Best Songs to Play on Electric Guitar: A Striking Playlist for Enthusiasts

TL;DR: Rock out with these top electric guitar jams, guys! Our research shows Stairway to Heaven” (Led Zeppelin) as the ultimate classic, Back in Black” (AC/DC) for headbangers, Purple Haze” (Jimi Hendrix) for psychedelic vibes, and Sweet Child O' Mine” (Guns N' Roses) for a killer riff.

Plug in and let's shred! 🎸🤘

Best Songs to Play on Electric Guitar: A Striking Playlist for Enthusiasts

Put Your Electric Guitar Skills to the Test: Best Songs to Play on Electric Guitar

Songs to Play on Electric Guitar

So, you've finally decided to take your electric guitar skills to the next level. Or perhaps you're just looking for some new tunes to learn and master that will help you up your game.

Either way, you've come to the right place!

We've got a killer list of great electric guitar songs for you to play, ranging from easy-peasy riffs perfect for beginners, all the way up to face-melting solos fit for intermediate players.

In any case, we'll be covering various genres like rock, blues and metal.

So strap in, as we explore some classic tunes that will have your fingers flying on the fretboard while nailing down techniques like soloing and riffing.

By the way, I hope you're just as excited about exploring these tracks as I am about sharing them with you! Let's get started.

1. Boulevard of Broken Dreams by Green Day

Let’s start with a song that's great for beginner electric guitar players: Boulevard of Broken Dreams by Green Day.

This song starts off with a simple but catchy main riff in the intro and chorus that'll get stuck in your head (in a good way).

The chords are straightforward too – perfect if you're new to chugging along on those power chords!

2. Layla by Derek and the Dominos

Now that I think about it, we can't talk about electric guitar anthems without mentioning Layla by Derek and the Dominos.

A timeless classic featuring Eric Clapton's legendary layered electric guitars – this one is an absolute must-learn for any aspiring guitarist.

With its unforgettable opening riff and intricate solos throughout, this track might require more effort than our Green Day entry above but is totally worth it once mastered!

3. (Don't Fear) The Reaper by Blue Öyster Cult

In any case, let's move on to another classic: (Don't Fear) The Reaper by Blue Öyster Cult. This song is perfect if you're a fan of those clean, melodic riffs and solos that just scream “vintage rock.”

The main riff is highly recognizable and will have people nodding their heads in approval as soon as you start playing.

4. Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne

For those who like to dabble in the heavier side of things, Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne is another fantastic choice for beginner electric guitar players.

Featuring a memorable opening riff and a solid structure throughout, this song not only sounds impressive but will be easier than you think to learn!

5. More Than a Feeling by Boston

All things considered, More Than A Feeling by Boston is another classic rock hit that features an unforgettable guitar riff that is easy to learn – even for beginners!

Plus, the combination of clean and distorted tones offers some valuable opportunities to explore different effects and amp settings.

6. Monkey Wrench by Foo Fighters

Looking for something a bit more modern? Monkey Wrench by Foo Fighters offers up another catchy riff yet challenges intermediate guitar players with its upbeat tempo and power chord-heavy composition.

This one's definitely worth a spin if you want to expand your repertoire into the alt-rock realm.

7. Smoke on the Water by Deep Purple

Let's see…Smoke on the Water by Deep Purple – yep, we can't leave this one out!

Arguably one of the most famous riffs in music history, this classic track has been covered countless times but never loses its charm when played through an electric guitar cranked up with plenty of distortion.

8. Iron Man by Black Sabbath

You see, we couldn't possibly make this list without mentioning the likes of Iron Man by Black Sabbath.

This tune is instantly recognizable and will make you feel like a true rockstar as soon as you hit that opening power chord. With its slower tempo, Iron Man is perfect for intermediate players looking to master some classic metal riffs.

9. Sweet Child O' Mine by Guns N' Roses

Another unforgettable song on our list is Sweet Child O' Mine by Guns N' Roses.

With its iconic opening riff and soaring solos throughout, this song goes down in history as one of the most technically challenging but rewarding tracks for any electric guitarist to learn.

10. Back in Black by AC/DC

Last but not least, let's wrap it up with Back in Black by AC/DC – an epic anthem featuring a simple yet memorable riff that has become synonymous with the band itself!

This track is great for beginners looking to explore more hard-hitting rock tunes while still keeping things accessible and fun.

An Electric Mixdown!

An Electric Mixdown!

There you have it – ten amazing songs to play on your electric guitar that'll help you improve your technique, tone and overall skillset!

Now go pick up that guitar, plug into your amplifier, crank up the distortion and start rocking out! Let us know which songs you're loving (or struggling with) in the comments below, and happy shredding!

About Author

Arielle P

Arielle P

Songwriter | Music Producer | Engineer.

With a background in music production and a strong passion for education, Arielle is dedicated to helping emerging artists navigate the music industry. She has worked with a diverse range of artists, from indie rock bands to well-known hip-hop and grime artists. Arielle's unique approach to teaching focuses on empowering artists to take control of their brand, ensuring they retain creative ownership throughout their journey. In her free time, she enjoys experimenting with new sounds in her home studio and sharing her insights through music production tutorials and workshops.

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