Rockabilly, with its electrifying blend of rock ‘n’ roll and country, is a perfect genre for beginner guitarists looking to develop their skills. Characterized by its energetic rhythm, driving bass lines, and jangly guitars, rockabilly music is both fun to play and a great way to practice foundational techniques. From the unmistakable slap-back echo of Scotty Moore to the twangy licks of Carl Perkins, rockabilly offers a treasure trove of songs that can help any guitarist get started. Here’s a list of the top 20 rockabilly songs for beginner guitarists, handpicked to help you dive into this classic genre.
1. **”Blue Suede Shoes” – Carl Perkins**
A rockabilly standard that every guitarist should know, “Blue Suede Shoes” is a straightforward song that introduces the classic 12-bar blues progression. It’s a great song for learning shuffle rhythms and basic rockabilly licks.
2. **”That’s All Right” – Elvis Presley**
The song that launched Elvis’s career, “That’s All Right” features simple yet effective rhythm guitar parts. The strumming pattern is easy for beginners to pick up, making it a staple for any rockabilly repertoire.
3. **”Summertime Blues” – Eddie Cochran**
“Summertime Blues” is built around a few simple power chords, making it ideal for beginners. The iconic riff is repetitive and easy to learn, perfect for mastering chord changes and basic rhythm playing.
4. **”Be-Bop-A-Lula” – Gene Vincent**
This song’s laid-back groove and steady tempo make it a great entry point for beginners. It allows players to focus on timing and chord transitions, laying a solid foundation for more complex rockabilly rhythms.
5. **”Rock Around the Clock” – Bill Haley & His Comets**
An essential rock and roll classic, “Rock Around the Clock” features simple chords and a swing rhythm that’s great for learning to play in time with a shuffle beat. This song is a great introduction to lead and rhythm guitar coordination.
6. **”Mystery Train” – Elvis Presley**
“Mystery Train” offers a great introduction to the syncopated rhythms and simple yet effective lead lines characteristic of rockabilly guitar. The repetitive riff is excellent for working on timing and finger positioning.
7. **”Red Hot” – Billy Lee Riley**
“Red Hot” is a fun and energetic tune that introduces double-stops and sliding techniques. The straightforward chord progression and rhythmic pattern make it accessible for beginners looking to spice up their playing style.
8. **”Folsom Prison Blues” – Johnny Cash**
Although more on the country side, “Folsom Prison Blues” carries the spirit of rockabilly with its steady rhythm and train-like beat. It’s perfect for learning basic fingerpicking and hybrid picking techniques.
9. **”Matchbox” – Carl Perkins**
Another classic from Carl Perkins, “Matchbox” is built around simple blues licks and straightforward rhythm patterns. It’s an ideal song for practicing single-note lead lines interspersed with chord strums.
10. **”Train Kept A-Rollin'” – Johnny Burnette Trio**
A high-energy song with a driving rhythm, “Train Kept A-Rollin'” is great for beginners wanting to explore alternate picking and fast strumming techniques.
11. **”Jailhouse Rock” – Elvis Presley**
With its catchy rhythm and easy chord changes, “Jailhouse Rock” is a must-know for any beginner rockabilly guitarist. The song also introduces some basic palm muting techniques, essential for any budding rockabilly player.
12. **”Honey Don’t” – Carl Perkins**
“Honey Don’t” offers a mix of rhythm and lead guitar work that is easy to follow. It’s great for practicing alternating between bass notes and chords, a hallmark of the rockabilly style.
13. **”Twenty Flight Rock” – Eddie Cochran**
A fast-paced rockabilly tune, “Twenty Flight Rock” is great for working on quick chord changes and up-tempo rhythm playing. It’s also an excellent choice for learning basic rockabilly lead fills.
14. **”Shake, Rattle and Roll” – Big Joe Turner / Bill Haley**
An upbeat song with a strong rhythmic groove, “Shake, Rattle and Roll” is great for beginners wanting to master the shuffle beat and basic bluesy rockabilly riffs.
15. **”Great Balls of Fire” – Jerry Lee Lewis**
While more known for its piano parts, the guitar rhythm in “Great Balls of Fire” is straightforward and fun to play. It’s an excellent song for working on fast chord changes and rhythm techniques.
16. **”Roll Over Beethoven” – Chuck Berry**
Chuck Berry’s songs are a treasure trove for any aspiring rockabilly guitarist. “Roll Over Beethoven” is a great song for practicing the classic Berry riffs and developing rock ‘n’ roll rhythm chops.
17. **”Rock This Town” – Stray Cats**
Fast forward to the modern rockabilly revival with this classic from the Stray Cats. “Rock This Town” combines swing rhythms with rockabilly guitar licks, making it a fun challenge for beginners who want to take their playing to the next level.
18. **”Brand New Cadillac” – Vince Taylor**
A simple yet energetic rockabilly song that’s perfect for beginners, “Brand New Cadillac” revolves around a few basic chords and a driving rhythm.
9. **”Come On, Let’s Go” – Ritchie Valens**
A great rockabilly tune with a straightforward structure, “Come On, Let’s Go” is perfect for beginners working on their rhythm playing and basic lead fills.
20. **”Don’t Be Cruel” – Elvis Presley**
Featuring a laid-back rhythm and easy chord progression, “Don’t Be Cruel” is a fantastic song for beginner guitarists to practice their strumming and timing.
