Playing a classic 90s song on the guitar is one of life’s simple pleasures – strumming along to your favorite tunes and sharing them with friends. Not only are these songs great for jam sessions, but they can also be an excellent way to learn the basics of playing guitar. This blog post will present a list of simple guitar songs from the 90s that you can begin learning immediately. With just a few chords and basic tips under your belt, you’ll be ready to enjoy re-living the best era ever! So pick up that axe and let’s dive into some awesome music from one of our favorite decades.
Easy 90s Guitar Songs
01 – Smells like teen spirit – Nirvana
This classic grunge track is easy to learn for guitarists of any level. All you need to do is play the four chords (E, A, D and G) and strum along with the song. The iconic riff is also simple to master and makes this one an essential 90s track on your playlist!
02 – Creep – Radiohead
An iconic 1990s song, “Creep” by Radiohead is a great choice for beginner guitarists. It features simple and repetitive chord progressions that are easy to learn and play. The melody is also quite repetitive, making it easy to remember. Additionally, the strumming pattern isn’t too complex either, so you can master it in no time. All of these elements make “Creep” a fantastic song for beginners looking to practice their skills on the guitar. [1]
03 – Alive – Pearl Jam
Another iconic song from the 90s, “Alive” by Pearl Jam is a great choice for beginner guitarists. The chord progressions are simple and repetitive, making them easy to learn and play. Additionally, the melody is also quite catchy, so you can easily remember it while playing.
04 – No rain – Blind Melon
This is a classic 90s rock song from Blind Melon. It features an easy-to-learn guitar riff that’ll be sure to impress your friends. No Rain is a perfect example of the grunge and alternative music that helped define the era. With its catchy chorus and simple chords, it’s also one of the most accessible songs on this list. Give it a go for an unforgettable performance!
05 – Black hole sun – Soundgarden
This is one of the most iconic songs of the 90s and it’s an absolute classic. Black Hole Sun is from Soundgarden’s breakthrough album Superunknown. It features a memorable guitar riff that will have your audience singing along in no time. Plus, there are some great extended chords to show off your skills on this track!
06 – Wonderwall – Oasis
One of the most iconic songs from the 90s, Wonderwall by Oasis has been covered countless times since its release in 1995. It’s a beloved classic that is easily recognizable even to those who don’t consider themselves guitar enthusiasts. The song features a simple, but catchy riff that can be picked up fairly easily with just a few practice sessions. Its basic chords and structure make it an ideal choice for beginners looking to learn their first 90s guitar song. Whether you’re playing on your own or with friends, learning this classic will bring hours of enjoyment and plenty of nostalgia. Sing along while you strum away and enjoy one of the best rock songs ever written!
07 – Under the bridge – RHCP
What list of 90s guitar songs would be complete without the Red Hot Chili Peppers? Under the Bridge is one of their most iconic tunes and features a fairly easy guitar riff that will have you strumming along in no time. It was released in 1992, but its popularity has endured for decades since then. The song makes use of some basic chords like G and D minor during the verses, followed by more complex ones like B flat and F major during the chorus. Even if you’re not a huge RHCP fan, this is still an awesome tune to learn on guitar! [2]
08 – Interstate lovesong – Stone temple pilots
Stone Temple Pilots had a string of hits in the early 90s and Interstate Love Song was one of their most popular songs. The track has straightforward chords and an infectious chorus that makes it ideal for playing along to on the guitar. It’s not overly challenging, but there are enough interesting licks to make it enjoyable. The song is mostly played in open E tuning (E-B-E-G♯-B-E) which adds depth to the sound of the song when strummed with a pick. Whether you’re just starting out or a veteran guitarist, this is definitely one classic 90s rock tune that should be part of your repertoire.
09 – What’s up – For non blondes
This is one of the most iconic and recognizable songs from the 90s. Written by Linda Perry, “What’s Up?” was an international hit for 4 Non Blondes in 1993. It’s notable for its driving rhythm guitar part and bluesy lead licks that make it a great choice for any guitarist looking to add some classic 90s flair to their playing. The song is mostly played in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) but you can also play it in open G tuning (D-G-D-G-B♭-D) if you want to capture that signature distorted sound.
10 – Cannonball – The Breeders
Cannonball by The Breeders is an excellent example of 90s guitar music, and it’s still played today. It features a simple yet catchy riff and some standard power chords to get the song going. Additionally, the lead vocal line gives it an extra little bit of flair that makes this song special. This one is great for any level guitarist to learn as well!
11 – Everlong – Foo Fighters
Everlong by the Foo Fighters is another great 90s guitar song. It has a slightly harder riff and solo that will keep you busy when playing it as well as an uplifting bridge to make sure it stays interesting. This one is perfect for any guitarist looking for a challenge!
12 – Losing my religion – REM
This song is instantly recognizable as a 90s classic, with its iconic fingerpicking intro. The song almost sounds like it could be a hymn due to its subtle but powerful vocal melody and production. Lyrically, the song follows themes of regret and loss that are typical of REM’s work. For guitarists, the fingerpicking intro provides an accessible challenge and a great chance to practice those skills. This track makes for a great performance piece or just for strumming along in the bedroom.
13 – Lithium – Nirvana
Released as the third single from their seminal ‘Nevermind’ album, ‘Lithium’ has become one of Nirvana’s most iconic songs. Lyrically, the song follows themes of mental health and features some gloriously dark imagery. Musically, it starts off with a simple guitar riff that builds and builds until Kurt Cobain’s unmistakable croon takes centre stage. The verses feature some haunting chord progressions which open up into a simplistic chorus that really allows the vocals to shine through. For guitarists, this is an excellent track to get stuck in to as it provides plenty of opportunities for improvisation. [3]
14 – Song 2 – Blur
This song will surely bring you back to the nineties with its iconic “woo-hoo!” chorus. It was Blur’s second single from their 1997 album, Blur, and it quickly became a worldwide hit. The simple chords make this song easy to play on guitar – all you need is some power chords and palm mute for that signature distorted sound. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to rock out to Song 2 in no time!
15 – Jeremy – Pearl Jam
One of Pearl Jam’s most recognizable songs, Jeremy is a great option for those just starting out on guitar. The chords are rather simple but the trickiest part is getting the timing right. If you practice it enough, you’ll be able to master this song and show off your skills at any gathering!
16 – Bittersweet symphonie – The Verve
The Verve’s signature track, Bittersweet Symphony, is an iconic 90s rock anthem. With its driving beat and melancholic melody, the song tells a story of bittersweet obstinacy. Lead singer Richard Ashcroft’s powerful vocals are backed by a chorus of strings that give the song its unique sound. The use of samplers and synthesizers in the production adds a modern edge to the classic-sounding track—and makes it one of the best easy 90s guitar songs to learn. It’s not overly complicated but still sounds great when played with just a guitar and some effects pedals!
17 – Plush – Stone temple pilots
Stone Temple Pilots’ 1993 hit, ‘Plush’ is a great song to learn on guitar. The riff is easy to play and the sound it creates is instantly recognizable. Frontman Scott Weiland brings an air of tension and drama to the track with his passionate delivery of the lyrics—the perfect accompaniment for this 90s classic. With its heavy guitars and thoughtful lyrics, ‘Plush’ is one of those songs that never gets old. It’s also worth checking out the band’s acoustic version—a stripped-down take on the song which highlights its simple beauty. Once you’ve learned it on guitar, give it a try!
18 – You oughta know – Alanis Morissette
This iconic song from Alanis Morissette’s 1995 album Jagged Little Pill is one of the most recognizable songs of the 1990s. It has a memorable riff that you can easily learn to play on guitar and is sure to be a hit with any crowd. The raw emotion and angst in her voice makes it an unforgettable classic. With its grungy, distorted guitars, this song will bring back all kinds of nostalgia for fans who grew up in the 90s and beyond.
19 – Sabotage – Beastie Boys
The Beastie Boys made history with this heavy, hard-hitting rock song from their 1994 album Ill Communication. It’s a great song to learn on guitar, as the main riff is simple but powerful and you can easily add your own flair and improvisation. The lyrics are just as memorable as the music, making it an all-time favorite of many 90s kids and beyond. [4]
20 – Breakfast at tiffanys – Deep Blue Something
This classic song from the 90s is one of those tunes that always get stuck in your head. Deep Blue Something released their most successful single “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” back in 1995, and it instantly became an anthem for the decade. With a catchy chorus and easy chords to follow along on guitar, this song is perfect for beginners who are looking to learn some classic 90s tunes. Plus, there’s nothing better than strumming out this iconic tune while hanging around with friends. So grab your guitar and start jamming away today!
21 – Epic – Faith No More
For those looking for a more hard-rocking song, Faith No More’s “Epic” should do the trick. Released in 1990, this Grammy Award nominated track is one of Faith No More’s most memorable songs. With its heavy riffs and easy chords to follow along on guitar, it’s perfect for any 90s fan looking to rock out with their friends. So grab your electric guitar and start shredding away today!
22 – Only Wanna Be With You – Hootie & The Blowfish
This gentle power ballad by Hootie & The Blowfish is a classic from the 90s, and one that anyone can master with practice. With just three chords and a few strums, you can recreate this beautiful acoustic tune. If you’re looking for an easy way to get into playing guitar music in the 90s, Only Wanna Be With You is an excellent place to start. It remains a popular song today and features prominently on many 1990s playlists. So grab your guitar and have some fun!
23 – Paranoid android – Radiohead
Radiohead’s 1997 single Paranoid Android is a complex yet accessible track that plays to the strengths of the guitar. With a range of chords, clever riffs and an impressive solo section, this song makes for great practice as you progress in your skill level. The structure of the song is relatively simple so it’s easy to master the basics and build up from there. Plus, it has one of those classic 90s melodies that never gets old! So grab your guitar and get practicing!
24 – Mysterious ways – U2
This classic U2 song from the early 90s is a great one for beginner guitarists. Its simple chord structure makes it an easy piece to learn and master on the guitar. The riff is iconic and catchy, making Mysterious Ways a great tune to play and show off your skills at parties or other events. Don’t forget about the solo; it’s relatively simple but can be tricky for some players – practice until you get it down! Mysterious Ways will always have people singing along, so make sure you know all the words too. With just a few chords and some dedication, you’ll be playing this cult favorite in no time. [5]
25 – The way – Fastball
This upbeat, infectious hit from Fastball is an excellent selection for guitar players of all skill levels. The opening riff is fast and catchy, and can be easily mastered by even the most novice guitarist. The chords are simple but effective, making this song a great one to practice on the guitar. The chorus builds into an epic rock anthem that will have audiences singing along in no time – perfect for parties or gatherings with friends! With just a few chords and some dedication you’ll soon feel like a rock star playing The Way.
26 – Shine – Collective Soul
This hit from 1994 is one of the most recognizable and memorable guitar songs of the 90s. The upbeat, catchy track bursts with a lively rhythm that makes it an ideal choice for beginners to start strumming away with ease. With only four chords—G major, D major, A minor and E minor—it’s easy to learn in just a few minutes. Its chorus is full of power chords that can be mastered relatively quickly too. There’s no better way to start mastering your guitar skills than by playing this classic song!
27 – Closing time – Semisonic
Released in 1998, this hit was a popular sing along at the time and is still one of the most beloved guitar songs of the 90s. With just three chords (G major, C major and D major), it’s easy to learn and perfect for beginners who are just starting out. The catchy melody makes it great fun to play along with as well! And once you master these chords, you’ll be able to tackle more complex songs like Semisonic’s other hits such as “Secret Smile” and “Chemistry.”
28 – Champagne supernova – Oasis
This classic track from 1995’s (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? the album is one of Oasis’ most beloved songs. With its poppy, upbeat tempo and catchy guitar riffs, it’s easy to see why this song became a fan favorite. While the pace and chords make for an easy play on the guitar, the intricate lyrics are sure to challenge even experienced players. This song is a must-have on any 90s playlist.
29 – I’m only happy when it rains – Garbage
This 1995 release from the alternative rock group Garbage was an instant hit. The song is driven by a simple guitar riff that is easy enough for beginners to learn with a bit of practice. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for something more on the mellow side. The song’s lyrical content about battling depression adds an extra layer of complexity perfect for experienced players. [6]
30 – Iris – Goo Goo Dolls
This song was the Goo Goo Dolls’ most successful single, and also one of the most recognizable 90’s guitar songs. It features a catchy, upbeat melody that is easy to learn on guitar. With its simple chords and sing-along chorus, this song is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Tips on Playing Guitar
Guitar playing is an enjoyable experience, and the best way to enjoy it is with a few simple tips. The following tips are designed to help make your time strumming the strings more enjoyable as you play easy 90s guitar songs:
- Learn basic chords first – Before you tackle those complex riffs, start with mastering some of the most popular chords such as A minor, D major, E major and G major. Understand how these chords work together in progressions to get familiar with how they sound together. This will give you a solid foundation on which to build upon when learning new music.
- Memorize scales – Get used to playing licks by memorizing different scales found in popular guitar licks. Different scales can be used to create unique sounds in a song and will help give you a better understanding of the music.
- Use a metronome – Keep time when practicing by using a metronome or drum machine as it will help with accuracy when playing songs. Having the correct timing is essential for playing easy 90s guitar tunes correctly, so make sure that you are comfortable counting out the beats accurately before moving onto more complex pieces.
- Learn some simple strumming patterns – Start by learning basic two and three chord progressions while focusing on keeping your strumming steady and consistent. Try to mix up strum patterns every few bars to keep things interesting and get creative with your own original strumming patterns.
- Study the songs you love – Listen to the songs that you want to learn and try to figure out what makes them unique. Pay attention to the chord progressions, melodies and techniques used by your favorite guitarists, as this will give you a better understanding of how they constructed their songs.
- Have fun with it – Don’t be afraid to experiment and have some fun while playing guitar! Practice makes perfect, so don’t get discouraged if something isn’t going quite right at first – just keep trying until you get it right! And remember: no matter what type of music you’re playing, enjoy yourself in the process! [7]
By following these tips, soon enough you’ll be playing easy 90s guitar songs like a pro. So go ahead, plug in that electric guitar and start shredding!
FAQ
What is a really easy song to play on the guitar?
One of the easiest songs to play on a guitar from the 90s is “Wonderwall” by Oasis. This song only requires basic chords and strumming patterns, making it one of the best beginner-level guitar songs from the era.
Are there any classic rock songs that are easy to learn?
Yes! One popular classic rock song that is relatively easy to learn for beginners is “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd. This song requires just a few simple power chords and some basic strumming patterns, so it’s perfect for those just starting out with guitar.
Are there any grunge songs I can learn on guitar?
Of course! One of the most well-known grunge songs that is relatively easy to learn on guitar is “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana. While the song may be slightly more challenging than others, it’s still considered a great beginner song due to its simple chords and chord progressions.
Are there any pop songs I can learn on guitar?
Absolutely! One of the most popular pop songs from the 90s that you can easily learn on guitar is “Walking On The Sun” by Smash Mouth. This cheerful tune requires just a few basic open chords and some simple strumming patterns, making it perfect for those just starting out with guitar.
What is the easiest guitar riff?
If you’re looking for a classic guitar riff that is easy to learn, look no further than Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit”. This iconic song has been covered countless times over the years and the simple three-chord pattern makes it incredibly accessible to beginner guitarists. Another great 90s classic is Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “Under The Bridge”, which uses just four chords and a repetitive strumming pattern that anyone can master quickly. For an even simpler option, try “I Wanna Be Sedated” by The Ramones. This track only requires two chords and one of the best known punk rock riffs of all time. Or consider Oasis’ hit single “Wonderwall”, which is just three chords and a memorable melody that will be stuck in your head after one listen. No matter what your skill level, there is an easy 90s guitar riff out there for you to learn. Dive into the classic rock of the decade and find something new to play!
What is an easy Coldplay song to play on guitar?
A great and easy Coldplay song to play on guitar is their hit “Yellow”. The song features just a few simple chords which make it ideal for beginner players. The chorus of the song is a very catchy three-chord progression that uses A – D – E minor, while the verse chords are G and Em. With some practice and patience you can easily learn to master this classic tune!
What is an easy Pink Floyd song to play on guitar?
Another great and easy Pink Floyd song to play on guitar is their hit “Wish You Were Here”. This classic tune features a simple four-chord progression that repeats throughout the song. The chords are A – B minor – E major – D, which makes it an ideal choice for beginner players. With some practice and patience you can easily learn to master this timeless track!
What is an easy Oasis song to play on guitar?
A great and easy Oasis song to play on guitar is their hit “Wonderwall”. This iconic track features just two simple chords, G and D major, making it perfect for those just starting out. The chorus of the song also has a catchy four-note riff that you can learn to play with some practice. With some time and patience, you’ll be able to master this classic in no time!
Useful Video: Classic 90’s guitar riffs that sound HARD to play (But are actually easy and sound Cool)
Conclusion
Easy 90s guitar songs are a great way to practice your guitar playing skills, while having fun. Whether you are looking for classic rock, alternative, pop or punk, the 90s has got something for everyone. With a wide variety of genres to choose from, you’ll never get bored. So grab your guitar and pick up an easy 90s song today! Who knows? You might even become a true rock star in no time!
References:
- https://takelessons.com/blog/easy-guitar-songs-for-beginners-the-90s-z01
- https://www.altpress.com/iconic-90s-songs-easy-to-learn-on-guitar/
- https://www.guitarhabits.com/50-of-the-best-alternative-guitar-songs-of-the-90s/
- https://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Guitar/Guitar_chords_cheat_sheet_of_popular_songs_from_the_1990s
- https://guitartopreview.com/90s-guitar-songs/
- https://www.ultimate-guitar.com/explore?decade[]=1990
- https://loudwire.com/songs-90s-recognize-first-few-notes/