I’ve always been amazed at how well country songs are represented on the guitar chords. There is just something about that twangy sound, the simple chord progressions, and the stories that are told that seem to strike a chord with me.
This post is my attempt to share some of my favorite easy country songs with you on the web. Hopefully, you’ll get some of the same inspiration from them that I’ve been getting for years.
Easy Country Songs on Guitar
I’ve grouped the best of easy Country Songs on Guitar as follows:
1. Roger Miller – King of the Road
Roger Miller is known for his largely country art. King Of The Road is a favorite of fans. How many country songs are known for their reggae cover? It’s another thing to carry to the back of your pocket for campfires or other singing events.
There are many ways to approach strumming, from a beginner guitarist to a more involved and almost flamenco intermediate player. It’s all about your ball. You can use this piece of country music by using some key if you want to keep it open guitar chords, or you can grab some simple bar chords and carry on.
2. Jason Aldean – The Truth
This song has two different progressions, one that repeats all the way through and another that only plays during the solo towards the song’s end. I’ve used notation to show you what chords are played, so there should be no guesswork.
3. Mark Chesnutt – It Sure Is Monday
It is a great song that you can have fun with, and it only uses 3 guitar chords, so if you know those three shapes, this song won’t be too hard to play. The video goes over a few strumming patterns and shows the guitar chords progression for the second half of the song.
4. Old Crow Medicine Show – Wagon Wheel
Wagon Wheel is one of the hot country songs that would benefit beginner guitarists. The song has been originally written by Bob Dylan and Old Crow Medicine’s Ketch Scor. Over the years, it’s been mentioned too many times to recall that Darius.
Rucker’s version caught the biggest commercial success. The most effective means are singing a melody over the top and then singing along in the chorus. It’s a good way to play with simple guitar chords and a basic strum you’ve probably listened to dozens of times before, but this is also a good song for novices.
5. George Strait – Famous Last Words of a Fool
It is a classic country song that contains two different chord progressions that you can learn and use in other songs (or at least I do). When learning any new song, it’s always good to find out what makes that song tick so you’ll have an idea of what to look for in other songs when you hear them.
5. Johnny Cash – A boy named Sue
Sue was written by Shel Silverstein and produced at Cash’s famous San Quentin State Prison concert. Cash usually allowed the song to go out of the script and entertain the audience with an adlib as far as songs for intermediate guitarists from this point of sale. AABCCB would not be as straightforward.
The guitar chords and drum repeat throughout the song with no modification making the album a ” set it and forget – country song for beginner guitarists. Cash considered the song a high point of every set he played as a brief relief from his more serious material. Country music is written by a famous American writer/satirist/humorist.
6. Trace Adkins – You’re Gonna Miss This
It is another classic country song from a huge artist. The guitar chords progression isn’t too hard to learn, and it’s got your typical country sound. There are just a few different patterns to learn to play through the song as far as the strumming goes. I do use notation to follow along, even if your chord shapes aren’t quite where they need to be.
7. Luke Bryan – Country Girl (Shake It for Me)
A country girl is a song that opens doors for a new guitarist. The chords and strumming pattern are fairly simple. Luke Bryan gives the song enough playful energy and catchy melodies to clarify that the song is rather tongue in cheek than straight-up sexist. I
t is difficult to say if you could get away with the lyrics of this song in 2021, but the lyrics are more tongue-in-cheek. Intro arpeggio is a style that you will continue using when you continue learning new country music. The best of fingerpicking opens the door to many more.
8. Tennessee Whiskey by Chris Stapleton
Tennessee Whiskey is about trying to make anyone worse when alcohol only stayed in their heart. The lyrics and the rhythm of Tennessee Whiskey together create a soulful but slow song for new guitarists. The major chords on the song are A and B-M. If you put a capo in 2nd fret, you can play it with G and Am.
Some parts of the song give you a strum hard, but the rhythm is steady to make the song sound without moving too fast. The song has country music inspired by R&B that contains a slow but soulful beat with a regular beat. The original version of the song was performed in 1981 by David Allan Coe.
9. Brantley Gilbert – Kick It in the Sticks
Like many of these songs, this one only has a couple of different chord progressions, which makes it significantly easier to memorize and play. There are a few different strumming patterns here, but they’re typically simple chord shapes that you should be able to handle at this point.
10. George Strait – Unwound
It is another classic country song with a pretty simple chord progression and uses open chords for the most part. Learning songs with open chords will help your country guitar playing sound even better!
11. Merle Travis – Sixteen tons
Sixteen Tons by Merle Travis was first published in 1946 and was inducted on the 2015 National Recording Register of the Library of Congress. The song is a bit more for advanced beginners as it has some more complex fingerpicking, and if you pick this one, you may also have an excellent platform for your fingers.
You might not remember all the words, but you know the tune, but you will find yourself surprised about how many you know. It’s one of those songs people rarely mention much anymore.
12. Luke Bryan – I Don’t Want This Night to End
This song was a huge hit for Luke Bryan, and it’s another tune that doesn’t require too much in the way of difficult chord shapes. Like most easy country songs, the rhythm and strumming are what will make this one stand out to you. As with many videos on easy guitar songs, I’ve notated the song for you to follow along, even if your chords aren’t up to par.
13. Trace Adkins – Just Fishin’
It is a classic country song that has been covered and played by many artists over the years, and it’s still fun and easy to play today. The chord progression doesn’t change throughout the song, so once you get the chord shapes down, you’ll be able to sing along and have fun with it.
14. Dolly Parton – Jolene
Dolly Parton easily learns Jolene. It’s a rudimentary strumming pattern and features three chords – Am, C, and G. The desperate emotional plea is fully musical infused with catchiness. For something that will challenge you, learn another Dolly classic coat of colors composed of five chords.
I’ll always love you has four chords which is a great way to test your talents of the hit song I’ll always love you. So you can try doing this pattern again.
15. Luke Bryan – Country Girl (Shake It for Me)
It is another popular Luke Bryan tune that should be broken up into chunks so that you can learn one section at a time instead of having to memorize everything all at once. The chord shapes aren’t too difficult to learn, but the strumming can catch people off guard when they first start playing this song. There is also a cool riff thrown in now and then, which you’ll want to make sure you pick up on.
16. Trace Adkins – Hot Mama
It is an easy country song that you can pick up and play without too much trouble. The chord shapes don’t change throughout the song, so once you get those down, there’s nothing else to it but to rock out (provided that your strumming is up to par). It might be one of those songs that you find yourself coming back to now and then when you’re in the mood for a little country love.
17. Trace Adkins – The High Cost of Living
It is another classic country tune that many artists have covered over the years. There are only four different chord shapes to learn, and they aren’t too difficult to master. Once you get through the song once and figure out the strumming pattern, though, you’ll be able to play this one over and over again.
18. Wheel of Old Crow Medicine Show
Bob Dylan and Ketch Secor wrote Wagon Wheel in 1973. The song is probably one of the most recognizable country songs of all time. The lyrics take you off into the country of the pines. The good thing is that this crowd-pleaser is easy to learn.
You don’t have to use any quick fingers, and it’s a steady strumming motion. The beginner can understand it quickly and easily. Chords: G, D Em, C The original had been a song that Dylan and Secor recorded during the 70s.
19. Craig Morgan – Little Bit of Life
While the video is a bit corny, this is another easy country song that doesn’t have you learning too many chords or strumming patterns. It’s just a matter of finding the right chord shape for each chord in the progression. Once you get it down, you’ll be able to play this classic country song whenever the mood strikes.
20. Jason Aldean – She’s Country
It is another simple chord progression with a few different strumming patterns throughout the song, which may trip you up if you’re not used to them yet. There is no chord bailing in this song, so you’ll want to make sure that your chord shapes are perfect. If not, you’ll end up messing up the chord progression and throwing off the song’s timing.
21. Hank Williams – Jambalaya
This easy country song is an even more perfect choice for new guitarists. It features only two guitar chords: G7 and C, and the slow, smooth strumming gives it a laid-back ambiance. Learning this Hank Williams country classical song is not a complicated song.
If you want to progress a little, you can then follow the more paced rendition of the tune from the Carpenters in another way to learn the more popular version of the tune by following the carpet band’s song.
23. Blake Shelton – Honky Tonk Badonkadonk
Blake Shelton has a ton of popular easy country songs, and this is one of them which you can learn and play quickly. The chord shapes are simple, and the strumming pattern isn’t difficult to pick up on either. Like many easy country songs, it’s all about playing through the progression and singing along with Blake Shelton as he croons his way through the lyrics.
24. Alison Krauss & Union Station – Whiskey Lullaby
It is a cover of the Brad Paisley song, and it’s a little grueling to play, even though you’ll only be learning two chords. It’s all about moving from chord shape to chord shape quickly while paying attention to the timing in the song. Once you get it down, though, you’ll be able to play a song that is pretty on par with the Brad Paisley version.
26. Johnny Cash – Ring of Fire
The Ring Of Fire by Johnny Cash is easy for beginners. The only change is the D chord, though you can just keep the finger with you. Bust it up with a campfire sing-along and see everyone scream at the deep roar of the chorus.
Guitar, the whole song is fairly straightforward. It has a very simple strum and uses two almost interchangeable chords as far as fingering (G and C). The only thing to do is to strum a simple G and C.
27. Trace Adkins – Good Ole Boy
It is a classic country tune, and all of Trace’s songs are fairly simple to learn, even though they don’t seem like it at first glance. The strumming pattern changes throughout the song, but once you get a feel for it and how it’s supposed to sound, you’ll be able to play this one from beginning to end. You might even find yourself singing along with the song now and then, especially after a few drinks at the bar.
28. John Denver – Take me Home Country Roads
Country Roads is perhaps the poster child of Country music. It has a simple strumming technique, and it’s fun to sing. There are four main chords: G, D, Em, and C. The lyrics are in one pattern of G-Em D-C-G, and the chorus is a. ‘GEM’ EMU MEME MUSIC GEM.
It’ll be a surefire hit around the campfire, so grab that guitar and learn it in no time. Learn the full version of the country classic “Country Roads” by John Denver.
29. Blackberry Smoke – Ain’t Much Left of Me
Another great country song that you can learn and play with little to no trouble, just like many of the other songs on this list. It’s all about moving from chord shape to chord shape quickly while paying attention to the timing in the song. Once you get it down, though, you’ll be able to play a song that is pretty on par with the original version.
30. Jackson Taylor & the Sinners – You’re Gonna Ruin My Bad Reputation
It is another classic country tune that you can learn and play quickly. It’s all about moving from chord shape to chord shape quickly while paying attention to the timing in the song. Once you get it down, though, you’ll be able to play a song that is pretty on par with the original version.
31. Hank Williams: “Jambalaya (On the Bayou)”
Jambalaya (on the bayou) was written and recorded by Hank Williams in 1952. The chords for this are just C and G, and its strumming is fairly basic, which you can learn quickly. The song has attained popularity throughout various music types and has been performed many times a year. Its chords are largely C- and lyric-based.
32. Craig Morgan – Little Bit of Life
It is another simple chord progression that won’t have you playing too many different chord shapes at once but will certainly test your ability to move from chord shape to chord shape quickly while still keeping time with the beat. If you can do that, though, then you’ll be able to play a song that is pretty on par with the original version.
33. Billy Currington – Must Be Doin’ Somethin’ Right
It is another simple country song without learning too many chords or different strumming patterns. It’s just a matter of finding the right chord shape for each chord in the progression, and you’ll be able to play this song whenever you want.
34. Johnny Cash – “Ring of Fire”
Johnny Cash has a touching tribute to his love marriage. It will be a great guitar beginner song as it only has three chords. Most new music writers find Johnny Cash songs easy to learn. If you want more music from him, then check out “I Walk the Line,” “Hurt,” and “A Boy Named Sue’s” Guitar Chords D, C, GD,
35. Andy Griggs – You Won’t Ever Be Lonely
It is another simple country tune without learning too many chords or different strumming patterns. It’s just a matter of finding the right chord shape for each chord in the progression, and you’ll be able to play this song whenever you want.
36. Dierks Bentley – What Was I Thinkin’
One of Dierks Bentley’s most famous songs, you might find yourself singing along with the lyrics even if you’ve never heard them before. It’s all about moving from chord shape to chord shape quickly while paying attention to the timing in the song. Once you get it down, though, you’ll be able to play a song that is pretty on par with the original version.
37. John Michael Montgomery – Be My Baby Tonight
This country tune isn’t too complicated, and you’ll only need to know two chords at most throughout the entire song. While some chord progressions change, you’ll learn the first two and be able to play the song from beginning to end without too much trouble.
38. Pat Green – Carry On
It is a country tune that sounds almost identical to any other country song you’ve ever heard before. It’s just a matter of finding the right chord shape for each chord in the progression, and you’ll be able to play this song whenever you want.
39. Waylon Jennings – I Ain’t Living Long Like This
Although this is a pretty long song, it’s still easy enough for beginners to learn if they take their time with it. The chord changes are very simple in this one and won’t have any trouble catching on quickly. You’ll be able to play a song that is pretty on par with the original version.
40. Kenny Chesney – Summertime
This country tune isn’t too complicated, and you’ll only need to know two chords at most throughout the entire song. While some chord progressions change, you’ll learn the first two and be able to play the song from beginning to end without too much trouble.
41. Tracy Lawrence – Paints Me Brown
It is another simple country tune that won’t have you learning too many chords or different strumming patterns. It’s just a matter of finding the right chord shape for each chord in the progression, and you’ll be able to play this song whenever you want.
42. Keith Urban – Tonight I want to Cry
It is another classic country tune that you can learn and play quickly. It’s all about moving from chord shape to chord shape quickly while paying attention to the timing in the song. Once you get it down, though, you’ll be able to play a song that is pretty on par with the original version.
43. BlackHawk – Goodbye Says It All
It is another simple country tune that won’t have you learning too many chords or different strumming patterns. It’s just a matter of finding the right chord shape for each chord in the progression, and you’ll be able to play this song whenever you want.
44. Billy Yates – Alcohol You Later
It is a country tune that sounds almost identical to any other country song you’ve ever heard before. It’s just a matter of finding the right chord shape for each chord in the progression, and you’ll be able to play this song whenever you want.
45. Keith Urban – I Told You So
Although this is a pretty long song, it’s still easy enough for beginners to learn if they take their time with it. The chord changes are very simple in this one and won’t have any trouble catching on quickly. You’ll be able to play a song that is pretty on par with the original version.
46. James Otto – Just Got Started Lovin’ You
This country tune isn’t too complicated, and you’ll only need to know two chords at most throughout the entire song. While some chord progressions change, you’ll learn the first two and be able to play the song from beginning to end without too much trouble.
47. Kenny Rogers – The Gambler
When you say nothing at all is a popular 1980 single by Kenny Rogers. In the same year, Kenny Roger won many Grammy. The song has some of the best chorus lines of country music.
The chord changes are tricky for beginners, but once you have that chord underneath your finger, you are ready to lead the crowd at the campfire in a singalong.
48. Chad Brock – Yes!<H2>
It is a country tune that sounds almost identical to any other country song you’ve ever heard before. It’s just a matter of finding the right chord shape for each chord in the progression, and you’ll be able to play this song whenever you want.
49. Garth Brooks – Ain’t Going Down (Til The Sun Comes Up)
It is another classic country tune that you can learn and play quickly. It’s all about moving from chord shape to chord shape quickly while paying attention to the timing in the song. Once you get it down, though, you’ll be able to play a song that is pretty on par with the original version.
50. Johnny Cash – I walk the line
I Walk The Line is the very first song you think of a country song. It has a very simple chord structure and can be played with a basic strumming pattern for absolute beginners. A playful intro line is provided for intermediate and advanced beginners, which gives you an easy way to study one note and play an off-beat rhythm.
The proper chords in verse offer another challenge to keep you coming back to this song for more. Cash wasn’t your typical country celebrity. His hard work under his musical genius is why he has become a legend enough for his biopic.
51. Achy, Breaky Heart by Billy Ray Cyrus
Break My Heart is a simple melody for all beginning guitar players. The major verse section and chorus are two simple chords, A and E, in continuous rotation. Even the simple Note runs are rather straightforward for a beginner.
Plus, the song is so well-known you can tuck the song into practically any situation and get a singing session, from a dinner table to a dinner party. My first guitar lesson – as a somewhat experienced player – involved a lesson with shaky hearts involved.
It doesn’t mean a country song at all, but anyone can say that it’s a simple country song.
52. Alabama – Dixieland Delight
It is another simple country tune that won’t have you struggling too much throughout the song. It will take a little bit of time to get it under your fingers and ready for the performance, but you’ll be able to play it without too much trouble.
The chord changes are very simple in this one and won’t have any trouble catching on quickly. You’ll be able to play a song that is pretty on par with the original version.
53. Lady Antebellum – Need You Now
This song is a little harder than most easy country songs on guitar, so if you don’t want to take any extra time learning this one, then it’s probably not worth your while. If you do have some time to spare and work on the chord progressions and changes, though, you’ll end up with a song that’s great to play for your friends and family.
54. A Little Less Conversation by Elvis Presley
It is one of the most famous country songs of all time, and it’s easy enough for a beginner and intermediate guitar players. The guitar part (if you can call it that) is very simple and doesn’t require much difficulty.
Elvis Presley made this number one on the charts, but it didn’t make it to the top of the country music charts because, well, it wasn’t a country song at all.
55. Roger Miller – King of the Road
Roger Miller is known for his largely country art. King Of The Road is a favorite of fans. How are many easy country songs on guitar known for their reggae cover? It’s another thing to carry to the back of your pocket for campfires or other singing events.
There are many ways to approach strumming, from a beginner to a more involved and almost flamenco intermediate player. It’s all about your ball. You can use this piece of music by using some key if you want to keep it open chords, or you can grab some simple bar chords and carry on.
What’s the easiest country song to learn on guitar?
The best easy country songs on guitar for beginner guitar players are the ones that have very simple chord progressions and aren’t too difficult to play. Any song with basic chords like C, G, Dm, Am, etc., will be easy for beginners to learn.
These songs can easily be turned into acoustic guitar versions just by playing the guitar part with some chords. Even the most basic song can be turned into a fun family event or dinner party singer by adding some strumming, open chords, and adding a tune to the lyrics.
Of course, there are plenty of other songs out there that are easy enough for beginner guitar players to learn on their own, but these are some of the best easy country songs on guitar for beginner guitar players. If you learn one of these songs, it will be easier to move on to more complicated songs in the future.
What are the three chords in country music?
There are many types of country music, from folk to traditional to modern and many in between. All types use simple chords, though, so it’s not a big deal that there aren’t any specific three things that every country song has in the industry.
Learning a simple country song is great for beginner guitar players because it’s easy enough for new players to pick up and learn, but it’s also a song that everyone will recognize and enjoy.
What is the easiest country song for guitar beginners?
Some of the best country songs for beginner guitar players are simply some of the most known songs in general. The Beatles, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Garth Brooks, Dolly Parton, Bob Dylan, Waylon Jennings are just a few people who have inspired millions of guitar players over the years.
Of course, there are thousands upon thousands of country songs out there, so it can be hard to choose something that’s both easy enough for beginners but popular enough for everyone else to enjoy. Some songs were made famous because of their lyrical content, while others became popular because of how they were played.
Conclusion
For many players, playing simple country songs is the best thing to introduce themselves to the genre and learn more about it.
There are a lot of great country songs out there for beginner guitar players with basic chord progressions and easy words to strum along to. By learning one of these songs, young musicians will be able to play a song that many people know and enjoy.