Do you want to add some Elvis Presley songs to your repertoire? Look no further – learn these easy Elvis songs on guitar and start rocking the stage! Guitar can be a wonderfully expressive instrument, particularly when playing classic tunes by The King. This blog post will walk you through the basics of learning some of his best-loved numbers in just a few strums. After going through each song, you’ll be able to impress even the most ardent fans with renditions of “Can’t Help Falling In Love” and “Hound Dog” that capture all their foundational elements without breaking any strings. Get ready for those hips shaking: let’s get started learning some easy Elvis numbers on guitar!
Easy Elvis Songs on Guitar
1 Can’t Help Falling In Love
This iconic love song is one of Elvis Presley’s best-known tunes, and you can easily learn it on guitar. Begin with the fundamental chords of C, F, G7 and Am to unlock your ability to play this timeless ballad.
2 Jailhouse Rock
This hit from Elvis’ 1957 movie of the same name is a great combination of upbeat rock and roll and fun lyrics. Follow along to the original recording or learn how to play this song with just four chords: G, D, A, and Em. [1]
3 Suspicious Minds
Suspicious Minds is one of Elvis Presley’s most beloved songs and a great one to learn if you want to impress people with your guitar playing. The song follows a simple chord progression, so it’s an easy one to pick up. It starts off with an E5 chord and then goes into a B5, A5, and F#5 in the chorus. The verse has some more complex chords such as Gmaj7/E, but they are still fairly straightforward to play. Once you have mastered strumming these chords, you can move on to adding licks between them and making the song sound even better.
4 In The Ghetto
This is a classic song from Elvis, and it’s fun to play on guitar. It follows a basic chord progression of C, F, G and Am. Again you can start by strumming the chords in time before adding some extra licks between them as you become more confident with the song. The chorus has a slightly different sound as it uses a Bb chord instead of an F. This requires some practice but once you have nailed it, you are sure to impress your friends and family!
5 My Way
My Way is another classic Elvis song and you will be able to play it with ease on the guitar. It follows a simple chord progression of G, D, Am and C with some additional chords in the chorus such as Fm7/Bb. The lyrics are quite emotive so make sure to put some feeling into your playing when performing this one. Once you feel comfortable with the chords, you can start adding some fingerpicking licks or vibrato to really bring the song alive! [2]
6 Blue Suede Shoes
One of Elvis Presley’s most iconic songs, “Blue Suede Shoes” is a great one for beginning guitarists to learn. This rockabilly classic has a simple chord pattern and can be played with just an electric or acoustic guitar. The key to learning this song lies in getting the rhythm right – it should sound like a quick shuffle! The chords used are C, F, G7 and A7. To make the song even easier to play, you can omit the A7 chord completely. Have fun singing along as you strum your way through this classic!
7 It’s Now Or Never
Another classic by the King of Rock and Roll, “It’s Now or Never” can be played relatively easily on guitar. This song has a simple chord progression in the key of D major – D, G, A7 and Em. Since there are only four chords in the song, it’s easy to learn and memorize quickly. Additionally, if you want to make the song easier to play on guitar you can omit the A7 chord entirely! The strumming pattern is also fairly straightforward – down-up for each chord!
8 Return To Sender
From the movie Girls! Girls! Girls!, “Return to Sender” is a great song for beginning guitar players. This rock and roll classic has only three chords – A, D, E – making it easy to learn and play. For an extra challenge, you can add a fourth chord – G – but it’s not necessary if you just want to get the basics down.
9 Blue Christmas
Blue Christmas is a classic holiday song made famous by Elvis Presley. It’s also an easy guitar song for beginners to learn. All you need is a few basic chords and some practice! This simple version can be played with just four chords: G, D, A7, and E7. Start by strumming the G chord twice and then playing the other three in sequence. To finish up the chorus, end on the D chord. When it comes to the verse, start off with a G chord before switching between A7 and E7. You don’t have to worry too much about fancy picking or complex riffs here; just keep your fingers moving as smoothly as possible while keeping up with the rhythm. [3]
10 If I Can Dream
The second easy Elvis song on this list is If I Can Dream. This iconic track is a great choice for beginner guitarists for its slow-paced tempo and relatively simple chords. The main riff makes use of D, G, E minor, and A minor – all of which are fairly straightforward to play. When it comes to the chorus, you’ll need to switch between an F chord and a C chord. While the melody is quite repetitive throughout the song, try not to be discouraged!
11 Hound Dog
Hound Dog is another classic Elvis song that’s fairly easy to get the hang of on guitar. To begin, you’ll only need three chords: G, D7, and A7. The song follows a pattern of two strums of each chord before progressing onto the next. When it comes to the chorus, switch between E minor and B7 for a more intense sound. If you want to add some extra flair to your performance, try playing around with some blues-style licks during the instrumental section at the end.
12 A Little Less Conversation
If you’re looking for an easy Elvis song to learn on guitar, then “A Little Less Conversation” is a great choice. This catchy rock and roll classic was written by Mac Davis and recorded in 1968 by Elvis Presley. The song has since been covered many times over, but never quite as well as the original. It features a simple chord progression that is easy to play on guitar and makes it perfect for learning the basics of how to play an Elvis song on guitar. To start playing “A Little Less Conversation,” begin with an E7sus4 chord and strum twelve evenly spaced chords until you reach the chorus section. When the chorus hits, add in a Bb major 7th and a C minor 7th chord to your strumming pattern. This song is sure to have everyone singing along so get ready to rock n roll! [4]
13 Bridge Over Troubled Water
If you are looking for a more soulful Elvis song to learn on the guitar, “Bridge Over Troubled Water” is a great choice. This moving ballad was originally recorded by Simon and Garfunkel in 1970, but was covered by Elvis Presley with his own special touch later that same year. The song features a gentle chord progression including Em, Am7, Bm/A and G chords that can be easily played on guitar. Start off your version of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” with an intro featuring four Em chords. Then move into the verse section where you will strum eight evenly spaced chords until the chorus hits. When you reach the chorus add in two Cadd9 chords to your pattern and finish off with a D/F♯ and B7sus4. With this song, you are sure to wow your friends with Elvis’ smooth vocal delivery!
14 Always On My Mind
This classic Elvis song is not only a fan favorite, but also one of the most popular easy Elvis songs on guitar. Written by Wayne Carson Thompson and Mark James in 1972, this hit ballad has been covered countless times by different artists over the years. Thankfully, it’s easy to play on the guitar – all you need to do is have some basic chords and strumming techniques handy! The song follows an A-D-E chord pattern with a few variations along the way, making it an ideal choice for beginner and intermediate players alike.
15 Heartbreak Hotel
This 1956 hit was one of Elvis’ first big singles and is among the most iconic songs from his early career. Despite its age, Heartbreak Hotel is still an incredibly popular song – and it’s easy to understand why! The chord progression follows a simple C-G-A-F pattern all the way through, making it very straightforward to learn. In addition, you’ll be able to throw in some classic blues licks if you want to spice up your rendition of this classic track. [5]
16 I Just Can’t Help Believing
This is a classic Elvis ballad, perfect for any guitar player. The chords are simple and it’s an easy song to learn. Try playing some of the more complex harmonies and adding your own style as you get more confident with the song. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
17 Baby, What You Want Me To Do
This R&B-tinged Elvis classic is a great song to practice on guitar. The intro riff is simple, as are the chords that follow. You can also add some of your own flair into the solo sections and make it more interesting. It’s sure to be a hit with any crowd!
18 All Shook Up
This Elvis Presley classic is a simple song to master on guitar. You only need three chords—G, D, and A7—and you can easily play along with the song’s catchy rhythm. While the pattern may be repetitive, the energy of this hit will keep musicians rocking out for hours!
19 Are You Lonesome Tonight
This song might be slow and emotional, but it’s a cinch to play on guitar. With just three chords—G, D, and E minor—you can quickly learn the melody plus the harmony parts for this Elvis classic. Whether you’re playing solo or with a band, this one is sure to be a hit!
20 Little Sister
With only two chords—G and D7—this upbeat song is perfect for the beginner guitarist. The chorus progression should be easy to pick up, and you can add your own guitar solos in between the verses. Plus, this one has a pretty unique rhythm that’ll keep audience members tapping their feet!
Tips on Learning Elvis Presley Songs on Guitar
Learning Elvis Presley songs on guitar can be a fun and rewarding way to explore the music of the King. Whether you’re an experienced guitarist or just starting out, here are some tips to help get you started:
- Choose songs with simple chord progressions. Many of Elvis’s most popular tunes have straightforward chord progressions that will make it easier for newer guitarists to learn. Examples include “Love Me Tender,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” and “Hound Dog.”
- Learn the strumming patterns associated with each song. Strumming patterns are essential for playing Elvis Presley songs correctly as they provide structure and add a lot of flavor to the songs. For example, “Love Me Tender” has an alternating downstroke/upstroke pattern while “Hound Dog” is more of a shuffle strum.
- Learn how to play embellishments. Once you have the chords and strumming patterns for a song figured out, try adding some extra flair by incorporating blues-style licks or rockabilly riffs. This will give your playing personality and make it stand out from other versions of the same songs.
- Practice with a backing track or live band. Playing along with a recording or in front of an audience can help you refine your technique and build confidence in your playing. If you’re playing with a live band, make sure to listen closely and follow the bass player’s cues so that you stay in time.
These are just a few tips for learning Elvis Presley songs on guitar. With some practice and dedication, you can be strumming along with the King in no time! [6]
Simple Elvis Presley Songs for Guitar Comparison
Embark on your musical journey with easy-to-play Elvis Presley songs on the guitar. This detailed comparison table offers insights into chord complexity, rhythm difficulty, strumming patterns, and additional elements to guide you in selecting the perfect Elvis tune for your skill level.
| Song | Chord Complexity | Rhythm Difficulty | Strumming Pattern | Additional Techniques |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hound Dog | Low | Easy | Basic Down-Strumming | Simple Riffs |
| Love Me Tender | Low | Easy | Arpeggio Strumming | Fingerpicking Intro |
| Can’t Help Falling in Love | Low-Medium | Intermediate | Slow Waltz Strumming | Fingerpicking Throughout |
| Blue Suede Shoes | Medium | Moderate | Rooted Power Chords | Simple Guitar Solo |
| All Shook Up | Low | Easy | Up-Down Strumming | Intro Guitar Lick |
Explanation:
- Hound Dog: A classic with low chord complexity and easy rhythm, featuring simple riffs for added flair.
- Love Me Tender: Low complexity with an arpeggio strumming pattern and a fingerpicking intro for a softer touch.
- Can’t Help Falling in Love: Offers a low-medium chord complexity, an intermediate rhythm, and incorporates fingerpicking throughout the song.
- Blue Suede Shoes: Medium chord complexity and moderate rhythm with rooted power chords and a simple guitar solo.
- All Shook Up: Easy chords, simple up-down strumming, and an introductory guitar lick for added excitement.
Use this table to select an Elvis Presley song that aligns with your guitar-playing proficiency and adds a touch of the King’s magic to your repertoire.
FAQ
What’s the easiest Elvis song to learn on guitar?
The easiest Elvis song to learn on guitar is “Can’t Help Falling In Love.” It consists of simple chords and the melody is straightforward to play. Other easy songs include “Love Me Tender,” “Suspicious Minds,” and “Jailhouse Rock.”
What other instruments are required for playing an Elvis song?
Most Elvis songs require just a guitar but some may also require additional instruments such as a piano or drums. The other instrumentation will depend on the particular arrangement you choose to use.
How long does it take to learn an Elvis song on guitar?
It depends on the complexity of the song and your level of experience with the guitar. For a beginner, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to learn an Elvis song on guitar. As your skill level increases, you’ll learn songs more quickly.
What was Elvis Presley’s favorite guitar?
Elvis Presley was a fan of Gibson guitars, and his favorite one was the J-200 acoustic guitar. This powerful instrument had a unique sound that perfectly complemented his signature style. His Gibson J-200 even had an engraving on it that read “Treat Me Nice”. Elvis often used this guitar during live performances, and it is now part of the collection of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio. Learning how to play some of Elvis’ easiest songs on guitar can be a fun way for beginners to get comfortable with their own musical skills.
How well could Elvis play guitar?
Elvis was an incredibly talented musician, and his skill on the guitar was a major factor in his success. He had mastered a variety of techniques that allowed him to play both hard-driving rockabilly tunes and mellow country ballads. Elvis often played chords with his thumb while strumming with his other fingers, which gave his music its signature sound. Additionally, he had a good grasp on improvisation techniques so he could switch up styles quickly during live performances.
What three chords did Elvis know?
Elvis was a master of his craft, and he knew many chords. However, the three most common chords that he used in his music were G, C, and D Major. With these three chords alone, it’s possible to play a variety of Elvis’ biggest hits like “Blue Suede Shoes” and “Hound Dog”. Once you’re comfortable with these basic chords, you can start experimenting with different progressions to create your own unique spin on classic songs.
Who taught Elvis to play guitar?
Elvis was mostly self-taught when it came to guitar playing, but a man named Scotty Moore has been credited with teaching him the basics. Moore was an experienced session musician and producer who had worked with many of the biggest names in music. He played on Elvis’ early recordings and helped create his iconic sound by introducing new techniques like slapback echo and tremolo picking.
Did Elvis have perfect pitch?
Although it has never been officially confirmed, many people believe that Elvis had perfect pitch. This means he could identify and name musical notes without the help of any external source. Such an ability would have come in handy for his guitar playing, as it allowed him to quickly and accurately replicate songs from memory.
Can you recommend some easy Elvis songs for beginners to play on the guitar?
Absolutely! If you’re a beginner looking to play Elvis songs on the guitar, consider starting with classics like “Love Me Tender,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” and “Hound Dog.” These songs feature simple chord progressions and strumming patterns, making them ideal for those who are just starting their Elvis repertoire on the guitar.
Which Elvis songs are known for their simplicity and are suitable for guitarists with basic chord knowledge?
For guitarists with basic chord knowledge, Elvis songs like “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Jailhouse Rock,” and “Blue Suede Shoes” are great choices. These songs have straightforward chord structures, allowing beginners to focus on rhythm and playing along with the infectious energy of Elvis’s rock and roll classics.
Can you suggest Elvis Presley songs that are easy to play on an acoustic guitar for a solo performance?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for Elvis songs suitable for solo acoustic performances, try “Love Me Tender,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” and “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” These songs adapt well to acoustic arrangements and are perfect for showcasing Elvis’s timeless ballads in a solo guitar setting.
What are some Elvis songs that incorporate easy yet iconic guitar riffs for players who enjoy a bit of flair?
If you enjoy incorporating iconic guitar riffs, Elvis songs like “Suspicious Minds” and “Burning Love” offer catchy and recognizable riffs that are still manageable for players who want to add a bit of flair to their performance. These songs provide a great opportunity to showcase Elvis’s rock and roll style on the guitar.
Are there any Elvis songs that are suitable for beginners interested in practicing their fingerpicking skills on the guitar?
Absolutely! For beginners interested in fingerpicking, Elvis’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love” is an excellent choice. The song’s gentle melody and simple fingerpicking pattern make it a great piece for developing fingerstyle skills while enjoying the beauty of one of Elvis’s most iconic ballads.
Useful Video: How to play Jailhouse Rock – Elvis Presley – Guitar Lesson
Conclusion
To conclude, learning to play Elvis songs on guitar can be a meaningful and fun experience. Whether you are just starting out or have been playing for years, there is something for everyone. With the right guidance, skill level, and practice, you can easily learn some of Elvis’s classics and make unforgettable memories while doing so. So grab your guitar and let the King of Rock & Roll take you away!
References:
- https://bestguitarsnow.com/easy-elvis-presley-songs/
- https://rockguitaruniverse.com/elvis-presley-songs-to-play-on-guitar/
- https://instrumentio.com/easy-elvis-songs-on-guitar/
- https://www.guitarplayerbox.com/band/Elvis-Presley/
- https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-easiest-Elvis-song-to-play-on-the-guitar
- https://www.andyguitar.co.uk/lessons/play-10-elvis-songs-with-3-chords/