Today I’m joined by my beautiful wife, Kristina, as we count down the 7 most popular songs to learn on guitar this year!

These songs aren’t necessarily from 2025 – most are well-loved classics – but they’ve been the most requested and played by students, both online and in-person. Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to level up your skills, these songs are not just fun to play… they’re also loaded with teachable moments that’ll help you become a better guitarist.

🎶 #6 – Don’t Look Back In Anger (Oasis)

This one has a lot going on, but the way it flows makes it surprisingly accessible. It’s your perfect introduction to more advanced chords like diminished and minor barre shapes, including the Fm chord.

We play this one every year at our holiday get-togethers – friends on piano, guitar, vocals – it’s just one of those feel-good, everybody-knows-it kind of songs.

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🎶 #5 – Linger (The Cranberries)

Kristina here! This 4-chord wonder is a go-to if you want to jam with others. The chord progression is easy enough that friends can jump in and play along, even if they’re not super experienced.

There’s also a cool fingerstyle intro if you want to impress right off the top. Once you’re into the rhythm, you can even practice your 16th-note strumming – perfect for advancing beginners.

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🎶 #4 – Can’t Help Falling In Love (Elvis Presley)

This one uses a bunch of basic chords and has a beautiful arpeggiated pattern that works great for fingerpicking practice.

It’s a great tune to have in your back pocket when someone finds out you’re learning guitar and asks, “Can you play me something?” It’s easy, recognizable, and sounds impressive.

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🎶 #3 – Creep (Radiohead)

Kristina again! This is a must-learn for anyone looking to dive into barre chords. It’s also a great candidate for practicing power chords or learning how to arpeggiate cleanly.

If you ever want to join a band or just want a gritty, emotional song to sink your teeth into – this one’s perfect.

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🎶 #2 – Wildflower (Billie Eilish)

This one’s for the modern music lovers. The jazz-inspired chords are colorful and moody, but not overwhelming – it’s just the right amount of challenge. The strumming is repetitive, so you can focus on getting those shapes right.

Even if you usually lean toward classic rock like I do, it’s smart to stay connected with newer stuff. Kristina’s a teacher, and songs like this are a great way to connect with younger students or show your own kids how cool you are.

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🎸 #1 – Hotel California (The Eagles)

No surprise here – this one is timeless. The intro alone is iconic, and the chord progression can be played with basic open chords if you use a capo, or tackled with barre chords for a challenge.

There’s so much to learn from this tune: strumming, dynamics, lead guitar… it’s a full lesson all in one song.

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Have a fun time practicing!
– James (& Kristina!)