and energetic rhythm, and incorporating some palm muting for a punchier sound.

Hurts so good chords and tabs

Lonely Ol’ Night

“Lonely Ol’ Night” is a heartfelt rock song by John Mellencamp, released in 1985 on his album “Scarecrow.” The song delves into the theme of loneliness and longing for connection, capturing the essence of late nights filled with solitude. Mellencamp co-wrote the song with George Green, infusing it with his signature blend of rock and roots influences.

During the recording of “Lonely Ol’ Night,” John Mellencamp played a Fender telecaster, while Larry Crane contributed additional guitar work. The song features a dynamic guitar sound with a mix of clean and slightly overdriven tones, adding depth to its emotional resonance.

Chords used in “Lonely Ol’ Night” are E, Esus4, A, Asus4 and D. The song is in the key of E, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 123 BPM. For the strumming you can play any 4/4 rhythm pattern like the standard DDUUDU and variations of this, also accenting for added dynamics.

Lonely Ol’ night chords

Cherry Bomb

“Cherry Bomb” is an energetic rock song by John Mellencamp, released in 1987 on his album “The Lonesome Jubilee.” Mellencamp wrote the song, infusing it with his signature blend of rock, folk, and country influences. The song was inspired by the teen clubs that Mellencamp used to go to in Indiana in the 1960s.

For the album The Lonesome Jubilee and the song”Cherry Bomb” Mellencamp used a variety of different instruments like dobro, autoharp, banjo, violin and accordion which gives the songs an enormous rich and full sound. He also used four extra vocalists: Crystal Taliefero, Toby Meyers, Mike Wanchic and Pat Peterson.

Chords used in “Cherry Bomb” (according to Ultimate Guitar) are G, Am, Em, Bm, C and C/D. The song is in the key of G, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 134 BPM. The strumming pattern for the song is D-DU-D-DU, counting 1-2and-3-4and.

Cherry Bomb chords

R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A.

“R.O.C.K. in the USA” is an upbeat rock anthem by John Mellencamp, released in 1986 on his album “Scarecrow.” The song s a tribute to 60s rock and was inspired by several artists that influenced Mellencamp such as Martha Reeves, Mitch Ryder and James Brown.

During the recording of “R.O.C.K. in the USA,” John Mellencamp played electric guitar, while Larry Crane contributed additional guitar work. The song also features prominent drums, bass, keyboards, and backing vocals, creating a full and energetic sound.

Chords used in “R.O.C.K. in the USA” are E, A, D, and B. The song is in the key of E, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 150 BPM. The strumming pattern for the song is D-DU-DU-DU-U-DU-U-DU, counting: 1-2and-3and-4and-(5)and-6and,(7)and,8and. Skipping the 5 and the 7 and strumming up on the “and”.

R.O.C.K. in the USA chords

Crumblin’ Down

“Crumblin’ Down” is a gritty rock song by John Mellencamp, released in 1983 on his album “Uh-Huh.” The song addresses the theme of societal and personal decay, expressing frustration with the state of the world. Mellencamp wrote the song, infusing it with a rebellious spirit and powerful guitar-driven sound.

Chords used in “Crumblin’ Down” are A, G/A, E, G and D. The song is in the key of D, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 146 BPM. The song starts with a cool chord riff that continues into the verse. See chords and tabs.

Crumblin’ down chords and tabs

Rain on the Scarecrow

“Scarecrow” is a heartfelt anthem written by John Mellencamp, released in 1985 on his album of the same name. The song delves into the struggles of the working class, painting a vivid picture of small-town America. “Scarecrow” reached #2 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and #7 on the Billboard Hot 100.

During the recording of “Scarecrow,” John Mellencamp played a Fender Telecaster through a Fender Deluxe Reverb amplifier. The song features a variety of instruments, including drums, bass, keyboards, and acoustic guitar, creating a rich and energetic sound.

Chords used in “Scarecrow” are Em, G, D, and C using the capo on the 2nd fret. The song is in the key of F#m, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 120 BPM. The strumming pattern for the song is a steady down-up strumming style, emphasizing the strong beats to maintain a driving rhythm.

The riff in the intro and throughout the song is a really cool feature the practice and play.

Rain on the scarecrow chords (easy)

Rain on the scarecrow Tabs + Chords (intermediate)

Paper in Fire

“Paper in Fire” is a politically charged song written by John Mellencamp, released in 1987 on his album “The Lonesome Jubilee.” The song tackles the themes of disillusionment and the destructive nature of greed. “Paper in Fire” peaked at #9 on the Billboard Hot 100.

John Mellencamp played a Gibson Les Paul through a Vox AC30 amplifier during the recording.

Chords used in “Paper in Fire” are: B7, E/B, B5, A, E and D, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of around 142 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses is a steady down-up strumming pattern, while the chorus has a more driving and aggressive down-down-up pattern.

Paper in fire chords

Authority Song

“Authority Song” was released in 1983 on his album “Uh-Huh,” the song is an expression of rebellion and the desire to break free from societal norms and reached #15 on the Billboard Hot 100.

During the recording of “Authority Song,” John Mellencamp played a Gibson ES-335 through a Fender Twin Reverb amplifier. The song features a dynamic arrangement with instruments like drums, bass, electric guitar, and piano.

Chords used in “Authority Song” D, G and A. The song is in the key of D, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of around 130 BPM. The strumming pattern for the song is a driving down-downup-down-downup pattern, counting 1-2and-3-4and.

Authority song chords

Check It Out

“Check It Out” is a catchy rock song written by John Mellencamp. Released in 1987 on his album “The Lonesome Jubilee,” the song reflects on the struggles and complexities of relationships. “Check It Out” peaked at #14 on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing Mellencamp’s ability to craft relatable and melodic tunes.

During the recording of “Check It Out,” John Mellencamp played a Fender Stratocaster through a Vox AC30 amplifier. The song features a range of instruments including drums, bass, organ, and accordion, creating a textured and lively sound that complements Mellencamp’s emotive vocals.

Chords used in “Check It Out” are: C – G – Gsus4 – F – G/B – Cadd9 – Em7 – Am – D. The song is in the key of C, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 130 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses is a relaxed down-down-up pattern, while the chorus has a more driving down-up-down pattern.

Check it out chords

Play guitar

“Play Guitar” is an upbeat rock song written by John Mellencamp. Released in 1983 on his album “Uh-Huh,” the song is a satire of the rock star culture and the idea that playing guitar can make you attractive to women. Mellencamp wrote the song as a way of expressing his frustration with the music industry and his desire to make music on his own terms. Although it didn’t chart as a single, it remains a fan favorite.

Chords used in “Play Guitar” are A, D and G. The song is in the key of A, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of around 130 BPM. The strumming pattern for the song is a steady down-down-up pattern, emphasizing the strong beats to maintain a lively and driving rhythm pattern.

Practice with a metronome or a drum beat / loop to ensure steady timing and become a tight guitar player.

Play guitar chords

I Need a Lover

“I Need a Lover” was released in 1979 on his album “John Cougar,” the song portrays the longing for a passionate and fulfilling romantic connection.

The guitar intro is an iconic and instantly recognizable part of the song which lasts for about two minutes before the vocals start. The intro consists of a main riff that is played three times in different keys followed by a variation of the riff that is also played in different keys. The riff is based on a pentatonic scale and uses hammer-ons, pull-offs, slides, some guitar fills and solos that add some variation and excitement. The intro is played by Mellencamp and his guitarist Larry Crane, who also co-wrote the song with him.

Chords used in “I Need a Lover” are F#, C#, B, D, A, G. The main key of the song is A, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 138 BPM. The strumming pattern for the song can be played as down-down-up-up-down-up.

I need a lover chords

I need a lover tabs

Key West Intermezzo (I Saw You First)

“Key West Intermezzo (I Saw You First)” is a vibrant rock song written by Mellencamp and his longtime friend and collaborator George Green, who also worked on songs like “Hurts So Good” and “Crumblin’ Down”. The song was released in 1996 on his album “Mr. Happy Go Lucky,” and captures the excitement and allure of a chance encounter in Key West, Florida. “Key West Intermezzo” reached #14 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it Mellencamp’s final top-40 hit in the US.

Chords used in “Key West Intermezzo”are G, D, C, Am and D/G, tuning a half step down. The song is in the key of G, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of around 120 BPM. The strumming pattern for the song can be played as down-down-up, counting 1-2and-3-4and.

The song has also a catchy guitar intro played by two guitars: one plays a melodic riff that slides up and down the fretboard, while the other plays chords that follow the progression of G-D-C.

Key West Intermezzo chords and tabs

Human Wheels

“Human Wheels” is a heartfelt rock ballad that delves into the complexities of human existence and the pursuit of individual identity. It was written by John Mellencamp and George Green and released in 1993 as the title track of his album “Human Wheels.” The song peaked at number 48 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song was also covered by Amy Grant for her 2005 album Rock of Ages…Hymns and Faith.

During the recording of “Human Wheels,” John Mellencamp used a Gibson Les Paul guitar and a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp.

Chords used in “Human Wheels” (according to Ultimate Guitar): G, C, D, Em, D/F#. The song is in Em, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 80 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses and chorus consists of alternating downstrokes and upstrokes: down, down-up, down, up, down, up, counting 1-2and-3and-4and. Experiment with different embellishments and variations to make the song your own.

Human wheels chords

Wild Night” (with Meshell Ndegeocello)

“Wild Night” was written by Van Morrison and first released in 1971 on his album “Tupelo Honey.” Mellencamp covered the song with Meshell Ndegeocelloand on bass and vocals and released their version in 1994, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. For the song John Mellencamp used a Fender Stratocaster guitar and a Fender Twin Reverb amp.

Chords used in “Wild Night” (according to Ultimate Guitar): Em, G, C and D. The song is in the key of E minor, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 118 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses and chorus follows a rhythmic down-up-down-up pattern.

To practice “Wild Night,” start by familiarizing yourself with the chord progression and the strumming pattern. Focus on maintaining a consistent rhythm and incorporating the song’s energetic spirit into your playing. Experiment with adding fills and embellishments to make the song more dynamic. Pay attention to the transitions between the chords for smooth and seamless changes. Finally, listen to the original recording and other live performances to capture the essence and feel of the song.

Wild night chords

Weakest moments

“Weakest Moments” was written by John Mellencamp and released in 1982 as the closing track of his fifth studio album American Fool. It is a slow and melancholic ballad, with lyrics that express vulnerability and self-doubt. The song feats Mellencamp on vocals and acoustic guitar, George Perry on bass, Kenny Aronoff on drums, Larry Can and Mike Wanchic on electric guitar.

The song was produced by Mellencamp and Don Gehman, who also engineered the album. The song was not released as a single, but it has been praised by critics and fans as one of Mellencamp’s most emotional and honest songs. In a 2007 review of American Fool, Rolling Stone magazine called it “a stunningly beautiful ballad”.

Chords used in “Weakest Moments” (according to Ultimate Guitar): A, Dsus2, A7sus2, G6, D, E, F#m and G. The song is in the key of A major, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 75 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses and chorus consists of gentle downstrokes, emphasizing the emotions of the lyrics. Use a delicate touch to allow the chords to ring out and create a sense of intimacy.

Weakest moments chords

Minutes to memories

Minutes to Memories is a song by John Mellencamp, released in 1985 as the fourth track of his eighth studio album Scarecrow. It is a folk rock song that tells the story of a young songwriter who meets an old man on a bus and learns from his life experiences and advice. The song was co-written by Mellencamp and George Michael Green and produced by Mellencamp and Don Gehman. Minutes to Memories reached number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

During the recording of “Minutes to Memories,” John Mellencamp used a Gibson J-200 acoustic guitar and a Fender Twin Reverb amp.

Chords used in “Minutes to Memories” are D, Cadd9, Dadd2, A and G using the capo on the 2nd fret. The song has a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 120 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses and chorus follows a rhythmic down-up-down-up pattern.

Minutes to memories chords and tabs

Rumbleseat

Rumbleseat is a song by John Mellencamp, released in 1986 as the second single from his eighth studio album Scarecrow, it is a rockabilly song that describes the life of a poor and restless man who rides in the rumble seat of a car. The song was written by Mellencamp and features him on vocals and guitar, Larry Crane and Mike Wanchic on guitars, John Cascella on keyboards, Toby Myers on bass, and Kenny Aronoff on drums.

Chords used in “Rumbleseat” are E, A and B, using the capo on the 1st fret. The song is in the key of E major, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 150 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses and chorus follows a down-up-down-up-down-up-down-up pattern counting 1and-2and-3and-4and.

Rumbleseat chords

Rumbleseat tabs

Check out the official chords and Tabs in the John Mellencamp Guitar Collection

I hope you enjoyed this list of the top 20 best John Mellencamp guitar songs, and learned some new songs and riffs. John Mellencamp’ songs are great for improving your classic rock guitar skills and have fun along the way.

If you liked this article, please share it with your friends and fellow guitar players. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to the Guitarhabits’ newsletter to get more guitar tips, tricks, and lessons delivered to your inbox. You can also follow us on social media to stay updated on our latest posts and videos.

Thank you for reading and happy playing!

I

Video Lesson

How to Match Chord with Melody Guitar

We’re going to match the chords C, F and G with some nice 3rd intervals creating a melody that fits perfectly right with the chords and chord progression.

The key thing to learn here is to know the intervals match the chords so you can always play these intervals next time when you’re playing the chords in different progression or song to spice things up whenever you feel like it.

Enjoy!

TABS

Hi there, Join Guitarhabits and receive Free Quality Guitar Video Lessons, Top Content, Tips, Tricks, Resources & (bi)Weekly Guitarhabits’ Backpack Email full of good stuff.
SIGN UP HERE: https://guitarfirstchord.com/sign-up-guitarfirstchord/
Support my work here: https://guitarfirstchord.com/donate/

How to Play Beautiful Chords and Melody

For this chord melody we start the song in Am. The chords for this tune are Am – G (add9) – F – D – Dsus2 – Dm – Gsus4 and C. For the right hand we use the picking technique, where you always play with your pick in the direction of the next following note (I explain this in the video lesson).

You can also play the tune using the fingerpicking method with the thumb for the Low E – A and D string, the index finger for the G-string, the middle finger for the B-string and the ring finger for the high e-string.

This is a beautiful chord melody to practice, memorize and keep practicing to become part of your guitar repertoire.

Enjoy to the fullest!

If you want more of this check out:
Mix Chords, Licks & Melody
Combine Chords and Melody | G – C – D | 
Chord Melody Guitar | C – F – G – Am – Dm |

Video Lesson

Mix Chords, Licks and Melody

Learning to combine chords and licks is a skill that has to be trained and practiced. It’s a different technique that requires you to anticipate your next move where your fingers have to jump from chords to single notes lines.

Tips

• Practice and memorize then entire tune from beginning to end
• Practice the chord strumming slowly
• Practice the licks / fills slowly
• Practice the chord strumming and fills slowly
• Hear me: When I say slowly, I mean slowly
• Make sure each notes sounds clean and clear
• Gradually increase your speed when you a bit comfortable
• Learn how to practice faster
• Practice daily

Tablature

If you want more of this check out:
Combine Chords and Melody | G – C – D |
Chord Melody Guitar | C – F – G – Am – Dm |

Video Lesson

Chord Melody Guitar | C F G Am Dm |

In today’s lesson we are using the chords C F G Am and Dm to play a chord progression and playing melody incorporated into the chords themselves. This is a nice sweet melody using pull-offs to add embellishments and set up this tune.

Have fun!

Tabs:

If you like the lesson subscribe to Guitarhabits’ Youtube channel for more!

Video Lesson

Combining Chords with Melody

You can play this sweet little melody between the chords of G – C and D, but once you got those comfortable under your fingers you can also use others chord derived from the G major scale like: G – Am- Bm – C – D – Em – F#dim – G. Okay F#dim will be your least favorite, but the others chords will sound great around the melody.

Enjoy experimenting and have fun!

Tabs

Ending G – G6sus4 – G

If you like the lesson subscribe to the Youtube channel for more!

Hi lovely people, I’ve got a 12 Bar Blues Progression for you today with a basic strumming pattern, a basic turnaround and some extra fancy triplet turnarounds to spice things up.

Basic 12 Bar Blues Progression

This 12 Bar Blues shuffle is in the key of E and moves through the following 12 bar chord progression:

/ E7 / E7 / E7 / E7 / A7 / A7 / E7 / E7 / B7 / A7 / E7 / B7 /

 The last four bars of the progression function as the turnaround. You can play this by strumming through the pattern / B7 / A7 / E7 / B7 / or finish it with a more enhanced turnaround that makes the progression sound really cool. Eventually you want to learn both. If you’re a beginner just start with the basic turnaround.

Basic 12 Bar Blues Strumming Pattern

For the strumming pattern we play: ↓↓↑↑↓↑ “down-down-up-up-down-up” for each bar / measure throughout the entire progression.

Below there’s a video lesson where I explain the entire 12 bar blues with the strumming patten and different blues turnarounds.

Enjoy!

Hi amazing people, today I’ve got 12 Bar Blues Riff / Lick with a blues turnaround for you on the table. It’s it’s raw, groovy and in your face. This is a real nice complete riff blues progression to play on your porch while enjoying the sunset with a cold beer.

12 Bar Blues Riff / Lick + Turnaround

This 12 Bar Blues is in the key of G and moves through 12 bar chord progression. The riff contains hammer-ons and a cool technique to give the blues some extra oomph.

The chord progression is as follows:

/ G7 / G7 / G7 / G7 / C7 / C7 / G7 / G7 / D7 / C7 / G7 / D7 /

A second guitarist could literally play this chord progression while you’re playing the 12 bar blues riff or you could record the progression on your phone and play the riff over the progression.

If you want to know how to play the chords for this progression check out How to Play and Apply Dominant 7th Chords

Below you can find the Tablature and video lesson for this 12 Bar Blues Riff:

Have a great one!

Hi Folks, today I’m going to teach you how to play “A horse with no name” by America. It was the bands first single and also their most popular one.

It’s a delightful song to play in all its simplicity. Once you get the hang of the strumming pattern you really get into the flow and the vibe of the song. You’ll love it.

A Horse with No Name – Easy 2 Chord Song

“A horse with no name” is an easy song that is a must song for beginner guitar players. The song contains 2 chords: Em and D6-9/F#. While the D6-9/F# chord name sounds complicated the chord itself is really easy to play.

Em = 022000

D6-9/F# = 2×0200

Here’s how to read chord diagrams and other chord notation like the one above.

A horse with no name – strumming pattern:

The song has two easy to follow strumming patterns:

Em = ↓↓↑↓↓↑

D6-9/F# = ↓↑↓↑↓↑↓↑

Watch the video guitar lesson below to learn the entire song step by step. 

Enjoy!

Please share your feedback in the comments below or on Youtube. I read and reply to everyone of them. I’d love to hear from you! 

Learning to play guitar can seem a bit challenging, but did you know you can play millions of songs with just four easy guitar chords? Yes you can, absolutely!

With 4 simple guitar chords you can play songs from any genre like pop, rock, campfire or 60’s songs. Choose your pick.

4 Chords for Most Songs

The 4 chords, 4 chord progression and 4 chord songs are related to the 80/20 principle. It means that 20% of causes / input (20% of all chords and progressions) leads to 80% of results / output (80% of the songs). The 80/20 principle, als called the Pareto principle, can be applied to all things in life, and for guitar playing we can see it in learning 4 chord songs.

There are a few basic chords that you need to learn. With those basic chords you can build the most common 4-chord-progressions to play almost any song you want.

4 Chord Progressions

You can build a 4 chord progression from the notes of the major scale or natural minor scale. In music we use roman numerals to indicate the order of chords in a chord progression. Let’s take the chords built of the C Major scale for example – The key of C:

I = C Major
ii = D minor
iii = E minor
IV = F Major
V = G Major
vi = A minor
vii = Bdim.

Now one of the most common 4 chord progression is I – V – vi – IV ( 1 – 5 – 6 – 4 ) If we follow the numeral numbers in the key of C we end up with the chord progression: C – G – Am – F. You can follow this chord progression throughout the whole song.

If you check out the songs in the list below you can already see plenty of songs with this chord progression, but if you take the chord progression I – V – vi – IV and run it through the key of G you get: G – D – Em – C. So in a different key you get a different set of chords but it contains the same chord structure. You can play the same song in different keys if you like.

If you look at the progression in the list below you also see different chord progression in the same key. There are lots of them just in a different order. Ed Sheeran’s song “Perfect” follows the chord progression: I – vi – iv – V ( G – Em – C – D ). If we translate that chord progression I – vi – iv – V to the key of C you get: C – Am – F – G. You can do this with any key.

Below the song-chart you can see examples of the I – vi – iv – V chord progression in major keys and i – VI – III – VII in minor keys. There are 12 keys in total but to make life easier for you I’ve just formulated the most easy key progressions.

4 Chord Songs

Now you know the music theory behind the progressions it’s time to play some easy 4 chord songs. Click on the song titles to see the video guitar lessons, click on “Chords” for the lyrics & chords to the song, and in the last row under “propr.” you can see the 4 chord progression for the entire song. If you want a strumming pattern to go with song check out Basic Strumming Patterns for Guitar

Enjoy the songs!

4 Chord Pop Songs

We start off with some 4 chord pop songs from 2000 to 2021. As you can see the best pop songs all use the same chord progression. Pop is also the style of music that makes the most use of the famous 4 chord progression. The ear likes that sequence of chords. It just sound really good.

Featured 4 Chord Song: Shivers – Ed Sheeran

4 Chord Rock Songs

There are plenty of pop, alternative and classic rock songs that also use the 4 chord progression, although bands like Linking park, Greenday and Offspring often use power chords instead of open or bar chords.

4 Chord Campfire Songs

4 chord “G-Em-C-D” progressions are perfect for Campfire songs. You want perform a song that you can easily play and sing along without having to think about all the different chord transitions throughout the song. Simplicity is key here. If you want to you can even string all the songs together and play it as a whole. It’s going to be a great night at the campfire!

Featured 4 chord songs: Stand by me – Ben E King

4 Chord Beatles Songs

In the chart below you can find some Beatles songs using only four chords. While not all the songs use one and the same chord progression throughout the whole song it does only take four chords to play the songs. Have fun!

4 Chord Song Keys

Let’s take a look at the most common and easy 4 chord progressions in different keys. We’ve got songs starting in the key C, G, D, A and E using the I – vi – iv – V chord progression and songs starting on Am, Dm and Em using the i – VI – III – VII chord progression.