There’s plenty of amateur guitar players out there, most of whom could use a little more practice. Here at Goliath, we’ve collected some songs we feel are great introductory tunes to learn the next time you pick up your axe. Whether they’re great for practicing open chords, power chords or just plain picking, these songs should help get you started on your way to rock stardom. We made sure they weren’t too complex, because you’ve gotta walk before you run, folks!
10. Brain Stew – Green Day
Chords Used: G#, F#, F, E, D#
The quintessential song for power chord practice, Green Day’s “Brain Stew” (originally released on their 1996 album Insomniac) is a rocking tune that also lets you practice muting your strings, as that technique makes up the chorus/breakdown of the song. Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong is known for making extensive use of power chords (a punk tradition), especially in the band’s early work. While the song isn’t particularly complex, its slow, heavy rhythm is instantly recognizable and easy to practice, especially with a metronome (a recommended purchase or download for every amateur guitar player). When you’re practicing your power chords on this one, be sure to keep your ring finger flat against the bottom three strings in order to mute them; we can’t have them ringing out!