If you’re just starting out on your blues guitar journey, you might be looking for some songs to build your skills and dive deeper into the genre. The beauty of the blues lies in its simplicity, emotion, and the way it resonates with both players and listeners alike. As you learn, these 50 blues songs will not only help you master the essential techniques but also give you a solid foundation in the rich history and culture of the blues.

1. Blues for Absolute Beginners

These songs are perfect for beginners who are just getting started with the blues. They typically have simple chord progressions and repetitive patterns that allow you to focus on rhythm and basic technique.

  1. “Mannish Boy” by Muddy Waters
  2. “Before You Accuse Me” by Bo Diddley/Eric Clapton
  3. “Hoochie Coochie Man” by Muddy Waters
  4. “Boom Boom” by John Lee Hooker
  5. “Key to the Highway” by Big Bill Broonzy/Eric Clapton
  6. “I’m Tore Down” by Freddie King
  7. “Sweet Home Chicago” by Robert Johnson
  8. “Smokestack Lightning” by Howlin’ Wolf
  9. “Stormy Monday” by T-Bone Walker
  10. “Cross Road Blues” by Robert Johnson/Cream

2. Classic 12-Bar Blues Songs

The 12-bar blues is the foundation of many blues songs. These tracks will help you get comfortable with this classic structure, which is essential for any aspiring blues guitarist.

  1. “Pride and Joy” by Stevie Ray Vaughan
  2. “Dust My Broom” by Elmore James
  3. “The Thrill is Gone” by B.B. King
  4. “Born Under a Bad Sign” by Albert King
  5. “Cocaine Blues” by Johnny Cash
  6. “Bright Lights, Big City” by Jimmy Reed
  7. “I Can’t Quit You Baby” by Otis Rush
  8. “You Shook Me” by Muddy Waters/Willie Dixon
  9. “The Sky is Crying” by Elmore James
  10. “Ain’t Nobody’s Business” by Freddie King

3. Essential Blues Riffs and Licks

These songs are ideal for working on your riffing and lead playing. The riffs are iconic, often simple but powerful, and they’ll give you a solid introduction to blues soloing.

  1. “Sunshine of Your Love” by Cream
  2. “Red House” by Jimi Hendrix
  3. “Roadhouse Blues” by The Doors
  4. “My Babe” by Little Walter
  5. “Messin’ with the Kid” by Junior Wells
  6. “The Stumble” by Freddie King
  7. “Got My Mojo Working” by Muddy Waters
  8. “I’m a Man” by Bo Diddley
  9. “Rollin’ and Tumblin'” by Muddy Waters
  10. “T-Bone Shuffle” by T-Bone Walker

4. Slow Blues Essentials

Slow blues songs are great for working on your phrasing and emotional expression. These tracks will challenge you to make each note count, focusing on feel and dynamics.

  1. “Have You Ever Loved a Woman” by Freddie King/Eric Clapton
  2. “Need Your Love So Bad” by Fleetwood Mac
  3. “Double Trouble” by Otis Rush
  4. “Five Long Years” by Buddy Guy
  5. “Texas Flood” by Stevie Ray Vaughan
  6. “Help Me” by Sonny Boy Williamson
  7. “As the Years Go Passing By” by Albert King
  8. “I’d Rather Go Blind” by Etta James
  9. “Blues Before Sunrise” by Elmore James
  10. “Little Wing” by Jimi Hendrix

5. Intermediate Blues Songs

Once you’ve mastered the basics, these songs will help you develop more advanced techniques like bends, slides, and more complex rhythms. They’re perfect for guitarists looking to take their playing to the next level.

  1. “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” by Jimi Hendrix
  2. “Hide Away” by Freddie King
  3. “La Grange” by ZZ Top
  4. “Statesboro Blues” by The Allman Brothers Band
  5. “Going Down” by Freddie King
  6. “Cold Shot” by Stevie Ray Vaughan
  7. “Further on Up the Road” by Eric Clapton
  8. “Bad to the Bone” by George Thorogood
  9. “Still Got the Blues” by Gary Moore
  10. “Rude Mood” by Stevie Ray Vaughan