15 Fun and Easy 3-Chord Guitar Songs You Can Play Today

If you’ve just picked up the guitar, you don’t need to start with complicated finger gymnastics. In fact, some of the world’s best-loved tunes use only three simple chords: G, C, and D. These songs are easy to learn, fun to play, and they’ll keep you motivated. Let’s dive into 15 easy 3-chord guitar songs you can strum today!

👉 Want to make chord changes easier? Check out this Easy 3-Song Guitar Chord Chart Printable or the 5-in-1 Guitar Beginner Pack—both designed to help beginners over 40 start playing faster.

1. Amazing Grace

Chords: G – C – G – D – G
Time: 3/4 (waltz feel)
Tip: Try a gentle “down, down, up” strum to capture the hymn-like flow.

2. Sweet Home Alabama

Chords: D – C – G
Time: 4/4
Tip: Play steady downstrums with a bit of shuffle to get the Southern rock vibe.

3. This Land Is Your Land

Chords: G – C – D – G
Time: 4/4
Tip: A simple “down, down, up, up, down, up” works great here.

4. Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door

Chords: G – D – C
Time: 4/4
Tip: Use slow downstrums for a heartfelt, singalong feel.

5. Jambalaya (On the Bayou)

Chords: C – G – D – G
Time: 2/4 (bouncy feel)
Tip: Quick down-up strums will give it Cajun flavor.

6. Three Little Birds

Chords: G – C – D
Time: Reggae offbeat in 4/4
Tip: Strum lightly on the upstrokes for that island groove.

7. I’ll Fly Away

Chords: G – C – D – G
Time: 4/4, upbeat gospel style
Tip: Add a bit of swing in your strumming for joy-filled energy.

8. Ring of Fire

Chords: G – C – D
Time: 4/4
Tip: Keep strums steady and bright to match the Johnny Cash rhythm.

9. You Are My Sunshine

Chords: G – C – D – G
Time: 3/4
Tip: A slow waltz strum works perfectly.

10. La Bamba

Chords: C – F – G (substitute C – D – G if needed)
Time: 4/4, upbeat
Tip: Play quickly with alternating down-up strokes for the dance vibe.

11. Blowin’ in the Wind

Chords: G – C – D – G
Time: 4/4, folk rhythm
Tip: Use soft, flowing strums for a peaceful feel.

12. Skip to My Lou

Chords: G – C – D
Time: 2/4
Tip: Fast down-up strums capture the playful nature.

13. Bad Moon Rising

Chords: D – C – G
Time: 4/4, steady rock beat
Tip: Keep strums tight and driving for that CCR feel.

14. Peace Like a River

Chords: G – C – D
Time: 3/4
Tip: Strum gently with “down, down, up” for a calming rhythm.

15. When the Saints Go Marching In

Chords: G – C – D – G
Time: 4/4, march feel
Tip: Downstrums on each beat mimic a marching rhythm.

Tips for Success

Playing these easy songs is about progress, not perfection. Take your time and focus on smooth chord changes. If finger soreness slows you down, you may enjoy this article: Overcoming Finger Pain: Guitar Tips for Older Players. You’ll find practical ways to build comfort and strength.

Remember—you don’t need hours a day to enjoy beginner guitar. Even 15 minutes of consistent practice will take you far. And when you’re ready for more resources, visit Bob Pardue Guitar for helpful guides made for adult learners.

Final Thoughts

These 15 easy 3-chord guitar songs prove you don’t need years of training to start making music. Whether you’re playing hymns, folk classics, or rock favorites, the simple chords of G, C, and D can carry you a long way. The key is starting now, enjoying the process, and celebrating every milestone.

🎸 Want to speed up your chord learning? Grab my free PDF Beginner Guitar Chords Printable—perfect for practice at home!