Whether you’re into blues, jazz or rock, the guitar is a versatile instrument that is fun to play. You don’t even need to read music to use the top 10 guitar tabs listed. Teach your fingers some basics and soon you’ll be able to improvise and go with the flow. For each song on this list, use the tab to show you how to play the tune.
1. Pentatonic Scales
If you want to be a lead and improvise, you have to learn pentatonic scales. Good improv works when the notes make sense and are connected, not random and discord. The best way to learn scales is to practice.
2. Jimi Hendrix “Purple Haze”
Purple Haze is probably Hendrix’s best-known song. It ranks high on the lists of greatest guitar songs ever. It showcases his innovative guitar playing. It’s one that should be in your repertoire.
3. Michael Jackson “Rock With You”
Michael Jackson dominated the pop singles chart in the 1980s, and this hit was one of the first of the decade. It was the fourth biggest single in 1980. It was also one of the last hits from the disco era. It’s a classic Jackson hit that is sure to please.
4. Nirvana “Smells Like Teen Spirit”
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” Is largely regarded as Nirvana’s biggest hit. It came from the album “Nevermind,” which is often considered to be when grunge went mainstream. The song is also noted as one of the hits that shaped rock and roll.
5. “Natural Notes”
Although many guitarists never learn to read music, it can really help you understand music better.
6. Kiss “Rock and Roll All Night”
If you’ve been to a Kiss concert since 1976, you’ve probably ended the night with this signature song. The original version doesn’t have the guitar solo, but many of the later versions do. It’s a fun song to know.
7. Stevie Ray Vaughan “Scuttle Buttin”
Vaughan is widely regarded as one of the most influential guitarists of the 1980s. Rolling Stone named him as the 12th greatest guitarist of all times. This instrumental is absolutely amazing.
8. Joe Pass “The Blue Side of Jazz”
Pass is a genius when it comes to jazz guitar. It’s an example of jazz blues in G. If you’re trying to learn jazz guitar, this song is complex but considered a classic.
9. Thin Lizzy “The Boys Are Back in Town”
Thin Lizzy owes their success to this song and 2 DJs in Kentucky who fell in love with it and played it over and over until other stations picked it up. The song basically sold the album “Jailbreak.” Today it’s a classic song that lists one of the greatest guitar tracks of all times.
10. James Taylor “You’ve Got a Friend”
Carole King first recorded this song, but James Taylor made it famous. The message of the song has universal appeal. Many other artists have recorded a version of it. It’s a classic that every guitarist should know for singing around campfires, at weddings or on stage.
