Are you a budding musician looking to add Pink Floyd’s iconic sound to your repertoire? Or perhaps you’re an experienced guitarist wanting to refresh their memory of the band’s classic works. Either way, this guide will provide you with some easy Pink Floyd songs on guitar that are guaranteed to impress both beginners and experts alike! From ‘Another Brick in the Wall’ to ‘Wish You Were Here,’ we’ve got everything from soothing ballads through bluesy rockers – all fully explained in simple steps. So if you’re ready for a voyage of discovery into the wonderful world of Pink Floyd, keep reading!
Easy Pink Floyd Songs on Guitar
1 Another Brick in the Wall
This classic anthem from the 1979 album The Wall is a great choice for guitarists just starting out. The intro riff and the verse are easy to learn and will provide you with some basic skills to help progress your playing.
2 Comfortably Numb
One of the most popular Pink Floyd songs, Comfortably Numb is a great song to practice due to its slow tempo and easy-to-play riffs. Guitarists can learn the intro riff in minutes and progress into learning the solo section for even more challenges!
3 Wish You Were Here
Wish You Were Here is a classic Pink Floyd song that has been covered by hundreds of artists since its debut in 1975. It’s also one of the easier songs to learn on guitar due to its repetitive chord progressions and simple melody line. The intro features two acoustic guitars playing arpeggios, with the second guitar joining in after three bars. The main verse follows a gentle strumming pattern with several chords and a few simple licks during the chorus. To add more depth, you can add some fills in between each chord change. Another way to give it an extra dimension is to use fingerpicking instead of strumming for certain parts of the song. [1]
4 Hey You
Hey You is a rock classic from 1979’s The Wall and it features some of the more recognizable sounds from the album. As with many Pink Floyd songs, the guitar part is quite straightforward, featuring just four chords throughout most of the song. The intro starts off with an acoustic guitar playing arpeggios before switching to a distorted electric guitar for the verse. To make things interesting, you could also vary between fingerpicking and strumming in different sections. During the chorus and bridge, there are some simple licks that can be added to further enrich your playing.
5 High Hopes
High Hopes is a song by the British rock band Pink Floyd, featured on their 1994 album The Division Bell. Written by lead singer and guitarist David Gilmour, it has become one of their most popular singles. Boasting straightforward verses and an enthralling chorus, High Hopes is the perfect song to master if you’re new to playing guitar. The chord progression is straightforward, with only four chords in total, and many of the riffs are easy enough for beginners to learn. Additionally, the intro and solo are relatively simple compared to other Pink Floyd songs. This makes High Hopes a great pick if you want to get started playing some classic Pink Floyd tunes on your guitar!
6 Learning to Fly
Learning To Fly is a track from Pink Floyd’s 1987 album A Momentary Lapse of Reason. While it was not released as a single, the song has become one of their most popular tracks and is often featured on greatest hits compilations. The main riff for Learning To Fly is made up of just two chords and can be mastered quickly by guitarists at any level. Additionally, the solo section features some simple but effective licks that are great for beginners to practice. With its catchy melody and easy-to-learn chord progression, Learning To Fly is an ideal choice if you’re looking for an easy Pink Floyd song on guitar! [2]
7 Shine on You Crazy Diamond
Shine on You Crazy Diamond is a beloved Pink Floyd song, and it’s an excellent one to learn if you’re just getting started with playing guitar. The main riff is easy enough for beginners, but with the addition of some simple chords and techniques like hammer-ons and pull-offs, it can sound great even when played by experienced guitarists. To make sure you have the timing down, practice slowly at first until you get comfortable with the strumming and fingerpicking patterns. Once you’ve nailed that part down, you can experiment with adding some creative flourishes and picking up the pace a bit.
8 Time
Time is another classic Pink Floyd song that’s perfect for guitarists of all levels. It features some beautiful chord progressions and a memorable melody, but it’s simple enough to play without being too overwhelming. If you’re just starting out on the guitar, begin by focusing on the main riff, which consists of just a few notes and chords. Once you’ve got that down, work on adding some of the additional licks and embellishments to really make it your own.
9 Money
Money is one of Pink Floyd’s most recognizable hits, and it’s an enjoyable song to play on the guitar. The main riff consists of a few basic chords that should be relatively easy for beginners to pick up. To make it sound more interesting, try adding some different techniques like bends or slides to spice things up. Experienced players can also add in some extra flourishes with hammer-ons and pull-offs for a unique take on the classic song.
10 Us and Them
The opening track on Pink Floyd’s 1973 classic album, The Dark Side of the Moon, “Us and Them” is a great starting point for beginner guitarists looking to learn some Pink Floyd. With its easy-to-follow chords and simple arpeggios, “Us and Them” can be learned with little effort or frustration. All you need are an open E minor chord, a G major chord, two D major chords and the strumming pattern of your choice. Once you have those simple pieces in place, all that’s left is adding in the beautiful saxophone solo to recreate this timeless song! [3]
11 Breathe
This iconic song from The Dark Side of the Moon is one of the most well-known Pink Floyd tracks and it’s a great way to get your feet wet playing this seminal rock band. It only requires basic open chords like A major, D major, E minor, C major and G major so you won’t have any trouble picking up all that’s needed to play “Breathe.”
12 Louder Than Words
The final track on the album The Endless River, “Louder Than Words” is a great example of how easy Pink Floyd songs can be to play. This song requires simple power chords and only two main strumming patterns. Although there aren’t any solos or extensive lead lines found in this song, it’s a great place to start if you’re just getting familiar with playing Pink Floyd on guitar.
13 Welcome To The Machine
Welcome To The Machine is a progressive rock classic that was released by Pink Floyd on their 1975 album, Wish You Were Here. It’s a great song to learn on guitar and relatively simple to play. The main riff consists of a few basic chords, including A and G minor, as well as some single-note lines that form the distinctive melody. There are also several great solo sections with tricky rhythm riffs. If you’re looking for an easy Pink Floyd song to play on guitar, Welcome To The Machine is definitely worth learning!
14 Have a Cigar
Have a Cigar is another classic Pink Floyd song that can be fairly easy to learn on guitar. It appears on their 1975 album, Wish You Were Here, and features some simple guitar chords like A minor and C major, as well as a few more challenging single-note riffs. The main solo section requires some tricky rhythm playing, but it’s still relatively straightforward compared to some of the band’s other songs. If you’re just starting out with Pink Floyd songs on guitar, Have a Cigar is an excellent choice! [4]
15 On the Turning Away
On the Turning Away was released as a single in 1988 on Pink Floyd’s A Momentary Lapse of Reason album. The song is fairly easy to play on guitar, featuring only a few simple chords like D major and G major. There are some great single-note riffs that add to the melody line, which make it an enjoyable song to learn. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for an easy Pink Floyd tune to get started with!
16 In The Flesh
It is sure to be a crowd pleaser, with its classic Pink Floyd-style jangly guitar riffs and powerful chorus. The song may not have the most intricate chord progressions but it’s still worthy of respect for its punchy delivery and catchy melody. This one is perfect for both beginners who want to learn something fun, as well as seasoned players looking to show off their skills. As far as easy Pink Floyd songs on guitar go, this one should definitely be at the top of your list! [5]
17 Echoes
Echoes is a spectacularly well-crafted song, and just one of many timeless masterpieces from the legendary band. It’s surprisingly simple to play on guitar, with just basic chord progressions and a few lead licks. While it may take longer than some of the other songs in this list to get under your fingers, it’s definitely worth it for that epic payoff at the end!
18 Mother
One of the most popular and iconic songs by Pink Floyd, 18 Mother is a great song to learn on guitar. This classic progressive rock song has some fairly easy chord progressions that even beginning guitarists can master in no time. The signature riff at the beginning of the song is played with just three chords – E, A, and D – making it an excellent piece for learning how to transition between different chord shapes.
19 The Great Gig in the Sky
The Great Gig in the Sky is a beautiful and emotional song by Pink Floyd. While it does require some good knowledge of chords and fingerpicking technique, the main progression of this song is surprisingly easy to play. To make things even simpler, you can also use a capo on the third fret which will transpose all the chords up three half steps and make them easier to play. [6]
20 Fearless
Fearless is a relatively simple song by Pink Floyd that can be played with just four chords. There are some extended sections of the song where the chords change rapidly, but those are fairly easy to figure out and do not require any difficult chord shapes or fingerpicking patterns. This makes Fearless one of the best songs for beginner guitarists who want to learn more about playing progressive rock on guitar.
21 Run Like Hell
Another great song from Pink Floyd’s 1979 album, The Wall, this one is a lot of fun to play on guitar. It starts with a syncopated rhythm and then moves into some classic rock riffs. You can also add some lead playing over the top for added texture. The chorus is easy to pick up and will have you singing along in no time. All you need is a few chords and you’ll be ready to rock out! With its catchy hooks and smooth groove, Run Like Hell will certainly have you running like there’s no tomorrow! [7]
22 One of These Days
This track from the iconic album, Meddle (1971), is a great one to learn on guitar. The intro riff and verse are based on the same chord progression, so it’s easy to get going. Instead of complicated solos or riffs, this song relies on some simple chords and clean playing for its effect. It also gives you an opportunity to practice your fingerpicking skills as well.
23 Eclipse
Eclipse is the closing track from Dark Side of the Moon (1973), and it’s an absolute classic. With a gently building intro that gives way to some sublime guitar playing, this song will mesmerize you. Its beautiful string melodies create an atmosphere of peace and tranquility that can’t be beaten. All you need are some basic chords and you’ll be able to play along in no time. So grab your guitar, sit back, and enjoy the celestial beauty of Eclipse!
24 Brain Damage
The opening track of The Dark Side of the Moon, Brain Damage is a great one to learn on guitar. Its simple chords and fingerpicking patterns make it easy to get into, but the song still has enough complexity to keep things interesting. As you play along with this classic tune, you’ll start to appreciate its subtlety and beauty. So don’t be afraid – pick up your guitar and give Brain Damage a try! [8]
25 Arnold Layne
Arnold Layne is the debut single of the British rock band Pink Floyd, and originally appeared on their 1967 album The Piper at the Gates of Dawn. It’s easy to learn and a great way to get started playing some vintage Pink Floyd on your guitar. All you need are two chords – G and D7 – which makes it a totally accessible song for beginners. You can also use hammer-ons and slides to give it an authentic sound. There’s even an interesting syncopated rhythm that sounds complex but is actually quite simple once you get used to it. With its dreamy verse melody and quirky bridge section, Arnold Layne is a timeless classic that makes for a great introduction into the world of Pink Floyd!
26 See Emily Play
See Emily Play is another classic from the early Pink Floyd days, and a great song to play on your guitar. You’ll need to get familiar with chords like Em and Am, but once you have those down, playing See Emily Play is a breeze. The song alternates between two sections – an upbeat verse and a slower bridge – so when practicing it’s important to adjust the tempo accordingly.
27 Coming Back To Life
Coming Back To Life is a great song to play on guitar if you’re looking for something that isn’t too complicated. The chords are relatively simple and the strumming pattern perfectly matches the upbeat tempo of the song. Once you get familiar with the chord changes, it’s easy to add more ornamentation and subtleties to make Coming Back To Life sound even better.
Easy Pink Floyd Songs on Guitar Comparison Table
Explore the ease of playing various Pink Floyd songs on the guitar with this comprehensive comparison table. The table below provides a breakdown of key indicators to help you gauge the simplicity and accessibility of some of Pink Floyd’s iconic tracks for guitar enthusiasts.
| Song | Chord Complexity | Rhythm Difficulty | Strumming Pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wish You Were Here | Low | Easy | Simple Up-Down Strumming |
| Another Brick in the Wall (Part 2) | Medium | Moderate | Power Chord Emphasis |
| Comfortably Numb | Medium-High | Intermediate | Fingerpicking Intro, Strumming Chorus |
| Time | High | Advanced | Complex Rhythm Patterns |
| Brain Damage | Medium | Intermediate | Strumming and Picking |
Explanation:
- Wish You Were Here: Known for its simple chord progression and easy strumming, making it a great choice for beginners.
- Another Brick in the Wall (Part 2): Features power chords and a moderate rhythm, suitable for those with some playing experience.
- Comfortably Numb: Combines medium-high chord complexity with an intermediate level of fingerpicking and strumming.
- Time: Considered more challenging due to high chord complexity and advanced rhythm patterns.
- Brain Damage: Strikes a balance with medium chord difficulty and intermediate strumming and picking elements.
Use this table as a guide to choose Pink Floyd songs that match your skill level and enhance your guitar-playing journey.
FAQ
What’s the easiest Pink Floyd song to play on guitar?
The easiest Pink Floyd song to play on guitar is probably “Wish You Were Here”. This classic acoustic-driven ballad follows a simple four-chord progression and employs basic strumming patterns, making it an excellent choice for beginner players.
What other relatively easy Pink Floyd songs can I learn?
Aside from “Wish You Were Here”, some other good options for beginners include: “Time,” which follows a three chord progression; “Money,” with its bluesy vibe; and the iconic rocker, “Another Brick in the Wall.” All of these require only basic chords and strumming techniques, making them ideal starting points for learning Pink Floyd on guitar.
Are there any additional resources available to help me learn how to play Pink Floyd songs on guitar?
Yes! There are many resources available online that can help you learn how to play Pink Floyd songs on guitar. A great starting point is YouTube, where you’ll find countless instructional videos and tutorials. Additionally, certain websites offer tablature or sheet music with accompanying video lessons. With a bit of practice and dedication, you should be able to master your favorite Pink Floyd tunes in no time.
Are Pink Floyd songs hard to play on guitar?
No, Pink Floyd songs are not necessarily hard to play on guitar. While some tunes may employ more complex chords and techniques than others, most Pink Floyd classics can be learned relatively quickly by beginner players. With a bit of practice and dedication, you should be able to master your favorite Pink Floyd tunes in no time.
What are the easiest 2 chord songs to play on guitar?
Some of the easiest two-chord songs to play on guitar include “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan, “Wild Thing” by The Troggs, and “Day Tripper” by The Beatles. All of these use just two chords, making them perfect for beginner players. Additionally, these tunes also employ simple strumming patterns and can be learned quickly with a bit of practice.
Is it possible to learn Pink Floyd songs without tabs or sheet music?
Yes! While having access to tablature or sheet music can be helpful in terms of learning certain Pink Floyd songs on guitar, it is not necessarily a requirement. You can often find chord diagrams online which will provide you with the necessary information for playing your favorite tunes. Additionally, there are plenty of YouTube tutorials which can walk you through various songs step-by-step. With a bit of practice and dedication, you should be able to master your favorite Pink Floyd tunes in no time.
What is the fastest guitar song?
The fastest guitar song is “Bumblefoot” by Guns N’ Roses. This blistering riff-rocker clocks in at over 220 beats per minute, making it one of the most challenging and exciting songs to play on guitar. While not necessarily a Pink Floyd tune, this classic rocker is sure to test your skill and provide an adrenaline rush when performed correctly.
Are Blink 182 songs hard to play on guitar?
No, most Blink 182 songs are not particularly difficult to play on guitar. Many of their classic tunes use the same basic chord progressions and strumming patterns found in most pop-punk music. With a bit of practice and dedication, you should be able to master your favorite Blink 182 tunes in no time.
Can you recommend iconic Pink Floyd songs for beginners to learn on the guitar?
Absolutely! For beginners looking to dive into Pink Floyd’s discography, “Wish You Were Here,” “Hey You,” and “Time” are excellent choices. These songs feature recognizable melodies and relatively straightforward chord progressions, making them a great starting point for those who are new to playing Pink Floyd on the guitar.
Which Pink Floyd songs are known for their simplicity and are suitable for guitarists still mastering barre chords?
If you’re still mastering barre chords, consider starting with Pink Floyd songs like “Breathe” from “Dark Side of the Moon,” “Mother” from “The Wall,” and “Us and Them.” These songs incorporate barre chords but maintain a manageable level of complexity, providing a good challenge for developing guitarists.
Can you suggest Pink Floyd songs that focus on acoustic guitar and are accessible for beginners?
Absolutely! Pink Floyd has some great acoustic tracks suitable for beginners, such as “Fearless” and “Goodbye Blue Sky.” These songs showcase the band’s acoustic side and are relatively easier for beginners to grasp, making them a fantastic choice for those who want to explore Pink Floyd’s acoustic repertoire.
Are there any Pink Floyd songs with memorable solos that are manageable for intermediate guitar players?
If you’re an intermediate player looking to tackle iconic solos, consider songs like “Comfortably Numb” and “Money.” While these solos may pose a bit of a challenge, they are achievable for intermediate guitarists and offer an excellent opportunity to develop your soloing skills with the distinctive Pink Floyd sound.
Which Pink Floyd songs are suitable for solo guitar performances, emphasizing atmosphere and mood?
For solo guitar performances that emphasize atmosphere and mood, explore songs like “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” and “Is There Anybody Out There?” These pieces lend themselves well to solo renditions, allowing guitarists to capture the emotional depth and unique ambiance of Pink Floyd’s music in a solo performance.
Useful Video: Pink Floyd “Breathe” – David Gilmour Acoustic Guitar Lesson
Conclusion
Learning to play easy Pink Floyd songs on guitar is a great way to add some of the band’s iconic sound to your repertoire. While the songs may not be as technically challenging as some of their more masterful works, they’re still sure to impress other musicians and fans alike. With practice and dedication, you’ll soon find yourself playing these classic tunes with ease. So what are you waiting for? Grab your guitar and get started today! Who knows, maybe one day you’ll even be able to tackle some of the group’s most complex pieces!
Good luck on your journey as a Pink Floyd guitarist! And don’t forget that each session should start with thoroughly tuning up your instrument before you dive in. Happy strumming!
References:
- https://instrumentio.com/easy-pink-floyd-songs-on-guitar/
- https://www.halleonard.com/product/102911/pink-floyd
- https://www.reddit.com/r/pinkfloyd/comments/3nxea7/easiest_pink_floyd_song_to_play_on_guitar/
- https://www.guitarplayerbox.com/band/Pink-Floyd
- https://www.ultimate-guitar.com/forum/showthread.php?t=573325
- https://www.musictoyourhome.com/blog/8-easy-guitar-songs-for-every-beginner/
- https://www.gear4music.com/blog/easy-guitar-songs-for-beginners/
- https://www.merriammusic.com/school-of-music/guitar-lessons/easy-guitar-songs/