Learning guitar doesn’t have to take weeks before you feel like you’re making music. In fact, you can play your very first song on guitar in just one lesson—and that quick win can be the motivation you need to keep going.
If you’re a total beginner looking for fast results, this guide will walk you through how to play a simple, real song using just a few easy chords and a basic strumming pattern. Let’s make your first lesson a success!
Step 1: Get Set Up for Success
Before we jump into playing, make sure you have:
- A tuned guitar (use a free tuning app like GuitarTuna or Fender Tune)
- A comfortable chair (with no arms)
- A pick (optional but helpful for beginners)
- A little patience and a sense of fun 😄
Pro Tip: If you’re in Lakeway, Bee Cave, or Spicewood and need help tuning or setting up your guitar, reach out for a quick setup session.
Step 2: Learn 3 Easy Chords
We’re going to use just three basic chords that are beginner-friendly:
G Major
E |---3---
B |---0---
G |---0---
D |---0---
A |---2---
E |---3---C Major
E |---0---
B |---1---
G |---0---
D |---2---
A |---3---
E |-------D Major
E |---2---
B |---3---
G |---2---
D |---0---
A |-------
E |-------These chords are used in tons of popular songs and only take a little finger stretching to get started. Practice switching between them slowly—don’t worry about speed just yet.
Search Tip: Search “easy G C D chord shapes for beginners” to find helpful chord charts and videos.
Step 3: Use a Simple Strumming Pattern
You don’t need anything fancy—start with this super basic strumming pattern:
Down – Down – Down – Down (1 strum per beat)
Strum slowly and steadily. Focus on keeping your rhythm even. Once you’re comfortable, you can try a more natural “Down – Down-Up – Up-Down-Up” groove later.
Step 4: Put It All Together with a Real Song
One of the easiest songs to play with G, C, and D chords is “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley. Here’s the basic chord progression:
Verse/Chorus: G – C – D – C (repeat)
Play each chord for 4 strums, and just sing or hum along. You’ll be surprised how quickly it starts to sound like a song!
Other beginner songs with G, C, and D:
- “Leaving on a Jet Plane” – John Denver
- “Sweet Home Alabama” – Lynyrd Skynyrd (uses a similar feel)
- “You Are My Sunshine” – Traditional
Step 5: Celebrate Your First Win!
You just played your first song on guitar—congrats! It may not be perfect, but it’s real music. That feeling of accomplishment is the spark that keeps guitar students motivated.
Next Steps:
- Practice switching between those three chords smoothly
- Try singing while you play
- Learn a second song using the same chords
Keep It Simple, Keep It Fun
Starting guitar doesn’t have to be complicated. With just three chords, a steady rhythm, and a little patience, you can play your first song in one lesson.
Want to learn more songs, improve your skills, and have fun while doing it? I offer beginner-friendly guitar lessons in Lakeway, Bee Cave, and Spicewood designed to help you build confidence and play real music from day one. Let’s get started today!