Reggae music is one of the most popular genres in the world, and it’s easy to see why – from its captivating grooves to its powerful message of peace, love and positivity. But sometimes strumming along can be a bit challenging for guitarists who are just starting out. To help you get started on your reggae guitar journey, we’ve compiled an array of effortless songs for you to practice and learn! Whether you’re into simple skanking rhythms or feel like experimenting with some jazz chords and melodic embellishments, there’s something here for players of any experience level. So go ahead and start rocking out – it won’t take long before you have listeners tapping!
Easy Reggae Guitar Songs
1 UB40 – Red Red Wine
This classic reggae tune from UB40 is easy to play on the guitar and only requires a few simple chords. The two main chords you need to know are Em and A7. Begin by strumming four consecutive downstrokes with each chord in 4/4 time, then add some upstroke accents to create that classic reggae vibe. You can also use a pick for more of a ska sound.
2 Protoje – Who Knows ft. Chronixx
Who Knows by Protoje featuring Chronixx is a great song for guitarists of any level. In this tune, you’ll need to learn the chords A minor, F major, and G major. To play the reggae strumming pattern, start with four downstrokes on each chord in 4/4 time and add some upstrokes in between. You can use a pick or your fingers depending on the sound you want to achieve.
3 Inner Circle – Sweat
This upbeat reggae song from the 1990s will get you singing and dancing along. It’s a great song to learn for any level of guitar player and can be a fun way to practice your skills. The chords are relatively simple, and with some gentle strumming techniques, you’ll have it mastered in no time. Try playing the iconic opening riff before going into the main body of the track! [1]
4 Bob Marley – Redemption Song
Bob Marley is the undisputed king of Reggae, and his classic track, Redemption Song, still stands up today. It’s a great choice for guitar players of all levels and offers a plaintive melody that can be simply strummed along with. With some easy chords and an unforgettable chorus, you’ll soon have your own version of this timeless song – although nothing will compare to Bob!
5 Soja – You And Me
This uplifting track from Soja is a great choice for intermediate guitar players. The chords are more complex than some of the other songs on this list, but they still maintain that easy reggae feel. With some practice and dedication, you’ll be able to master the song in no time!
6 Bob Marley – Stir It Up
Bob Marley’s classic song “Stir It Up” is a great way to get into playing reggae on the guitar. With its light, bouncy rhythm and simple chord progression, you won’t have any difficulty playing along with the record. The main challenge of this song is getting that feel just right. So start by listening to Bob Marley’s version and then gradually build up your speed as you become more comfortable with it. You may also want to try experimenting with different strumming patterns to get a unique sound.
7 Vanupie – Rockadown
Vanupie’s “Rockadown” is a great easy reggae song for beginners. It features the same basic chord progression as Bob Marley’s classic, but with a much simpler rhythm. The main challenge here is getting the chords right and playing them in time with the beat. Start by practicing each chord individually, then gradually build up your speed until you are able to play along with the record. Once you’ve got it down, add some of your own strumming patterns to give it your own personal touch!
8 Tarrus Riley – She’s Royal
Tarrus Riley’s “She’s Royal” is another great reggae song for beginners. The song features a straightforward chord progression, and the rhythm has a nice laid back feel to it. Start by playing each chord slowly to get the hang of it, then gradually build up your speed as you become more comfortable with it. [2]
9 SOJA – I Don’t Want To Wait
This reggae song by SOJA is a great choice for beginning guitarists. Its catchy melody and simple chord progression make it an easy, but enjoyable song to learn. The chorus is especially memorable, with its repeating lyrics “I don’t want to wait till the morning comes, no more waiting on tomorrow”. It’s also relatively fast-paced, making it a great practice track for developing your picking skills.
10 Gregory Isaacs – Night Nurse
Gregory Isaacs is a reggae legend, and this song is one of his best-known hits. Its signature guitar riff is unmistakable and will have you humming for days. Although the chords are simple, the song does require some skill to play it properly. The smooth melody will definitely keep you hooked as you master it on the guitar!
11 Chronixx – Smile Jamaica
Smile Jamaica is a timeless, classic track from Chronixx. This upbeat reggae song is sure to put a smile on your face and make you want to get up and dance! With its catchy chorus and simple guitar chords, Smile Jamaica can be easily picked up by any beginner guitarist. The strumming pattern for this song follows a typical reggae beat – down-up-down-up-down x3 with the last two beats held out (down-up). [3]
12 Bob Marley – Natural Mystic
Natural Mystic is one of the late great Bob Marley’s most popular songs. This reggae classic has been covered by countless artists and makes for a great addition to any guitarist’s repertoire. With easy chords that are repeated throughout the song, this track can be picked up easily by anyone looking to learn some reggae guitar.
13 Chronixx – Skankin’ Sweet
Chronixx’s song “Skankin’ Sweet” is a classic reggae tune that any experienced or beginner guitar player can learn. The chords used in this song are simple and easy to replicate, making it perfect for someone just starting out on their reggae guitar journey. With its groovy beat and catchy chorus, this track will have you skanking all night long!
14 Bob Marley – Three Little Birds
A classic tune from the master of reggae himself, Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds” is a must-know for any reggae fan and guitar player. With its beautiful melody and uplifting message, this song is sure to be a crowd pleaser at any gathering. The chords are easy to learn as well, making it perfect for those just getting started with reggae guitar.
15 Collie Buddz – Love & Reggae
Collie Buddz’s “Love & Reggae” is a great track for any reggae fan to learn on guitar. The chords are simple and easy to replicate, making it an ideal choice for those just starting out with their reggae guitar journey. With its infectious rhythm and catchy chorus, this song will have you grooving all night long! So grab your guitar and start strumming away at this classic tune from Collie Buddz.
16 Chezidek – All My Life
This infectious, bouncy Reggae rhythm from Chezidek offers a great challenge for any aspiring Reggae guitarist. It’s easy to pick up the basic chords and notes of this song, but it takes practice to be able to play with the timing and precision of Chezidek. This is a great track for working on palm muting, fingerpicking and syncopation. [4]
17 Bob Marley – No Woman No Cry
This classic Bob Marley song is one of the best-loved Reggae tunes ever, and it’s a great one to learn for guitarists of any level. The melody of the guitar part is relatively easy to pick up, once you get your fingers around the chords. The trick here is getting the swing feel of the beat right – it needs to be smooth and consistent if you want to replicate Marley’s sound.
18 Peter Tosh – Johnny B Goode
This Peter Tosh song is a harder challenge but still suitable for beginners. It’s based around a riff that can be tricky to master, but once you get the hang of it, you can keep coming back to practice and improve your playing. You’ll need to work on getting the timing exactly right, in order to faithfully replicate this classic Reggae sound.
19 Stick Figure – World On Fire (ft. Slightly Stoopid)
This reggae song is perfect for beginners who are just starting out on the guitar. The chords in this song are simple and straightforward, making it easy to learn and play along with. The melody has a laid-back vibe that fits perfectly with the relaxed feel of reggae music. Stick Figure’s World On Fire features guest vocals from Slightly Stoopid, adding an extra layer of depth to the track. This is a great tune to jam out to when you’re feeling creative! [5]
20 Patrice – Soulstorm
This reggae-inspired song from Patrice is full of energy and emotion. The guitar chords are fairly simple, making it easy for beginners to learn and master quickly. With a bit of practice and patience, you’ll be playing along in no time! The upbeat rhythm will have you tapping your feet and dancing along with the music in no time. This song is sure to bring out the best in your playing. Plus, its uplifting message will make you feel good while playing!
21 Blondie – The Tide Is High
This classic from Blondie has been covered by many artists across a variety of genres, but its reggae roots remain. The guitar chords for this song are simple and easy to play, making it perfect for beginners and more experienced players alike. Plus, the catchy melody will have you humming along in no time! This is a great choice to learn when you’re looking for a tune that’s upbeat and fun.
22 Bob Marley – Sun Is Shining
This timeless classic from Bob Marley is a great tune to learn when you’re just starting out on the guitar. The chords are fairly simple, making it easy to get up and running quickly. The mellow vibe of this song makes it a pleasure to play and sing along with. Plus, its positive message will make you feel good as you practice!
23 Protoje – Kingston Be Wise
This classic reggae song from Protoje features a catchy rhythm and memorable melodies. Its upbeat tempo and joyful atmosphere make it an ideal selection for a beginner guitarist looking to learn some easy Reggae songs. To play Kingston Be Wise, start off by playing the intro guitar riff four times in total. This is followed by the main chord progression which consists of D, C, G and A minor chords played in a continuous loop throughout the entire song. The bridge section then introduces new chords: F major and B minor.
24 Bob Marley – Roots Rock Reggae
Bob Marley’s classic hit Roots Rock Reggae is an easy Reggae tune to add to your repertoire. To play it, start off with the intro riff which consists of repeating a D major chord followed by a B minor 7th chord. This is followed by the main verse progression which cycles through G major, A minor and C major chords in a continuous loop throughout the song. The chorus section then switches up the rhythm slightly as you play E minor and F major chords instead. Finally, finish off with the bridge section where you can strum through all four chords at once for added texture and flavor. [6]
25 Ziggy Marley – Love Is My Religion
This classic reggae song from Marley’s fourth studio album, Love Is My Religion, is a great one to learn the basics of reggae guitar. The simple chord progression and relaxed rhythm make it easy to get the hang of. Be sure to listen closely to the recording for hints on how to fingerpick or strum in the true reggae style.
26 Stick Figure – Angels Above Me
From the album Set in Stone, this upbeat reggae tune is perfect for beginners. The chords are straightforward, and there is a single repeating riff that you can use to bring some texture to your playing. As an added bonus, the song also has smooth harmonies and a catchy chorus to enjoy as you learn.
27 Bob Marley – Concrete Jungle
Though it may feel daunting, this classic Bob Marley song is a great opportunity for guitarists of all levels to hone their reggae chops. The intro riff is a bit more complicated than other tunes on the list, but with some patience and practice you’ll be able to master it in no time. Once you’ve got that down, the rest of the song will be a breeze.
28 Slightly Stoopid – Wiseman
The band Slightly Stoopid, who hails from San Diego, has become one of the most popular reggae-rock bands in recent years. One of their best songs is “Wiseman,” a catchy and upbeat reggae song that’s perfect for novice guitarists to learn. The basic chords are G, D, A minor and Csus2, which form a simple repeating pattern throughout the song. This makes it easy to play along with the track and begin building your skills as a guitar player.
29 Bob Marley – Misty Morning
It wouldn’t be a reggae guitar lesson without mentioning the legendary Bob Marley. His song “Misty Morning” is an iconic and timeless classic, with its unmistakable rhythm and melody. The main chord progression follows G-D-A7-Bm, along with a few variations of those chords throughout the track. It’s a great song to learn if you’re just starting out on the guitar as it will help you build your chord knowledge while also learning one of rock ‘n’ roll’s most famous songs. [7]
30 Bob Marley – Pimper’s Paradise
This is one of Bob Marley’s most beloved reggae songs that almost anyone will recognize. The chords are easy to play – just G, D, Em and C – and you can easily find the lyrics online. The song has an infectious groove that will have everyone singing along with you in no time!
31 Tribal Seeds – Dawn Of Time
This upbeat reggae tune from Tribal Seeds has a simple chord structure of just four chords – G, D, Em and C. With its positive lyrics and catchy melody, it is sure to put a smile on everyone’s face when you play it.
32 Koffee – Raggamuffin
Koffee burst onto the scene in 2019 with her smash hit Raggamuffin. This song is one of the most popular easy Reggae guitar songs out there and a favorite among beginners. The song is great for getting your feet wet with reggae guitar playing as it’s an upbeat track that uses the same chords throughout. It also has some fun filled breaks that let you show off your chops (even if they’re not advanced).
33 Stand High Patrol – Along The River
This next selection is a bit more complex than the previous one but still within reach of lower-intermediate guitarists. Along The River by Stand High Patrol has some interesting chord progressions and some cool syncopation in its chorus. This song is great for learning because it will challenge you while being fairly repetitive and manageable.
34 Peter Tosh – Legalize It
From Tosh’s 1976 album Legalize It, this classic reggae track is a timeless song advocating for the legalization of marijuana. The rhythm is incredibly infectious and it’s easy to play along with on guitar, making it a great choice for beginning reggae players. The two chord progression centers around G major and A major chords, with some additional variations thrown in throughout. To get that authentic reggae sound out of your guitar, make sure to use plenty of palm muting and syncopated picking!
35 Soja – Mentality
Off of their 2006 album Get Wiser, Mentality is one of Soja’s most popular songs. The track features a simple chord progression of A major, D major and E minor, making it a great choice for beginner reggae guitarists. To really nail the sound, work on getting your strumming pattern just right – it should be syncopated but still relatively relaxed to create the classic reggae groove. [8]
Benefits of Playing Guitar
Playing guitar offers many benefits, from developing an appreciation of music to improving coordination and concentration. It is a great way to express creativity and build self-confidence in both children and adults alike. Guitar playing can also help reduce stress, provide a distraction from worries, and promote relaxation. Additionally, learning how to play the guitar can improve memory skills and cognitive development as well as foster a better understanding of rhythm and timing.
All of these benefits make it easy to see why so many people find joy in playing this instrument. Easy reggae guitar songs are perfect for those just starting out on their musical journey or looking for a fun challenge. Reggae often uses simple chord progressions that are easy to learn but still have an intricate sound when played correctly. This makes it a great genre for learning the fundamentals of guitar playing and having fun while doing so.
Is It Hard to Play Guitar?
No, playing guitar is not hard! While it may take some practice and dedication to master the instrument, anyone can learn how to play basic reggae songs on guitar with a few simple steps. With just a little bit of knowledge and understanding of chords, strumming patterns and scales, you can quickly start playing easy reggae guitar songs. Learning the basics of guitar-playing doesn’t have to be difficult either.
Even just a few minutes of practice will make a world of difference in the long run! Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to explore different reggae guitar songs and learn how to play them. You can try playing along with popular reggae hits or even create your own unique versions of these beloved classics. With enough dedication and practice, you’ll be able to quickly become comfortable playing easy reggae guitar songs.
How to Choose a Guitar?
Choosing the right guitar for playing easy reggae songs can be a difficult decision. It’s important to consider what type of sound you want to hear and how comfortable the instrument is for you. An acoustic guitar is ideal for playing reggae music as it provides an easier action than electric guitars, but electric guitars have more options and effects that can add to your overall sound. You also want to make sure that you get a quality instrument with proper intonation so that it will stay in tune throughout your performance.
When selecting a guitar, look at its features such as playability, body shape, neck size, fingerboard radius, pickups and strings. Playability refers to how easy or difficult the instrument is to play, and this is largely determined by the body shape. The neck size affects your ability to move up and down the fretboard while playing, while fingerboard radius will dictate how easily you can bend notes. Pickups are important, as they’ll determine how much power your instrument has. Finally, strings affect the tone of the guitar—heavier gauge strings will produce a more powerful sound than lighter gauge strings.
By considering each of these factors when buying a guitar, you’ll be able to find an instrument that plays easy reggae songs perfectly. With a quality instrument in hand, all that’s left is for you to practice and become a master guitarist!
Rhythmic Reggae Grooves: Effortless Reggae Guitar Songs for a Chilled Vibe
Immerse yourself in the laid-back world of reggae with these easy-to-play guitar songs. Explore this detailed comparison table, featuring chord complexity, strumming patterns, tempo, song structure, and additional techniques. Unlock the soothing rhythms and infectious melodies of reggae effortlessly on your guitar.
| Song | Chord Complexity | Strumming Patterns | Tempo (BPM) | Song Structure | Additional Techniques |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Three Little Birds – Bob Marley | Low | Upbeat Strumming | 75-90 | Verse, Chorus, Bridge | Chord Hammer-ons |
| No Woman, No Cry – Bob Marley | Low-Medium | Slow Strumming | 60-75 | Verse, Chorus, Outro | Fingerpicking in Intro |
| Is This Love – Bob Marley | Low | Upbeat Strumming | 80-100 | Verse, Chorus, Bridge | Chord Slides |
| Stir It Up – Bob Marley | Low | Steady Strumming | 70-85 | Verse, Chorus, Solo | Muted Strumming |
| Buffalo Soldier – Bob Marley | Low | Upbeat Strumming | 80-95 | Verse, Chorus, Outro | Chord Stabs |
Explanation:
- Three Little Birds – Bob Marley: Low chord complexity, upbeat strumming, tempo of 75-90 BPM. Follows a verse-chorus-bridge structure with chord hammer-ons for a lively feel.
- No Woman, No Cry – Bob Marley: Low-medium chord complexity, slow strumming, tempo of 60-75 BPM. Organized into a verse-chorus-outro structure with fingerpicking in the intro for a soulful start.
- Is This Love – Bob Marley: Low chord complexity, upbeat strumming, tempo of 80-100 BPM. Progresses through a verse-chorus-bridge structure with chord slides for a smooth reggae vibe.
- Stir It Up – Bob Marley: Low chord complexity, steady strumming, tempo of 70-85 BPM. Features a verse-chorus-solo structure with muted strumming for rhythmic variation.
- Buffalo Soldier – Bob Marley: Low chord complexity, upbeat strumming, tempo of 80-95 BPM. Follows a verse-chorus-outro structure with chord stabs for a distinctive reggae flavor.
Choose a reggae song from this table and transport yourself to the cool, rhythmic world of reggae guitar vibes.
FAQ
What is the easiest reggae song to play on guitar?
The easiest reggae song to play on guitar is “No Woman, No Cry” by Bob Marley. The chords are relatively simple and it is a fun and popular classic for beginners to learn.What other songs are good for beginner reggae guitarists?Other easy songs that are great for beginner reggae guitarists include “Stir It Up” by Bob Marley, “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley, “Get Up Stand Up” by Bob Marley & the Wailers, “Trench Town Rock” by Bob Marley & the Wailers, and “Waiting in Vain” by Jimmy Cliff. These songs all have simple chord progressions and catchy riffs that make them great for novice guitar players.
Are there any other tips for playing reggae guitar?
One of the most important things to remember when learning how to play reggae guitar is to stay in time with the beat. Reggae music has a distinctive rhythm that can be tricky to master, so it’s important to practice keeping good time while strumming chords or picking out melodies. Additionally, try adding some subtle variations and improvisations on top of the basic chords and progressions, as this will help give your playing some flavor. Finally, don’t forget to have fun!
How do you play easy reggae on guitar?
Playing easy reggae guitar songs on guitar is not as difficult as it may seem. All that’s needed is a basic understanding of some common reggae chords, a steady beat and the ability to feel the groove. To get started, begin by learning the common I-IV-V chord progression. This progression consists of three chords – I (root note), IV (fourth note in the scale) and V (fifth note in the scale). For example, if you’re in the key of C, these chords would be C major, F major and G major respectively. Once this progression has been mastered, move on to more complex rhythms by playing different variations of eighth notes or sixteenth notes while keeping time with your strumming hand. Experiment with adding different accents to your strumming patterns, such as upstrokes and downstrokes, in order to create more interesting sounds. Finally, practice playing chords with a laid-back reggae feel by using palm muting or dampening techniques.
What is the fastest guitar solo song?
The fastest guitar solo song is “Flight of the Bumblebee” by Nicolai Rimsky-Korsakov. This song has been performed by many famous guitarists, including Steve Vai and Joe Satriani. The piece requires fast twitch movements and excellent coordination of the two hands to play it at breakneck speed. It has become a classic showpiece for any guitarist looking to showcase their technical prowess and impressive finger speed.
What are simple reggae chord progressions?
Simple reggae chord progressions are usually based on the I-IV-V pattern. For example, in the key of C major, these chords would be C major, F major and G major respectively. Other common reggae progressions include I-vi-IV-V and vi-IV-I-V. These progressions can also be extended by adding a seventh or ninth chord to create more complex harmonic movement. Simple reggae rhythms often emphasize eighth notes or sixteenth notes with various strumming patterns such as upstrokes and downstrokes being used to create different accents. Finally, palm muting techniques can be used to add a laid back reggae feel to your playing.
What key is reggae in?
Reggae is typically played in the key of B♭, though some songs may be in a different key. Most reggae songs use basic chords like B♭, F and Cmaj7. By mastering these simple chords, you can easily play a range of classic reggae tunes.
What is the guitar pattern in reggae?
Reggae guitar playing is characterized by certain rhythmic patterns played in a very specific way. The main reggae guitar pattern consists of two distinct elements: the chords, which are usually played on a muted down-stroke and the skank, which is an up-stroke strumming pattern that is performed on two strings. When combined together, these two elements form a unique sound that defines traditional reggae guitar playing. The chord progression for most songs in the genre follows this formula: I – IV – V – I (where each number represents a different chord). This cycle typically goes through several times throughout the song and can be modified to fit different musical styles within reggae. For example, some reggae songs may use a different chord progression while others may use the same one. Additionally, skank patterns often vary from song to song and can be adapted depending on the style of music being performed. Ultimately, no two reggae guitarists will sound exactly alike due to these differences in playing styles and chord progressions.
Can you recommend easy reggae guitar songs for beginners?
Certainly! Some easy reggae guitar songs for beginners include “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley, “Redemption Song,” and “No Woman, No Cry.” These songs typically feature simple chord progressions and strumming patterns, making them accessible for those who are new to playing reggae on the guitar.
Which reggae songs are suitable for acoustic guitar playing?
If you prefer acoustic arrangements, songs like “One Love” and “Is This Love” by Bob Marley are great choices. These songs can be adapted for acoustic guitar, allowing you to enjoy the laid-back reggae vibes while playing on an unplugged instrument.
Can you suggest reggae songs that focus on rhythm and strumming techniques?
Absolutely! “Buffalo Soldier” and “Stir It Up” are excellent choices for practicing reggae rhythm and strumming techniques. These songs provide opportunities to work on the distinctive upstrokes and syncopated rhythms that are characteristic of reggae guitar playing.
Are there any reggae songs with easy lead guitar parts for beginners?
For beginners interested in lead guitar, “One Drop” by Bob Marley and “Sweat (A La La La La Long)” by Inner Circle offer relatively simple lead guitar parts. These songs allow you to add melodic elements to your reggae guitar playing without overwhelming complexity.
What are some reggae songs with minimalistic chord progressions for beginners?
If you’re looking for songs with minimalistic chord progressions, “Jamming” by Bob Marley and “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin are good choices. These songs have straightforward chord structures, making them accessible for beginners looking to play reggae on the guitar.
Useful Video: Easy Reggae Chord Progression / Beginners Friendly / Acoustic Guitar
Conclusion
Reggae music is an iconic genre with a unique sound that is easily recognizable. The guitar playing in reggae songs is the backbone and provides the foundation for other instruments to build upon. Learning how to play easy reggae songs on the guitar can help you become familiar with this style and be able to recreate its groovy, laid-back sound. Whether you’re just starting to learn or have been playing for years, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your guitar and start strumming these classic tunes! Who knows? Maybe you’ll discover a hidden love for reggae music!
References:
- https://rockguitaruniverse.com/top-reggae-guitar-songs/
- https://instrumentio.com/easy-reggae-songs-on-guitar/
- https://sixstringacoustic.com/learning-reggae-made-easy
- https://www.ultimate-guitar.com/collections/1022455/
- https://blog.revoguitarstraps.com/50-easy-guitar-songs/
- https://nationalguitaracademy.com/reggae-guitar-chords/
- https://popnable.com/reggae-songs-on-guitar
- https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4WFvi3oUuVvCCUgQcDEs48