For guitar players and musicians alike, Damien Rice stands as a masterclass in the art of songwriting with unique songs like The Blowers Daughter and Cannonball. He’s definitely one of my favorite artists.

Damien goes to the deepest core of his soul and you hear it right away. This is as authentic as it gets.

He knows how to craft a great song with beautiful melodic phrases accompanied by delicate and raw rhythm guitar playing. It’s all there, in each and every song.

I’ve listed the top 10 of songs that really stand out for me. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

There are links to the videos, tablature and chords so you can pick your favorite and learn to play it, study it and master it. There’s a lot to learn from.

Remember, Practice and you’ll become a better guitar player. It’s that simple!

What are the Best Damien Rice Songs to Play on Guitar

1 – Cannonball

Cannonball is one of Damien Rice’s best known songs. It has a really cool guitar phrase that is played throughout the verses and starts with the capo on the 6th fret.

Once you got this phrase under your belt you’re hooked and wanna keep playing it over and over again.

The intro theme is more suited for intermediate guitar players, but of course you can simplify the song by just playing the chords so you can sing along with it.

The chords for the verses are: Em7 – Cadd9 – G – G/F# (3 times) and then Am7 – C/B – C – D. For the chorus Damien plays G – Cadd9 – D (3 times) ending with Am7 – Cadd9 – D – Em7.

Chords or Tabs

2 – Delicate

The song “Delicate” is played in the key of C with capo on the 5th fret using hammer-ons with the second (middle) finger on the C and Fmaj7 chords to create beautiful chord harmonies.

The combination of playful chord progressions and vocal melodies makes this a one of my favorite songs to play and sing.

Chords and Tabs

3 – The Blowers Daughter

This is the song where it all started. The song cut’s through your musical soul if you take the time to listen to with undivided attention. This masterpiece is unique and Rice at his best when he plays it live. Definitely check it out some his live performances on Youtube.

Chords

4 – Amie

The song “Amie” is an acoustic emotional folk ballad played on his beautiful sounding Lowden guitar. It’s an easy to play guitar song that could move you to tears because of the way he plays and sings it.

In the video above he explains the story behind the song, which paradoxically is quite hilarious.

The Song’s title  “Amie” means friend in French which gives it a dual meaning. The song is played with the capo on the 7th fret.

For the verses he plays G  – Gadd9/F# – Em7 – C – Am7  – Em – C – D and the progression for the chorus is Em – C – D – G  – C – Bm – Am7 – C – D.

Chords

5 – The Box

After many years of silence Damien Rice came out with a new album “My Favourite Faded Fantasy” with some new crafted treasures equipped with beautiful chord harmonies and lyrical melodies. The Box is one of those songs, so simple , elegant and so powerful.

Although we’re talking guitars here, the lyrics of this song are absolutely spot on. Everyone can find something that resonates, whether it’s relationship wise, a job, a phase, a feeling, or just life itself. Moreover, it’s a really nice and simple song to play and sing that you will absolutely enjoy.

The chords for the verses are G – D – Em7 – Bm and for the chorus Am(add9) – Em7 (4 times).

Chords

6 – Coconut Skins

Coconut Skins is an uptempo acoustic song that is really fun to play using the famous Wonderwall chords as I like to call them. The song uses one chord progression throughout the entire song starting out gently and building up to an exploding climax. Try this one, you’ll love it.

Coconut skins: /  Em7    /    %   /   %   /   Em7  Gadd9\F#   /  G   /  %   /  %  /   G   Gadd9\F#  / 

Chords

7 – Me, My Yoke and I

Me, My, Yoke and I is one of the lesser known songs by Damien, but it’s oh so good. It’s got a crazy rocking slide riff that will crank up your amp. It’s really fun to play!

It starts with strumming an Am chord twice and then your second finger on the D-string from that chord will slide to the 10th fret. You do that a couple of times then you quickly jump to a G chord and then strum the F chord twice where you third finger on the A-string from the F-chord will slide to the 10th fret. This is the main riff that is played throughout the song.

Chords or Tabs

8 – Colour Me In

Colour me is a tender vulnerable love song with an absolutely beautiful melody. As often with Damien’s songs he starts out softly and gradually builds up to a climax to bring in those deep heart-felt emotions.

The chords for the verses are C – F – G – C – F – G – Am – C – F – G. The chords for chorus are C – F – G – C – Am – G – Am – C – F – G

He spices up the chords with sus2 and sus4 chords to add some flavor and uses a combination of strumming and finger style for the right hand. Check out the live version of the song from the Guardian Sessions.

Chords or Tabs

9 – Volcano

Volcano is a song with a really great groove and musical vibe to it. Along with his partner Lisa Hannigan they make for a perfect duo in this song bringing out the absolute best.

The song has a nice chord rhythm riff that is mainly playing the chord progression Am – G – F for the verses and Am – G – F – G for the chorus. 

You can also play the chords more intermediate style by playing the Am as an open shape chord starting on the 5 fret (x77500) then going to the G6 (x55430) and then Fmaj7 (x33210)

Chords or Tabs

10 – The Animals Were Gone

This is a georgous melancholic song that involves a nice easy fingerpicking pattern that is really doable. Perfect for beginner guitar players, but just as much fun for guitar players of any level, cause in the end it’s all about the song.

The chord progression for the verses is : G – C – Am – D – G – Em – Am – B7 and for the chorus the chords are: Am – G – Am – G and you play that four times.

Chords or Tabs

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Many years ago I searched for “Damien Rice similar artists” on Last.fm and suddenly I heard a song called “La Cienega Just Smiled”. The song and the voice caught my attention, so I looked up the artist and found out his name was “Ryan Adams”.

I started diving into his songs and a whole new world opened up for me, I couldn’t stop listening and playing his songs. I was absolutely sold, and I still am. My guitar students have to learn a lot of Ryan Adams songs haha!

For me Ryan Adams has the whole package. A magnificent voice, rough and tender rhythm guitar, damn riffs, heavenly harmonies and a beautiful mix of alternative country and rock music.

It’s staggering I haven’t written this blog post before but now it’s time! I’ve created a Top 28 Best Ryan Adams guitar songs that give you a pretty good introduction and insight into the awesome catalog of brilliant songs this man has written and performed over the years.

I’ve included the chords and tabs to the songs below so you can start improving your guitar playing, your songwriting skills and learn from the absolute best.

Have a wonderful time and thank me later ;)

Oh My sweet Carolina

“Oh My Sweet Carolina” is one of Ryan’s most cherished songs, its emotional folk-rock ballad released in 2000 as part of his debut solo album “Heartbreaker.”

For the backing vocals, he reached out to Emmylou Harris (one of Ryan Adams’ heroes) who provided her angelic voice, adding the perfect touch that made the song complete.

Adams wrote the song while living in New York City, far away from his Southern roots. Feeling the pull of his homeland, he penned the song as a form of catharsis and a way to express his yearning for the familiar landscapes and memories of North Carolina.

The song is in the key of C major, with a 4/4 time signature and a gentle tempo around 75 BPM. The song is a mix of finger style and soft strumming using hammer-ons and pull-offs on the C chord. The chords in the song are C, F, G, G, Am and C/G.

Do I wait

“Do I Wait” is a soulful track (one of my top 3 favorite go-to-songs to play and sing) released on October 11, 2011 on the 13th studio album Ashes & Fire, .” Written during a time of personal reflection, it showcases Adams’ songwriting prowess and emotional depth.

The song was recorded with producer Glyn Johns at Sunset Sound Studios in Hollywood California.

The key of the song is G major, in a 4/4 time with a moderate tempo around 100 BPM. The song starts with an absolutely gorgeous chord-riff that is also played during the verses and then moves on to a chorus with an incredible vocal melody line supported with an easy chord progression that fits perfectly.

The chords in the song are C, G, Am, Em, D, C/B. providing a melodious backdrop to Adams’ introspective lyrics and soulful delivery.

Come pick me up

“Come Pick Me Up” is a cool song and made its debut in 2000 as part of his album “Heartbreaker.”

The song is known for its heartfelt and emotionally charged lyrics. It’s a melancholic and somewhat desperate plea for comfort and companionship during a time of heartache. The song’s chorus, “Come pick me up, take me out, fuck me up; steal my records, screw all my friends,” captures the raw and honest expression of pain and vulnerability.

The song is in the key of C major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 74 BPM. Chords used in the song include G, Em7, C, Csus2, Csus2/B, D and G/B, which combine to form the bittersweet backdrop for Adams’ heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies.

When the stars go blue

“When the Stars Go Blue” was released in 2001 on his album “Gold.” It’s a song that beautifully explores themes of love and longing.

The song was also covered by the Irish band “The Corrs and Bono from U2.

The song is in the key of G major, adhering to a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 120 BPM. The strumming pattern predominantly plays down-up-down-up creating a gentle and rhythmic flow for the song. There are only four chords in the song: Am, C, G and D.

If I am a stranger

“If I Am a Stranger” was released in 2005 as a mid-tempo song on the album “Cold Roses“, but re-released in 2007 on the album “Easy tiger” as a beautiful slow acoustic song where the guitar-riff really stands out.

In 2015 the song was recorded as a live version on the album “Live at Carnegie Hall”, which is my personal favorite recording of the song.

The song is in Gm with a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 85 BPM. The strumming pattern involves a combination strumming and finger style. The song is played with the capo on the 3rd fret playing the following chords: Em, G6, C for the verses and Dadd4, Em, C, C/B and G for the chorus.

Lucky now

“Lucky Now” is a single that was released in 2011 as part of his album “Ashes & Fire.”

The song starts out with a beautiful intro playing the chords C, F and G using hammer-ons and pull-offs in the typical Ryan fashion.

The song is in the key of C major, playing in a 4/4 time with a tempo of around 95 BPM. It’s a simple 4-chord song consisting of C, F, G and Am.

Dirty rain

“Dirty Rain” is a great song with a bluesy feel. It was released in 2011 on his album “Ashes & Fire.”

The song was inspired by a real-life experience that Ryan Adams had while he was living in New York City. In 2011, Hurricane Irene hit the city and caused widespread flooding and destruction. Ryan Adams said that he wrote “Dirty Rain” as a way of processing his emotions after the storm.

The song is in the key of E major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 92 BPM. Chords used in the song are E, A, B, C#m and G#m.

Invisible Riverside

“Invisible Riverside” is a beautiful song by Ryan Adams from his 2011 album “Ashes & Fire.”

The song was inspired by English singer-songwriter Laura Marling’s second album, “I Speak Because I Can”. After former producer Ethan Johns sent Adams a copy of the album, he threw out 80% of what he had written for “Ashes & Fire” and started over. Adams has said that Marling’s music “messed him up” in the best possible way, and that he was inspired to write “Invisible Riverside” after seeing her perform.

The song is in the key of D major, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of around 75 BPM. The chords for the song are D, C, G, A, Am, Fmaj7, Am/B, F and Em.

Ashes and fire

“Ashes and Fire” is a gorgeous blues-soulful composition released in 2011 on his album of the same name. The song is about a person who is trying to come to terms with the end of a relationship. The lyrics describe the person’s feelings of sadness and regret as they reflect on the past.

The song is in the key of Bb major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 80 BPM. The song is played with the capo on the 3rd fret using the chords G, G6sus4, C, Cadd9 and Em.

Firecracker

“Firecracker” is a catchy track written. It was released in 2001 on his album “Gold.” The songwriting process for this tune reflects Adams’ ability to blend rock and folk influences into an infectious and memorable song.

The song is in the key of Bb major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a lively tempo around 145 BPM. The guitar rhythm predominantly involves a down-down-up-up-down-up strumming pattern. The song is played with the capo on the 3rd fret, playing the chords G, C, D, A, Em, Am and Bm.

16 days

“16 Days” is a song by the band Whiskeytown, which Ryan Adams formed before pursuing his solo career. The song was released in 1997 as part of the album “Stranger’s Almanac.”

It’s one of the early songs that he still performs today on his live shows. The song is in the key of G major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 84 BPM. The chords used in the song are G, F, C and Am.

Everybody knows

“Everybody Knows” is a poignant song by singer-songwriter Ryan Adams, co-written with guitarist Neal Casal. It was released in 2007 on his album “Easy Tiger.” This track exemplifies Adams’ ability to blend elements of folk and rock, creating a raw and emotionally charged sound.

Although “Everybody Knows” didn’t make significant chart appearances, it’s appreciated by fans for its introspective lyrics and passionate performance.

The song is in the key of F major, played with the capo on the 3rd fret using the chords D, A7sus4, C, F, Am, G, D7 and Cadd9.

Two

“Two” is a beautiful touching ballad from his 2007 album “Easy Tiger”. The lyrics describe the singer’s desire to be close to the object of their affection, which in this case is drugs.

The song is in the key of A major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 74 BPM. The capo is on the 2nd fret playing G, C, D and Em.

Desire

“Desire” is a captivating song that was released in 2002 on his album “Demolition.”

The song is in the key of G major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 80 BPM. The song is played with the capo on the 5th fret using the chords D, G, Bm, Bm/A, Em7, G/F# and A.

New York, New York

“New York, New York” is an iconic song written and performed by the versatile singer-songwriter Ryan Adams. Released in 2001 on his album “Gold,” the song was written as a tribute to New York City, where Ryan Adams lived for several years.

The lyrics mention several lower Manhattan geographic references, including the intersection of Avenue A and 10th Street, Houston Street, and Avenue B. In the song, the singer reflects on his life in New York and a failed love affair.

The music video for “New York, New York” was filmed on September 7, 2001, just four days before the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center. The video features Ryan Adams performing in front of the Manhattan skyline from Brooklyn. The Twin Towers can be prominently seen in the background. As a result of the attacks, a message was placed at the end of the video dedicating it to those who lost their lives and to “those who worked to save them”.

The song is in the key of A major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 96 BPM. The song is played with the capo on the 2nd fret using the chords G, G6sus4, D and C.

La Cienega just smiled

“La Cienega Just Smiled” is a song, released in 2000 as part of his album “Heartbreaker.” The song was written as a homage to Los Angeles, where Ryan Adams lived for several years. The lyrics mention several geographic references in the city, including La Cienega Boulevard and Melrose Avenue.

The song is in the key of G# major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 84 BPM. The song is played with the capo on the 3rd fret, using the chords F, G, C, C/B and Am.

Wild flowers

“Wild Flowers” is a soulful song released in 2000 on his album “Heartbreaker” often performed live with guitar player and band member Neil Casal. The song was written as a tribute to Tom Petty, who was one of Ryan Adams’ biggest musical influences. 

The song uses a combination of fingerpicking and strumming. The song is in key of D major and consists of the chords D, Dsus2, D9, D/F#, Gmaj7, G6, A, Em7, Gm7, Em, G, Dm, C, F#, Bm, Em/F# and F#m.

Rosalie come and go

“Rosalie Come and Go” is a song by Ryan Adams, released in 2001 on his album “Gold.” The song has a real nice Rolling Stones / Black Crowes kind a vibe to it.

The song is in the key of E major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 120 BPM. The Chords of the song are E, D, A, Esus4 and Fm.

To be young (is to be sad, is to be high)

“To Be Young (Is to Be Sad, Is to Be High)” is an alternative country rock song that was released in 2000 on his album “Heartbreaker.” This is the only song on his debut solo album that was co-written with guitarist David Rawlings.

The song is in the key of C major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 108 BPM. The strumming pattern primarily involves a mix of downstrokes and upstrokes, creating a rhythmic and engaging feel that complements the song’s youthful and carefree spirit. The chords of the song are G, C, C7, D, Em, Am, Em9, GMaj7/B, Dadd4/F#, Gmaj7 and C/B.

My winding wheel

“My Winding Wheel” is a soulful song written by Ryan Adams. It was released in 2000 as part of his debut solo album, “Heartbreaker.”

During the recording, Adams used his Gibson J-45 acoustic guitar and a vintage microphone that he had purchased at a flea market just before the session.

The song is in the key of G# major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 74 BPM. Chords used in the song encompass Am, G, C, Bm, D and C/B, playing it with the capo on the 1st fret.

Let it ride

“Let It Ride” is a captivating song by the talented singer-songwriter Ryan Adams, co-written with his band The Cardinals. It was released in 2005 as part of the album “Cold Roses.”

During the recording of “Let It Ride,” Ryan Adams and The Cardinals were working with legendary producer Tom Schick. The song starts out with a beautiful finger style guitar intro that is the main guitar theme for the song.

The song is in Dm, with a 4/4 time signature and a moderate tempo around 82 BPM. The song is played with the capo on the 5th fret and the chords for the song are Am, F, C and G.

Magick

“Magick” is a lively and energetic song by Ryan Adams and The Cardinals. Released in 2008 on his album “Cardinology,” and known for its rock and roll spirit.

The song is played in Bm, in 4/4 time with a tempo around 90 BPM. The rhythm primarily involves a down-down-up-up-down-up strumming pattern. The chords used in the song are Bm, D A, E, B and G.

Mockingbird

“Mockingbird” is a song by Ryan Adams, released in 2005 on his album “Cold Roses.” The album was recorded with his band “The Cardinals” and was well received by critics and fans alike.

The song itself is a melancholic ballad about a man who is trying to make a relationship work but feels like his efforts are not enough.

The song is played in C#m, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of 100 BPM. Chords used in the song encompass C#m, E, A, F#m and Bm.

Sweet Illusions

“Sweet Illusions” is a song by Ryan Adams and the Cardinals and was released in 2005 as part of his album “Cold Roses”.

In “Sweet Illusions”, Adams sings about the pain of letting go of someone he loves, even though he knows it’s for the best. The song is a poignant reminder that sometimes, even when we know something isn’t right for us, it can be hard to let go.

The song is played in Bm, played with the capo on the 2nd fret using the chords Am, G, C, F and Dm.

When will you come back home

“When Will You Come Back Home” is an acoustic alternative country ballad that was released in 2005 on his album “Cold Roses.” with his band The Cardinals.

The song is in the key of E major, played with the capo on the 2nd fret and the chords for the song are D, A, G, Em, Bm and Esus4.

Give me something good

“Give Me Something Good” is a song by Ryan Adams that was released in 2014 as part of his self-titled album. The song is a driving rock anthem with a catchy melody and a powerful chorus.

The song was inspired by Adams’ love of classic rock and roll, and he has cited bands like AC/DC and Van Halen as influences. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Adams said that he wanted to create a song that would make people feel good and get them excited about music again.

The song is played in Bm with the capo on the 2nd fret, using the chords Am, G, Fsus2, F, A, C and Am7.

My wrecking ball

“My Wrecking Ball” is a touching song that was released in 2014 on his self-titled album “Ryan Adams,” the songwriting in this track reflects Adams’ ability to convey raw emotion and vulnerability.

During the recording, Adams used a 1970 Harmony Buck Owens American acoustic guitar with the unmistable red white and blue finish.

The song is played with the capo on the 4th fret and the chords are F, C, Gsus4, Am7, Fmaj7, Fmaj9 and C/B.

Answering bell

“Answering Bell” is a compelling song released in 2001 on his album “Gold” and later released as a live version on “Live at Carnegie Hall”.

The music video for the song was directed by Luke Scott and was loosely based on “The Wizard of Oz”. The video features cameos by Elton John, Adam Duritz (Counting Crows), and singer-songwriter Leona Naess, who was briefly engaged to Adams.

The song is in the key of G major and the chords for the song are G, Bm, C, Cadd9, D/F#, Em7 and D.

Download Free Ryan Adams Chords and Tabs links sheet here

There’s no doubt about it, John Mayer is one of the few popular singer songwriters, if not the only, from the last two decades who also happens to be a virtuoso guitar player who’s name won’t be forgotten.

With his soulful vocals and bluesy guitar licks, Mayer has created a catalog of really good songs that showcase his incredible guitar skills.

From the sultry tones of “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room” to the heartfelt melodies of “Gravity,” John Mayer has a knack for weaving his emotions into every note he plays.

His ability to blend various styles, from blues and rock to pop and folk, makes him a versatile guitarist whose songs appeal to a broad audience.

In this blog post, I’ve created the Top 10 Best John Mayer guitar songs that have left an indelible mark on both guitarists and music lovers alike.

While most of the songs are for intermediate and advanced guitar players, you can also just play the chords and strum along to the song if you like to sing, making it an easier and fun experience for all levels of playing.

I’ve included the chords and tabs to the songs so you can pick your favorites and start practicing.

Have a great time!

Slow dancing in a burning room

“Slow Dancing in a Burning Room” is a superb song in every way and is one of the top favorites among John Mayer’s fan base. The song was released in 2006 on John’s album “Continuum,” and made a significant impact on the charts, peaking at number 71 on the Billboard Hot 100.

During the recording of this track, John Mayer used his Fender Deluxe Stratocaster close-miked with a SM-57, C-451 and a C-24 room microphone. For the overdubs he used several Two rock amps. Other instruments on the track included a bass guitar, drums, and keyboards that created the overall mesmerizing sound.

The song is played in the key of C# minor, with a 4/4 time signature and a moderate tempo of around 75 BPM. Chords used for “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room” include C#m, A, D, G, E, B, Aadd9, Badd11, and F#m11, and G#m7. These chords are beautifully woven together to create the melancholic and captivating melody for this classic Mayer tune.

The heart of life

“The Heart of Life” is an emotionally charged song that was released in 2006 as part of his album “Continuum.” It didn’t make significant waves on the charts but has remained a fan favorite for its soulful lyrics and melody.

During the recording of “The Heart of Life,” John Mayer used a Fender Stratocaster guitar and a Dumble Overdrive Special amp to achieve the warm and clean tones. The Dumble Overdrive Special is a boutique guitar amplifier that was hand-built by Alexander “Howard” Dumble in the 1970s and 1980s. It is known for its unique sound and rarity, with only around 300 units ever produced.

The key of the song is C# major, and played in a 4/4 time signature at a moderate tempo of around 90 BPM. Chords used for “The Heart of Life” played with the capo on the 1st fret are C, Am, Em, F and G.

For the strumming John uses a technique called the Slapping thumb technique. It is a fingerstyle technique that involves slapping the bottom strings with the thumb while simultaneously hitting higher strings with the index and middle fingers. The percussive slap produced by the thumb is similar to a snare drum and needs to be consistent in rhythm and sound.

Stop this train

“Stop This Train,” a poignant composition by the talented John Mayer, was released in 2006 on his album “Continuum.” This introspective track reflects on the passage of time and the desire to hold on to life’s fleeting moments. It didn’t chart prominently but struck a chord with listeners on a deeply personal level.

During the recording of “Stop This Train,” John Mayer opted for his trusty Martin OM-28M Eric Clapton Signature acoustic guitar to achieve its warm, resonant tones.

He plays the song in the key of D major, employing a 4/4 time signature at a tempo of around 94 BPM. The strumming pattern involves a technique called the ‘slapping thumb technique’ maintaining a steady and contemplative rhythm throughout the song.

Chords used for “Stop This Train” include Gmaj7, Dsus2, Dmaj13, Bm9/D, Asus2/D for the verse and GmMaj7, D/F#, E9, Gsus2/A, A7, Am7 and A9 for the chorus. These chords, combined with Mayer’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful delivery, create a song that resonates with anyone grappling with the relentless march of time.

Gravity

“Gravity” is a slow soulful ballad released in 2006 on the album “Continuum,” John told at a concert in December of 2005 that this song was the most important song he’d ever written.

During the recording of “Gravity,” John Mayer chose his beloved Fender Stratocaster guitar, coupled with a vintage Dumble Steel String Singer amplifier, to craft its signature bluesy, emotive sound.

The song is performed in the key of G major, maintaining a steady 4/4 time signature at a languid tempo of approximately 64 BPM. Chords used for “Gravity” include G, C, D/F#, Am7, D7, Gm/Bb and Ebmaj7.

Vultures

“Vultures” is a rock-infused track that was released in 2006 as part of his album “Continuum.” Known for its beautiful guitar riff/theme where he makes use of double stops, it made a notable impact on the rock charts, reaching number 32 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks.

During the recording John Mayer turned to his gold leave Stratocaster. John said it was the guitar the wrote the song on and the only guitar the song works on.

“Vultures” is performed in F#m, maintaining a standard 4/4 time signature at a brisk tempo of around 126 BPM. Although the song is predominantly played with double stops you can play it in an easy fashion using the chords F#m, A and B.

Love on the weekend

“Love on the Weekend” is a beautiful relaxed tune you would listen to riding in your car on a Friday night. It’s a perfect song for beginners playing two measures of each chord throughout the song and a nice and easy intro solo.

Released in 2016 as a single and served as a precursor to his album “The Search for Everything” the tune achieved moderate success, peaking at number 53 on the Billboard Hot 100.

During the recording of “Love on the Weekend,” John Mayer relied on his trusty Fender Stratocaster guitar, coupled with a vintage-style Fender Deluxe Reverb amplifier, which provided the song’s warm and inviting tones.

“Love on the Weekend” is played in the key of G major, maintaining a familiar 4/4 time signature at a comfortable tempo of around 90 BPM. For the strumming pattern you can play down-down-up-up-down-up allowing the guitar to groove smoothly along with the song’s laid-back rhythm, creating a perfect backdrop. Chords used for “Love on the Weekend” include G, C and D.

Neon

“Neon” is a dazzling display of John Mayer’s guitar virtuosity. Written by Mayer himself, this intricate piece was released in 2001 on his debut album, “Room for Squares.” While it didn’t make significant chart waves, it has become a hallmark of Mayer’s live performances.

For the recording of “Neon,” John Mayer employed his signature Fender Stratocaster guitar paired with a Two-Rock Custom Reverb amplifier.

“Neon” is played in C#m, maintaining a 4/4 time signature at a brisk tempo of approximately 116 BPM. The strumming pattern is complex, involving a combination of precise downstrokes and rapid upstrokes and John’s thumb slap fingerstyle technique.

While the song is not your straight forward chord strumming tune the chords for the song include C#m, Eb, Fm, Ab, Bb, Gm, Gb and C. “Neon” remains a challenging yet rewarding piece for guitarists looking to push their boundaries and explore the world of fingerstyle playing.

Why Georgia

“Why Georgia” is a beautiful melodic song. It was released in 2001 on his debut album, “Room for Squares,” marking Mayer’s emergence as a singer-songwriter.

For the recording of “Why Georgia,” John Mayer relied on his Martin D-28.

The song is played in the key of G major, maintaining a common 4/4 time signature at a moderate tempo of around 95 BPM. The strumming pattern involves the thumb slap technique that became his trademark. For a simplified version of the song you can play the chords: G, D, C, Em, A and F.

Queen of California

“Queen of California” is a great fingerpicking song. The song was released in 2012 as part of his album “Born and Raised,” this song marks a transition in Mayer’s new sound towards folk and Americana. It enjoyed modest success, reaching number 67 on the Billboard Hot 100.

During the recording of “Queen of California,” John Mayer utilized his Martin 00-45SC acoustic guitar and a vintage-style Fender Deluxe Reverb amplifier, achieving the song’s warm, folk-inspired tones.

The song is played in the key of G major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature at a relaxed tempo of around 84 BPM. The strumming pattern involves his famous thumb slap technique, but if that is beyond your capacity you can also play it without the slap which sounds pretty good too. The chords for “Queen of California” are G, C, Am and D.

Perfectly Lonely

“Perfectly Lonely” is a soulful catchy pop song by John Mayer. This song was released in 2009 on his album “Battle Studies”.

For the recording of “Perfectly Lonely,” John Mayer relied on his signature Fender Stratocaster guitar paired with a vintage-style Fender Deluxe Reverb amplifier, creating the song’s distinctive bluesy tones. .

“Perfectly Lonely” is played in the key of C major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature at a moderate tempo of around 94 BPM. The strumming pattern a sophisticated mix of downstrokes and upstrokes, but also allows a simple 4/4 strumming pattern. Listen to the song and try to catch the groove by strumming along to the rhythm. The chords used for “Perfectly Lonely” are C, F, Dm, G, Em, Am and F.

Download Free John Mayer Chords and Tabs links sheet here

Greetings, fellow guitar aficionados, today we’re going to embark on an exciting lesson through the world of Neil Young’s best guitar songs. If you aren’t familiar with Neil’s repertoire you should definitely check it out and study it to the bone, because there is so incredibly much to learn from.

There’s no musician more authentic and real in his music and playing than Neil.

Neil Young is a legendary musician known for his great melodies and versatile guitar playing style. He has inspired countless musicians around the world.

Whether you love strumming along to beautiful acoustic guitar classics or you want to learn how to play rocking guitar riffs on the electric guitar, you’re in for a treat. I’ve put together a list of the top 20 Neil Young guitar songs that are sure to get your fingers moving and your heart singing.

The songs are both for the seasoned and beginner guitar player, and offer something for everyone. So grab your guitar, find a cozy spot, and get ready to strum along to some of the most iconic and authentic guitar songs ever created. Let’s dive in together!

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Heart of Gold

The song “Heart of Gold” was written by Neil Young in 1971 and released as part of his album “Harvest.” It reached the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1972.

During the recording of “Heart of Gold,” Neil Young played a Martin D-28 acoustic guitar and a Hohner Marine Band G major harmonica. The song contains a beautiful simple riff that is a “must know” for every guitar player.

Chords used for “Heart of Gold” (according to Ultimate Guitar website) are G, Em, C, and D. The song is played in Em, with a 4/4 time signature, and a tempo around 84 BPM. The strumming pattern consists of gentle downstrokes for the verses and a combination of down-up strums for the chorus.

Heart of gold chords

Like a Hurricane

“Like a Hurricane” is a powerful rock ballad that embodies themes of love, desire, and emotional turmoil. Written by Neil Young, the song was composed in 1975 and released on his album “American Stars ‘n Bars.” It received critical acclaim and reached number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

For this song Neil Young used his trusty Gibson Les Paul Old Black guitar through a Fender Deluxe Reverb amplifier, producing the song’s signature gritty and soaring sound.

Chords used for “Like a Hurricane” are Am, G, F, Em C and Fmaj7. The song is played in Am with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of around 85 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses consists of powerful downstrokes with occasional upstrokes to match the song’s energy, while the chorus calls for full-force downstrokes to create that epic rock vibe.

Like a hurricane chords

Cortez the Killer

“Cortez the Killer” is a haunting masterpiece written by Neil Young in 1975, released on his album “Zuma.” The song showcases Young’s signature blend of poignant lyrics and intricate guitar work. On the charts, the song didn’t make a significant impact, but it remains a classic among Neil Young fans.

During the recording of “Cortez the Killer,” Neil Young used a Gibson Les Paul electric guitar, plugged into a tweed Fender Deluxe Reverb amp. The song featured a wide array of instruments, including drums, bass, and keyboards, along with Young’s mesmerizing guitar.

Chords used in “Cortez the Killer” (according to ultimate-guitar.com): Em, D and Am7 . The song is in the key of Em with a 4/4 time signature, and a tempo of approximately 66 BPM. The strumming pattern includes a mix of downstrokes and upstrokes to create a flowing and dynamic rhythm.

Cortez the killer

Old man

“Old Man” is a classic folk-rock song written by Neil Young in 1971, released on his album “Harvest.” The heartfelt lyrics were inspired by Young’s encounter with the caretaker of the ranch he had purchased in California. The song became a commercial success, reaching #31 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #4 on the Canadian RPM Top Singles chart.

During the recording of “Old Man,” Neil Young played a Martin D-45 acoustic guitar, which contributed to the warm and inviting sound of the song. Other instruments featured in the recording included bass, drums, piano, and harmonica, adding depth and texture to the arrangement.

Chords used in “Old Man” (according to ultimate-guitar.com): D, Dm7, Dsus4, F, C, G, Am7 and Em7. The song is in the key of D major, with a 4/4 time signature and a gentle tempo of around 82 BPM. The strumming pattern follows a laid-back down-up-down-up-down-up pattern.

Old man chords

Powderfinger

“Powderfinger” is a timeless masterpiece penned by Neil Young, released in 1979 on his album “Rust Never Sleeps.” This poignant song showcases Young’s songwriting prowess, depicting a haunting tale of regret and vulnerability. It climbed to the 61st spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Neil Young wielded his trusty Gibson Les Paul Old Black guitar on the recording. The song is played in the key of G major, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of around 98 BPM. The chord progression revolves around G, C, Bm and D chords. The strumming pattern involves a delicate mix of downstrokes and upstrokes, giving the song its distinctive rhythm.

Powder finger chords

After the Gold Rush

“After the Gold Rush,” written by Neil Young, was penned with poetic brilliance, released in 1970 as the title track of his album. This introspective song weaves intricate narratives, exploring themes of love and environmental concern. It reached the 22nd position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

An upright piano that belonged to Nils Lofgren and a French horn, played by Bill Peterson, were used on the original recording of the song.

“After the Gold Rush” is played in the key of D major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a gentle tempo around 75 BPM. The chords for the song are D, G, A, Bm and C. For the strumming pattern you can play soft downstrokes with a rhythmic up-down motion, mirroring the song’s contemplative piano rhythm.

After the gold rush chords

Rockin’ in the Free World

“Rockin’ in the Free World,” a Neil Young anthem etched with social commentary, emerged in 1989 from the album “Freedom.” Crafted through Young’s signature raw emotion, the song paints a vivid picture of societal challenges. It soared to the 2nd position on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart.

For the recording Neil wielded his iconic Gibson Les Paul Old Black guitar, channeled through a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp fueling its rock energy.

The song is in the key of Em, maintaining a 4/4 time signature at a brisk tempo of approximately 146 BPM. The chords for the song are E5, D5, C5, Em, D, C, G and A. Channel the song’s vigor with a dynamic strumming pattern using power chords in the verses, following by a quick down-up motion using open chords in the chorus. Let your guitar roar and unleash with this great song.

Rockin in the free world chords

Down by the river

“Down by the River,” penned by Neil Young, flowed from his creative depths and was released in 1969 as part of the album “Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere.” This poignant song was marked by its introspective lyrics and extended guitar solos, capturing a sense of melancholic exploration. It left an imprint on the 37th spot of the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

For this song Neil opted for his Gibson Les Paul Old Black guitar, through a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp. The song’s emotive landscape was enriched by the harmonious blend of Young’s guitar, Ralph Molina’s drums, and Billy Talbot’s bass.

The song is in the key of Em, adhering to a 4/4 time signature with a steady tempo around 86 BPM. The chords are Em, Em7, Cmaj7, A, Bm, C, D and G repeating the following strumming pattern: down-down-down, down-up-down-up-down, down-up-down.

Down by the river chords

Harvest moon

“Harvest Moon,” a heartfelt creation by Neil Young, graced the world in 1992 as the title track of his album. Written with profound tenderness, with a beautiful acoustic guitar intro, the song evokes themes of love and connection. It landed warmly on the 36th spot of the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Neil used his enchanting Gibson J-180 acoustic guitar during the recording. The song’s atmosphere was further elevated by the harmonious interplay of acoustic instruments, including pedal steel guitar and harmonica.

We’re playing the song in D major, using the chords D, D6, Dmaj7, Em7, G6, A7sus4, A7 and A maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a gentle tempo around 100 BPM. Capture the song’s intimate essence and simplicity with a straight forward down-down-up-up-down-up strumming pattern.

Harvest moon chords

Cinnamon Girl

“Cinnamon Girl,” emerged in 1969 as part of his album “Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere.” Written by Neil with raw energy, the song captivates with its gritty guitar riffs and distinct sound. It rocked its way onto the 55th position of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, leaving a lasting impact.

“Cinnamon Girl” resides in the key of D major using the chords D, Am, C, F, G and Gm maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 132 BPM. The song combines a strong riff alternated with a open chord progression playing a down-down-up-up-down-up strumming pattern.

Cinnamon girl chords

Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black)

“Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black),” a Neil Young classic, was written with a touch of raw genius, released in 1979 as part of the album “Rust Never Sleeps.” This iconic song delves into the paradoxes of fame and artistic integrity. It made its mark as an enduring rock anthem and stands as a testament to Young’s lyrical prowess.

Young played his electric guitar through a nasty and filthy distortion to crank things up and giving the song a raw feel.

The song in the key of Am, playing the chords Am, F/A, G6, G, C and F adhering to a 4/4 time signature with a steady tempo around 95 BPM.

Hey, hey, my, my chords

Southern Man

“Southern Man,” emerged in 1970 as part of Neil’s album “After the Gold Rush.” Crafted with stark social commentary, the song addresses racial issues and southern history.

Not everyone was happy with Young’s message. The southern rock group Lynyrd Skynyrd believed that Neil Young was unjustly portraying and disrespecting the entire southern region. In reaction, they crafted their own track titled “Sweet Home Alabama.” Within this song, they sang “Well, I heard Mister Young sing about her / Well, I heard ole Neil put her down / Well, I hope Neil Young will remember / A Southern man don’t need him around anyhow.”

Venture into the musical terrain: “Southern Man” is rooted in the key of Dm, maintaining a 4/4 time signature at a moderate tempo of around 100 BPM. The chords for the song are: Dm – Bb – Gm – Fmaj7/C – G7 and A.

Southern man chords

The Needle and the Damage Done

“The Needle and the Damage Done,” was written by Neil Young, as a stark reflection on the consequences of drug addiction. The song was released in 1972 on the album “Harvest,” although it didn’t chart as a single, this acoustic ballad is a favorite among guitar players.

Neil Young’s Gibson Hummingbird acoustic guitar, accompanied by his evocative vocals, was recorded to capture the raw essence of “The Needle and the Damage Done.”

Now, let’s delve into the musical details: “The Needle and the Damage Done” is played in the key of D major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a gentle tempo around 95 BPM. Embrace the song’s heartfelt emotion with a delicate strumming pattern. The following chords are played in the song: D – C – Cadd9 – G – Gm – Bes – F – Esus4 and E.

The needle and the damage done chords

The needle and the damage done tabs

Ohio

“Ohio,” by Neil Young, emerged in 1970 as a response to the tragic events at Kent State University, capturing the fervor of anti-war protests. Released as a single, it reached the 14th position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, magnifying its impact.

Neil Young’s trusty Les Paul Sunburst guitar, channeled through a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp, resonated powerfully during the recording of “Ohio.” The track’s sound was heightened by the emotive blend of Young’s unpolished raw guitar playing and David Crosby’s backing vocals.

Dive into the musical core: “Ohio” is rooted in the key of E minor, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 112 BPM. The chords for the song are: Dm – F – C – Gm.

Ohio chords

Only Love Can Break Your Heart

“Only Love Can Break Your Heart,” a soul-stirring creation by Neil Young from his album “After the Gold Rush.” is about vulnerability and heartache. It reached the 33rd position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Neil Young’s Gibson Hummingbird acoustic guitar was tenderly recorded for “Only Love Can Break Your Heart,” complemented by the poignant interplay of his vocals and the subtle harmonies.

Venture into the musical landscape: “Only Love Can Break Your Heart” resides in the key of D major, maintaining a 6/8 time signature with a gentle tempo around 76 BPM. The chords for the song are: A7 – D – G – A – Dmaj7 – F#m – Em. For the strumming pattern you can play down-down-up-down-up following a 6/8 feel.

Only love can break your heart Chords

Helpless

“Helpless,” a poignant creation by Neil Young, emerged in 1969 as part of the Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young album “Déjà Vu.” Written with a sense of vulnerability, the song captures moments of introspection and longing. Although it didn’t chart as a single, it remains a soulful gem cherished by many.

“Helpless” is rooted in the key of D major, following an easy chord progression of three chords D , A and G. The song has a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 86 BPM. You can play a relaxed rhythm strumming down(1-2)-down(3)-up(and)-down(4)-up(and), to set an introspective mood.

Helpless chords

Cowgirl in the Sand

“Cowgirl in the Sand,” is a mesmerizing Neil Young song from the 1969 album “Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere.” Written with poetic depth, the song captures a sense of longing and nostalgia.

Neil Young’s Gibson Les Paul Old Black guitar, paired with a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp, reverberated during the recording of “Cowgirl in the Sand.” The track’s atmospheric quality was enhanced by the interplay of Young’s guitar, Ralph Molina’s drums, and Billy Talbot’s bass.

Embark on the musical journey: “Cowgirl in the Sand” resides in the key of Am, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a steady tempo around 84 BPM. The chords for Cowgirl in the sand are Am – F – C – G – Dm – Em – E7 – A – F#m – D – E – Bm – C#m and F#.

Cowgirl in the sand chords

On the beach

“On the Beach,” a beautiful Neil Young masterpiece, emerged in 1974 as the title track of his album. Crafted with introspective depth, the song delves into themes of personal reflection and societal disillusionment. It didn’t chart as a single but has garnered a loyal following for its contemplative resonance.

During the recording of “On the Beach,” Neil Young channeled his Gibson Les Paul Old Black guitar through a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp, capturing the song’s raw energy adding a slight distortion.

Embark on the musical journey: “On the Beach” resides in the key of A minor, maintaining a 4/4 time signature at a tempo around 100 BPM. To capture the song’s emotive essence, employ a strumming pattern that mirrors its introspection. The songs chords are Am7 – Am9 – Dm – Cmaj7 – Dm7 – Fmaj7.

On the beach chords

Long my you run

“Long May You Run,” penned by Neil Young, was born out of an ode to his cherished 1948 Buick Roadmaster hearse, an emblem of his relationship with bandmate Stephen Stills. Released in 1976 on the album of the same name, the song holds a bittersweet nostalgia for Young’s past companionship.

During the recording of “Long May You Run,” Neil Young harmonized his voice with an Ovation Adamas 12-string acoustic guitar, bringing a resonant quality to the track. The song’s warm timbre was further enhanced by the mix of drums, bass, and harmonica, painting a heartfelt musical picture.

Dive into the musical realm: “Long May You Run” is anchored in the key of D major, set to a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 112 BPM. The chords for the song are D – A/D – G – Bm – A – Bm7 – Asus4 – Dsus4 – Bb – A7.

Long may you run chords

Walk on

“Walk On,” is a captivating song by Neil Young, from his 1974 album “On the Beach.” Written with resilience, the song reflects on moving forward despite challenges.

The song’s vibrant sound was enhanced by the blend of Young’s vocals, harmonica, and the ensemble’s harmonies.

Let’s delve into the musical intricacies: “Walk On” is rooted in the key of A major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature at a tempo around 124 BPM. To capture the song’s uplifting spirit, employ a strumming pattern that mirrors its steady feel and tempo. The chords progression for the verses are 1 bar “A major” and 1 bar “D major” playing it 8 times over. The chorus plays A – C#m – C#m – F# (3 times) and then E – D and and A – A9 – D, Amaj7 – Dmaj7 – D6 – D, ending the song with a beautiful simple guitar riff.

Walk on chords

What’s your favorite Neil Young song? Feel free to share your feedback in the comments below. I appreciate it.

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!

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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.

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Thank you for reading and happy playing!

I

Hi Folks, as a guitar student and musician you need to learn your Tom Petty songs and for a good reason!

Tom was a great American singer-songwriter who left an indelible mark on the world of rock music.

With his distinctive raspy voice and catchy songwriting, he became known for his ability to blend elements of rock, folk, and Americana, creating a unique and timeless sound.

In 1976, he gained widespread recognition with his band, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and later as a solo artist creating the iconic album “Full moon fever” produced by Jeff Lynne, and went on to release a string of great albums and hits.

Tragically, Tom passed away on October 2, 2017, leaving behind a profound influence on generations of musicians.

Luckily his songs are left for us to play, to study, to practice and enjoy. Tom Petty’s songs are a really good source to develop all the different skills you need as a guitar player from common chords and progressions, embellishments, catchy riffs, licks, and great song writing.

In this carefully curated list, you can find the cream of the crop from Petty’s extensive catalog, from the infectious hooks of “Free Fallin'” to the anthemic power of “American girl,” each song offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into Petty’s signature guitar style.

So grab your favorite six-string, make yourself some good coffee and let’s explore the magic of Tom Petty’s guitar-driven classics. Each title contains a link to Youtube and a link to the chords / Tabs and lyrics for the song.

Enjoy your practice and have a great one!

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1 – “Free Fallin’

“Free Fallin’ was written by Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne for the album “Full moon fever” and was released in 1989. The song was recorded in just two days and used a multitude of acoustic guitar to create that incredible dreamy sound. 

It’s a nostalgic song about personal freedom and embracing life’s journey. It encourages you to let go and enjoy the ride, capturing the essence of self-discovery and adventure.

The song is in the key of F major and can be played as a beginner-friendly version by playing it with the capo on the 3rd fret following the chords D – G – D – A (sus4) throughout the entire song.

Free falling chords

2 – “I Won’t Back Down”

This song is an empowering anthem, released in 1989, and embodies resilience and determination. It’s a reminder to stay true to yourself and stand strong in the face of adversity.

With basic open chords like Em , D, G and C “I Won’t Back Down” is approachable for beginner guitarists. The song follows a verse-chorus structure, making it easy to learn and perform.

I won’t back down chords

3 – “American Girl”

“American Girl” is a classic rock song that captures the spirit of youthful rebellion and American dreams. The songs was released for their self-titled debut album in 1976 and tells the story of a young woman’s experiences and embodies the essence of rock ‘n’ roll energy.

The progression incorporates basic open chords like D, E7, G, and A. The song follows a verse-chorus-bridge-chorus structure, giving you the chance to practice chord progressions and transitions. The melody and rhythm allows for energetic strumming.

American girl chords + TABS

4. “Learning to Fly”

Learning to Fly” is a reflective song about personal growth and taking risks. It encourages listeners to embrace life’s challenges and soar to new heights.

The chords for the song include F, C, Am and G offering opportunities for intermediate players to develop their barre chord technique or you could play it just as easy with open chords.

Learning to fly chords

5. “Mary Jane’s Last Dance”

This haunting and mysterious song, released in 1993, tells a story of lost love and farewell. It explores themes of obsession and bidding farewell to a past romance.

“Mary Jane’s Last Dance” incorporates chords like Am, G, and Dsus2, Em7 and A providing an opportunity to practice finger positioning and transitions. The melody, based on the A minor scale, creates a moody atmosphere, allowing for expressive strumming and vocal interpretations.

Mary Jane’s last dance chords + TABS

6. “Breakdown”

“Breakdown” is a catchy rock song that delves into themes of heartbreak and vulnerability. The song was released in 1976 for the self-titled album “Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers” and it tells the story of a relationship falling apart and the protagonist’s struggle to cope with the emotional turmoil.

The easy chords for this song are perfect for beginners. The song contains the chords Am – G – Fmaj7 and Fmaj7sus2 throughout most of the verses and chorus, providing a solid foundation for rhythm guitar. The rhythm involves a combination of strumming and palm muting, creating a captivating groove.

Breakdown chords + TABS

7. “Refugee”

Refugee was released in 1979 on the album “Damn the Torpedoes,” the song is a powerful rock anthem that embodies resilience and determination. It tells a story of survival, urging listeners to persevere through life’s challenges and find strength within.

The chord progression follows F#m – A -E (4x) and then D and B, in both the verses and chorus, creating a driving and energetic sound with the use of power chords.

Refugee chords + TABS

8. “Don’t Do Me Like That”

“Don’t Do Me Like That” is a catchy rock song that delves into the frustration and uncertainty of a strained relationship. It emphasizes the need for respect and fair treatment in love.

The chord progression follows G – F(maj9) – C – D in both the verses and chorus, creating a catchy and memorable sequence and ideal for beginners to practice

Don’t do me like that chords

9. “Into the Great Wide Open”

“Into the Great wide open” was released in 1991 on the album of the same name, “Into the Great Wide Open” tells a cautionary tale of a young man named Eddie who embarks on a journey to stardom but faces the pitfalls of the music industry. Johnny Depp was casted for the video of the song.

The chords for the song starts with Em – EmMaj7 – Em7 – Em6 for the intro and first part of the verse and then continues with Am – Am/G – Am/F# – Am/G – and G – F – C – G – C – G creating a beautiful chord progression. The chorus turns goes into a more major feel good flavor that opens up the song with a catchy melody.

Into the great wide open chords

10. “Runnin’ Down a Dream”

“Runnin’ Down a Dream” was written by Tom Petty, Mike Campbell, and Jeff Lynne and released in 1989 on the album “Full Moon Fever”. It’s an energetic rock anthem about pursuing one’s aspirations with unwavering determination. The song tells the story of a relentless pursuit of a dream, overcoming obstacles and staying focused on the journey.

The song features a driving chord progression of E – D for the verse and A – G – E throug the chorus making it an excellent choice for practicing power chords. The rhythm combines a mix of palm-muted downstrokes, open strums, and occasional accents, creating a rhythmic groove that propels the song forward.

Running down a dream chords + TABS

Check out the official chords and Tabs in the “Tom Petty – The Definitive Guitar Collection (Guitar Recorded Versions)”

Since I don’t want to leave the songs on the shelf (I’m certainly not planning to) and start putting the songs out in the world, I thought I begin to share one with you. I just took my guitar right out the case and started playing and singing. Afterwards I added the lyrics and some clips to convey the emotion and feeling of the song. I hope you like it.

Enjoy!

New Song: “Stepping Away” ~ Klaus Crow

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Have you always wanted to record you own songs? Do you want to record a cover song from your favorite artist? Well this might be the time for you to take your song from the guitar onto the recording tracks and bring it to life so you can share your creativity with the world.

Recording songs is a beautiful and inspiring part of being a musician. There is so much to learn from it and it’s such an enjoyable and fulfilling process. You are now able to sit in the producer’s chair and share your music with just one click away. How great is that?

Do you first need help writing a song check out Why and How to Write Songs on Guitar – Complete Guide!

Prepare

Before you start recording your song make sure you can play (and sing) your song from start to finish. Practice your song as much as you can, so you are ready when you hit that record button.

It’s not necessary to have every detail of the song figured out yet, but the more prepared you are, the easier the recording process will be.

You can also practice your song with a metronome beforehand so when it’s time to record you are used to the feel of a click track (more on that later). A good practice of the song also makes the edit process much easier.

Equipment

To record your song you need to have a couple of things:

• A fast computer/laptop
• Audio interface
• DAW
• Microphone
• Popfilter
• Studio monitors

Microphones can range from $100 dollars to thousands of dollars, but with today’s budget microphones you can get really good high quality recordings.

The same goes for budget audio interfaces. For 200 dollars you can get a high quality budget audio interface that comes with a DAW and all kinds of instrument and FX plugins. Check out in the post below for high quality affordable equipment and plugin recommendations.

DAW

DAW stands for Digital Audio Workstation. This is the recording software you are going to use on your computer. Mac users can use Garageband (free) or buy LogicPro to takes things a step further. A lot of professional musicians use LogicPro (Mac only) to write and create their music.

Windows users (and Mac) can download Ardour (free), buy the really affordable Cockos Reaper or go for more popular DAW’s like Cubase, Image-Line’s FL Studio and Ableton Live.

And then there is Avid Protools which is the industry-standard recording and post-production software.

Create a Guide Track

First you want to create a click track that you can follow and play along with. The click track determines the tempo for the song. Take some time to play along with the click track and set the right tempo for the song.

Using a click track makes sure all the instruments are following the same tempo and stay on beat, so they can be edit later on in the process.

Instead of a click track you can also use a drumloop. A click track can sometimes feel a bit rigid to play along with, so a drumloop solves that problem.

You can also create a scratch track and record instruments as a guide for other instrument to play or sing along with. For example, you might want to play a quick guitar guide track for the bass player to support his recording session. You can always overdub this guitar part later to record a good track and delete the old one.

Recording Rhythm Tracks

Once your guide track is set and ready you can start recording the basis for your track. Normally you first start with the rhythm tracks consisting of drums, bass and guitar.

You can record real live drums at home if you have a drumkit. If you don’t have that luxury you can use drum loops or program drums yourself which is also the easiest way. Advanced technology has made the quality of sampled instruments really good, so it’s no problem to get high quality drum kits, loops and drum elements for your song.

Overdubbing

Once you have the drums, guitar and bass ready you can start overdubbing by layering sounds on top of the original ones, adding extra guitars (electric, acoustic, 12 string, different brands and amplifiers) and guitar parts (rhythm, fingerpicking, riffs and solos) keys, synths, vocal harmonies, etc.

In the music production process most of the time is spent in the overdubbing stage where a lot of creativity, fun and experimentation is going on.

Arranging

Arranging a song can be challenging but you can make a song as simple and complicated as you want it to be. If you’re just starting out keep things as simple as possible.

Learn from the masters. Put on your favorite songs and carefully listen to the song arrangements, vocal harmonies, effects and production. Listen to each individual instrument and how it falls into the musical landscape of the song. Learn and listen as much as you can.

Finding Musicians

If you dare to take on the challenge you can record the whole song yourself, programming drums, recording the guitar, bass and piano tracks or you can find musicians from your area who can help you out.

If you don’t know any musicians or you lack the skills to do it yourself you can also find musicians online and collaborate or hire a professional musician who’ll record the track at a reasonable price.

Finding Instruments

If you are doing most of the recording yourself you want to have great drum, bass and keys sounds. Most DAWs already have great build-in instrument plugins you can choose from but if you want to step up your game you can check out some of the recommendations below in the post.

Editing

You want to edit each instrument track right after recording, so the next instrument you record will fit and match perfectly. First compare your duplicate tracks and pick the best recording for the song.

Fix any timing issues. You can do this manually or with use of a time-stretching plugin.

Clean up the recording track by cutting out all kinds of unwelcoming buzz, hum, or hiss noises between audio sections.

Mixing

Mixing can go two ways. You can learn to mix the song yourself or you can hire a professional to mix your tracks for you. Hiring a professional engineer with years of experience who uses high quality equipment can really make the song stand out and lift it to a much higher level. If you do hire a professional it’s important the engineer understands your vision for the song.

You can also learn to mix yourself which is a skill an art that takes a lot of practice and time to learn. You also need the appropriate equipment or mixing plugins to get the right results. If you just want a nice song and not for commercial use you can learn a lot by yourself and mixing can be great fun.

For mixing you need at least grasp the basics of mixing like level, panning, dynamics processing, EQ, and time-based effects.

Mastering

After the song is mixed and exported to a single stereo audio file there’s the final stage of processing we call mastering. Here you enhance the overall track through additional compression, EQ, tape and tube saturators, limiters, and other signal processors. Again, you can learn to do this yourself or outsource it to a professional. If recording remains your hobby and getting your song on the radio is not your priority you can skip the mastering and enjoy your final mix instead.

Sharing and Promoting Your Song

Once your song is finished you can upload it to online streaming platforms like Spotify, AppleMusic, Soundcloud and Youtube. You can use a website like Distrokid to make life easier for you and manage all these platforms in one place. You can then promote your songs via Social Media or build your own website and share your music with your friends and the rest of the world.

Action

Setting up your own home studio might sound a big step, but it’s easier than you think. Just take it one step at a time. You probably already have a computer, so you can start with a DAW, a small interface, a microphone, monitors or headphones and you can start making music. Along the way you can expand your setup anyway you like.

Have fun creating music!

High Quality Affordable Equipment:

Note: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Large Condensator Microphones:
Audio Technica AT2020
Rode NT1-A
Blue Microphones Bluebird
sE Electronics 2200a II
AKG C214

Audio interfaces:
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
Presonus Studio 24c
Audient iD4 MkII
Steinberg UR22C
IK Multimedia iRig HD 2

Studio monitors:
KRK Rokit RP7 G4
Genelec 8010A
IK Multimedia iLoud MTM
Mackie XR624
Adam Audio T5V

Head phones:
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Sennheiser HD 206
Sennheiser HD 25
Sony MDR-7506
Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro

Popfilter:
Nady MPF-6
ASFSS6-GB Dual-Screen
Stedman Proscreen XL Popfilter
Avantone PS-1 PRO-SHIELD
Blue THEPOP Universal pop filter

VST Instrument plugins:
Specatrasonics Trillian (bass guitars)
Toontrack EZdrummer (drumloops)
Spectrasonics Keyscap (pianos and keyboards)
Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2 (synthesizer)
FXpansion Geist 2 (drummachine)
Vienna Symphonic Library (strings)

FX plugins:
Klanghelm MJUC (Compressor)
DMG Audio Limitless (Limiter)
FabFilter Pro-Q 3 (Equalizer)
Audio Ease Altiverb 7 (Reverb)

Why would you want to write a song?

Songwriting is both an art and a craft where you can express your musical creativity, your heart and soul into the ultimate form of a song.

It’s a great learning process for guitar players and all musicians. You’ll discover music on so many new levels and learn to think differently on how to approach your instrument. When you write your own songs you will also learn to transcribe songs faster, and understand and play music in a more proficient way.

I’ve got a lot of guitar students who started writing their own songs and many of them were surprised with how much they enjoyed it and found they could actually write a song. Try it and you might find yourself on a new path you never expected. There is only something to win here.

How to write a song

There are many ways to approach songwriting. You can write a personal story and sing about the struggles and challenges you go through in life. The side effect is highly therapeutic. Many artists do this.

You can also write in a narrative style and bring your own concepts and characters to life through your lyrics. Think about the message you want to get across.

To learn a certain style of songwriting study the professionals. Listen and read the lyrics of your favorite artists, learn how they approach their song writing and convey their stories. Watch interviews on Youtube on their songwriting process. The same goes for the use of chords, chord progressions, melody, rhythm playing, and other musical arrangements. Study, analyze, hear and feel them.

Song Structure

For writing a song you can use different components like an intro, verse, chorus, bridge, instrumental solo and outro. These components or sections are then repeated in some way. The most common forms are:

ABAB : Verse – Chorus – Verse – Chorus
AABA: Verse – Verse – Chorus – Verse
ABABCB: Verse – Chorus – Verse – Chorus – Bridge – Chorus

Around these sections you can create an intro, a guitar solo or an outro.

Tip: Listen to your favorite song writers and figure out what song structure they use and which ones you prefer.

Hook

You can also had a hook to your song. A hook is a catchy repeating element of the song. It can be a melodic phrase, a lyrical phrase, a cool lick or riff in the song that is appealing to the listener’s ear. It’s that thing that stands out, sticks with you and keeps ringing in your head all day long after listening to a song. See if you can find a captivating and memorable component to add to your song.

Rhyming Schemes

For rhyming schemes we can also use certain formulas. Most verses and chorus are made up of four lines where these lines have to rhyme in some fashion. Here are some of the most common rhyming structures:

AABB: The first and second line rhyme, and the third and fourth line rhyme.
ABAB: The first and third line rhyme, and the second and fourth line rhyme.
AAAA: All the lines rhyme.
XAXA: The first and third line don’t have to rhyme, the second and fourth line are forming a rhyme.
AXAA: The second line doesn’t have to rhyme and the others do.
AAXA: The third line doesn’t rhyme and the first, second and fourth line rhyme.
AAAX: The first, second and third line rhyme and the fourth doesn’t.

Tip: Listen to your favorite songs and descipher their rhyming schemes.

The order of song writing

There’s no rule on how to start your song. You can start with a nice chord progression and write the lyrics and melody afterward. If you choose that approach make sure the lyrics and melody match with the sound of your chord progression.

You can also write the lyrics, chords and melody all simultaneously in the moment of creating. The third way is to write the complete lyrics first and then later add the chords and vocal melody. You can always adjust the lyrics a bit later to fit the melody and chord structure.

There are many song writers and artists who have created beautiful songs using all three methods, so don’t worry about what to choose. Experiment with different methods and see what suits you best.

Chords and Chord Progressions

If you start writing a song with a chord progression you can use popular and natural sounding chord progressions like the I – IV – V or the I – VI – IV – V that are used in many songs. This might be a good choice if you just start out writing songs. In the end the vocal melody line determines how a song differentiate itself from the other songs.

You can also experiment, which is the most fun, and let your ear decide where the chords and the chord progression are heading. What chords and vibe feel good and match with the lyrics. Be aware of the story while you’re creating the music around it.

Ask yourself in what key you want to write the song. Which key suits best with your vocal range or with the feel and mood of the song. Try your song starting with a G chord, C chord or an E chord. This is a matter of experimenting.

You can also think of writing a song in a major key, C major for example (which expresses a more happy, feel good sound) or in a minor key, Am for example (which gives a more melancholic, sorrowful or sad feel to it).

Learning curve

All good things come with practice. Song writing is a skill you need to develop like all other things. You will write shitty songs in the beginning and that’s okay. Enjoy the creative side, the learning process, and somewhere along the way you will start writing better, more confidently and good songs start to happen. Be patient.

Get out of your own way

When you get stuck during the writing of a song try to get out of your own way. You’re probably trying too hard. You might want to achieve a certain sound or melody that doesn’t present itself at that moment. Take a break for a few minutes or an hour (leave the room or go for a walk) or just go with the melody that does present itself. You are the only one who gets in the way of the flow. Get out of your own head and just let it be what it wants to be. Simplicity goes a long way.

Break the rules

Regardless of all the tips, techniques and knowledge of how to write a song there are really no rules when it comes to writing your song. You don’t have to write in a poetic way, sounding sophisticated, narrative style, or writing similar to any kind of songwriter whatsoever.

If we do that we all just sound alike. There are tons of bands and artists who broke the rules of writing and became famous because of it. Just write whatever your mind and heart wants to put out there. You want to write like the person you are, not like somebody else.

When Inspiration Strikes

Bring a notepad and voicerecorder everywhere you go and write down ideas during the day. Make a habit out of it. You can also use your phone for this. There are tons of apps to help you write down ideas (See “Writing tools” below). You might see things, people and situations down the street that give you inspiration. Once you become aware of your surroundings everything becomes an ideas for a song.

Writing Tools

Here are some tools to make the process of writing easier and more efficient. Try to use the Rhymezone as a last resort. Let your mind wander first, think about how to tell it differently, then empty your mind by stepping back from the story, go do something else for a minute, and the rhyme will usually present itself without having to look for it online.

Rhymezone.com
If you need help finding a word to rhyme just type in the word on their website and you get all the possible rhymes you need.

Powerthesaurus.org
Powerthesaurus gives you alternative words with a similar meaning for the word you have in mind. Sometimes you just need another word to describe what you want to convey.

Simplenote.com
If inspiration strikes you want to write down your lyrics, a note app is a perfect tool for this. I find Simplenote really great because it is plain and simple and you can use it as an app (Android & iOS) on your phone or log in on their website and use the notepad on your laptop/desktop. They are all synchronized.

Voice recorder and audio editor
This is my favorite go-to recorder app to record guitar ideas and vocal melodies. It’s only available for iPhone. Of course you can search “voice recorder” on Google Play and you will find similar apps.

36 Impeccable Ways to Overcome Songwriters Block
If you’re stuck or need a boost this post has 33 tips to get your songwriting rolling.

Jooble.org
Ask help from an advanced guitar teacher in your area how to write songs.

What’s Next?

Once you’ve written a song you can record it with music recording software like Garage band (Free, only for Mac), Audacity (Free, for Windows) or Reaper (for Windows, affordable and professional recording software), or you can go with recording software with a well known reputation like Logic Pro, Cubase and Ableton Live. Recording software like the above allow to create multiple audio tracks to record your guitar and voice, but also add keys, drums, bass and whatever you like to make it a complete song. It’s a great addition to songwriting and you’re moving to music production which is a whole new universe on its own.

You can also perform your song before friends and family. Enjoy the compliments but also learn from their constructive criticism. It’s part of the deal.

Find a fellow musician or start a band to play your songs with. It’s the best feeling ever!

Have a good time

The most important thing in this process is having fun. Realize you are learning a great musician skill here. Appreciate the learning curve. Step back when you need to. Don’t be too hard on yourself and let go of perfectionism. You can always edit later. All writers do.

If you have inspiration go for it, if you’re being challenged just write one or two lines a day. Whatever comes up. Consistency is key. Take small steps each day, hone your craft and you’ll learn the art of songwriting.

It’s all about having a good time from the beginning to the end of the song. Create a mindset and environment for yourself to write in a way that you enjoy every step of the process.

Start writing your song!

Every now and then I watch a good music documentary or movie to enjoy the incredible stories behind the master guitar players and legendary bands.

The struggles, hardship and passion for playing is really inspiring and insightful for anyone who is a student of the guitar. Today we got a list for you with some of the best music documentaries. Witness the turbulent and expressive lives of these musicians. Follow their love for music, their eagerness, perseverance and lessons learned throughout their journey.

All the guitar players and songwriters faced their own challenges that led to the extraordinary musicians that they have ultimately become. A true pleasure to watch each and everyone of them. Pick your favorites from the list and enjoy.

Have a great one!

What are the Best Documentaries for Guitar Players?

Stevie Ray Vaughan – Rise Of A Texas Bluesman – 2014 (Youtube)
A docu on American musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer Stevie Ray Vaughan, best known as the guitarist and frontman of the blues rock band Double Trouble. He is considered to be one of the most iconic and influential musicians in the history of blues music, and one of the greatest guitarists of all time.

Acoustic Uprising (Youtube)
Acoustic Uprising tells the definitive story of Modern Acoustic Guitar, featuring interviews with world class FingerStyle guitarists from around the world, including Tommy Emmanuel, Kaki King, Newton Faulkner, Sungha Jung, Andy McKee and many more. These artists are renowned for their virtuosity on the ubiquitous acoustic guitar, taking the humble instrument to new heights of “astounding virtuosity”.

Keith Richards – Under influence (Netflix)
Under the Influence gives fans unparalleled access to one of the world’s greatest rock stars and the people and sounds that inspired rock ‘n’ roll legend Keith Richards.

Jimi Hendrix – By Those Who Knew Him Best (Youtube)
Jimi Hendrix is unquestionably the greatest guitarist to have emerged during the rock era. This documentary contains exclusive interviews with his closest friends, associates and fellow musicians, which finally reveals what was behind the greatest musical talent of our time.

Eric Clapton – Standing At The Crossroads Documentary (Youtube)
In this documentary feature Eric Clapton is interviewed in depth with contributions from Keith Richards, John Mayall, The Yardbirds, Jack Bruce and many more. It is THE definitive Clapton biography.

Paco de Lucia Documentary (Youtube)
A beautiful portrait of Paco de Lucia. A Spanish virtuoso flamenco guitarist, composer, and record producer. A leading proponent of the new flamenco style, he was one of the first flamenco guitarists to branch into classical and jazz.

Guitar – A documentary – 1991 (Youtube)
A U.K. video documentary about the guitar. Features David Gilmour and his 0001 Stratocaster. Also includes Chet Atkins, Paul Atkinson, Jennifer Batten, Lindsey Buckingham, Steve Cropper, Al DiMeola, Tony Iommi, Eric Johnson, B.B. King, Mark Knopfler, Steve Lukather, Hank Marvin, Brian May, Les Paul, Joe Satriani, Brian Setzer, Stephen Stills, Steve Vai, Joe Walsh, and more.

The Eagles – History of the Eagles (Amazon prime)
History of the Eagles is a 2013 two-part authorize documentary about the career of the American iconic rock group the Eagles.

Robert Johnson – Devil at the crossroads – (Netflix)
Cloaked in mystery, bluesman Robert Johnson left his mark on American music. Now family, critics and famous fans look for the real man behind the music.

Once – Glenn Hansard and Markéta Irglová – Movie (Youtube)
Once is a 2007 Irish musical romance film written and directed by John Carney. The film stars Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová as two struggling musicians in Dublin, Ireland.

B.B. King – Legends documentary (Youtube)
The life of blues legend B.B. King. The untold true American story of an orphan boy from the heart of the Mississippi Delta who rose to music stardom around the world and inspired a generation of fans against all odds.

Joe Satriani in Reel Satriani (Youtube)
Documentary of guitarist Joe Satriani recording his seventh album (from 1995). Bassist Nathan East. Drummer Manu Katche. Produced by Glyn Johns.

Chet Atkins, a Life in Music (Youtube)
A really interesting documentary about this legendary guitar player and his influence in country music. Features a lot of guitar playing from Chet.

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Funky Monks (Youtube)
Funky Monks is the title of a 1992 documentary (also the title of a song from the 1991 album Blood Sugar Sex Magik) about the rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers and guitar player John Frusciante and the recording of their highly successful 1991 Warner Bros. debut Blood Sugar Sex Magik. The album was produced by Rick Rubin and recorded in The Mansion

John Mayer – Someday I’ll Fly (Youtube)
Music Documentary on John Mayer: Someday I’ll Fly chronicles the musical evolution of one of the most influential solo artists of his generation. Featuring rare demos, interviews and live performances; it is told in it’s entirety from Mayer’s perspective.

Coldplay – A head full of dreams – New documentary (Amazon prime)
Long term collaborator Mat Whitecross blends spectacular live performances with exclusive band interviews and a huge array of previsouly unseen archive footage to produce “a Head full of dreams” – The definitive story of the world’s biggest band.

Django Reinhardt documentary (Youtube)
A documentary about Django Reinhardt with some brilliant guitarists who are keeping his jazz style alive.

John Williams – Classical Guitar Player (Youtube)
The celebrated documentary on John Williams, his life, his friendship and long association with Greg Smallman, his views on Segovia, his own teaching, the repertoire and how he defines musicality and much more.

Joe Bonamassa – Bloodline Documentary (Youtube)
This 1994 special feature on 16-year-old Joe Bonamassa was first aired on Channel 4 London public television and also includes commentary from B.B. King, Danny Gatton, and members from Joe’s former band Bloodline.

George Harrison – Living In The Material World (Amazon prime)
A 2011 documentary film directed by Martin Scorsese, based on the life of The Beatles’ George Harrison.

Wes Montgomery – The Life and Music Of Wes Montgomery (Youtube)
The audio commentary by The Great Jazz Singer Nancy Wilson is produced and brought to us by NPR Jazz Profiles. The graphics and short videos throughout the documentary are edited by your’s truely. Stay tuned for this wonderful profile of the Genius that was Wes Montgomery!

Queen – Days of Our Lives Documentary (Youtube)
The life and times of the rock band Queen and Brian May – told in two parts covering in part one the 1970’s and in part two the 1980’s and beyond.

It might get loud – Jimi Page, The Edge and Jack White (Youtube)
A 2008 American documentary film by filmmaker Davis Guggenheim. It explores the careers and musical styles of prominent rock guitarists Jimmy Page, the Edge, and Jack White.

Do you know a great guitar music documentary? Please share it in the comments. I appreciate it.