Gathering around a crackling campfire with friends and a guitar is one of life’s simpleest pleasures. Picture yourself strumming the chords as everyone belts out the chorus under a starry sky. From time-honored classics to modern singalongs, a good set of campfire guitar songs can turn a regular night outdoors into a memorable experience.
As you plan your next outdoor adventure, imagine adding music to the mix. You might be wondering which tunes will really get your friends singing along. Songs that have easy-to-follow lyrics, memorable melodies and straightforward guitar lessons are usually the hits that everyone can join in on, even if they claim they’ve got no musical talent.
Hotel California – The Eagles
Described by band member Don Henley as “our interpretation of the high life in Los Angeles”, Hotel California is one of the all-time best acoustic songs in music history.
This song was recorded in 1976 and released in 1977 and is considered the Eagle’s most successful song in their career. It is in the key of Bm and a capo on the 2nd fret is used.
Stand By Me – Ben E. King
Stand By Me is a song written in 1961 by singer Ben E. King and songwriters Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. This song has had over 400 versions, including one by John Lennon, Florence And The Machine, and Tracy Chapman.
It is in the key of A and features one of the most popular chord progressions: I-vi-IV-V. You will need a capo on the 2nd fret.
Brown Eyed Girl – Van Morrison
Brown Eyed Girl, released by Van Morrison in 1967, remains a classic known for its catchy chorus and nostalgic vibe. The song reflects on past love with imagery of laughter and games in the misty morning fog. Its recognizable melody and simple lyrics make it a favorite around the campfire.
The song has a straightforward chord progression. Most of the song is played with just three chords: G, C, and D. Although the strumming pattern is pretty easy, I recommend emphasizing the downstrokes to capture the song’s rhythmic feel.
Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
“Sweet Home Alabama” is a song in the key of G and holds one of the most recognizable country-rock riffs in music history. What most people don’t know is that this song also holds a powerful message against segregation in the Southern United States.
Lead singer Ronnie Van Zant mentioned later that this song was a response to Governor George Wallace’s remarks about keeping segregation in Alabama forever.
Sweet Home Alabama Guitar Tabs
Take Me Home Country Roads – John Denver
Take Me Home Country Roads is a song that resonates with the longing for the place you belong. John Denver captures this feeling in a timeless classic that has been played on guitar around campfires for decades.
To make it easier, place a capo on the second fret, and you can play most of the song with just four chords: G, Em, D, and C. Just keep a relaxed strumming hand, and let the chords flow naturally as you guide the group in a heartwarming sing-along.
Take Me Home Country Roads Guitar Chords
Californication – Red Hot Chilli Peppers
Californication is a song by the American rock band Red Hot Chilli Peppers. It was released on their 7th studio album also named Californication and has remained one of the band’s most popular tunes.
The song talks about the dark side of Hollywood and the overall mentality of success-fame. This song is in the key of Am and no capo will be needed.
Wonderwall – Oasis
This is arguably Oasis’s most popular song of all time. “Wonderwall” was written in 1995 by the band’s lead guitarist and main songwriter Noel Gallagher.
He describes this song as “an imaginary friend who’s gonna come and save you from yourself”. “Wonderwall” is in the key of F#m and you will require a capo to perform this song with much more ease.
Wagon Wheel – Old Crow Medicine Show
Wagon Wheel is a well-known folk anthem, which was written by Bob Dylan and Ketch Sector of Old Crow Medicine Show band. It’s the tale of a hitchhiker’s journey South along the eastern coast of the USA, heading to his lover in North Carolina, with a memorable chorus that has become a sing-along staple at campfires.
The song uses the common chord progression pattern: I-V-vi-IV in the key of A major. This translates to the chords A, E, F#m, and D. However, to simplify things and not play a barre chord, make sure to put a capo on the 2nd fret and look at this pattern as if it was in the key of G major. So, the translated chords will be G, D, Em, and C.
Wish You Were Here – Pink Floyd
This song comes out of Pink Floyd’s 9th studio album, which is also titled “Wish you Were Here”. It is one of Pink Floyd’s most known and acclaimed songs and is ideal for campfire situations.
This song is in E minor and holds one of the most studied riffs in rock music. Interesting fact, the intro riff was recorded by David Gilmore with a 12-string guitar.
Wish You Were Here Guitar Tabs
Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond
Sweet Caroline is an ideal singalong song that never fails to rouse the crowd. Written by Neil Diamond in 1969, this hit song is rich with catchy sections, especially its famous “ho ho ho” which ensures your friends will sing along at the campfire. The cheery tune captures that ‘feel good’ essence that makes it an irresistible choice for an evening under the stars.
Put a capo on the 4th fret to make it easy to play. You’ll primarily use the chords G, C, D, and Em, which are perfect for beginners. A quick tip for hitting that classic folk rhythm strum that defines many campfire songs: keep your strumming hand loose.
Hey Jude – The Beatles
Hey Jude is another song from the iconic band The Beatles which as time went by, became a sing-along anthem. The song was written by Paul McCartney and was intended to be named Hey Jules.
This song was written for Julian Lennon to help him adapt to his parent’s separation. This song is in the key of F and it’s a great song to get the people singing.
Heart Of Gold – Neil Young
Heart of Gold is one of Neil Young’s most beloved tracks. Capturing a blend of folk and rock makes it a favorite to strum during campfire gatherings. Young wrote the song during a period of sickness, capturing a search for love and kindness, which resonates with many.
The song is beginner-friendly and uses just four chords: Em, D, C, and G. You’ll find it’s a great opportunity to practice your harmonica skills, too, as Neil plays it during his performances. For starters, focus on mastering the chord progression and the strumming pattern. Later on, you can try incorporating a harmonica part or giving it to a friend for a nice duet, which is perfect for the outdoors.
Free Fallin – Tom Petty
Free Fallin’ is a timeless classic by Tom Petty that perfectly captures a sense of American nostalgia. With its narrative about a girl from the San Fernando Valley, this song brings forth Tom Petty’s laid-back storytelling charm. Easy to sing along to, it’s become a staple for gatherings and effectively evokes a sing-along atmosphere around the campfire.
Put a capo on the third fret to match the original key when playing Free Fallin’. Strumming this tune involves a steady, relaxed rhythm that suits its easy-going vibe. The whole song is played with three chords: D, Dsus4, and A. Because D and Dsus4 are only one finger move apart, this song can be considered as a two-chord song, which is a great start for beginners.
Focus on the iconic chorus, where the lyrics are really simple, and then continue with the rest of the song.
Every Rose Has Its Thorn – Poison
Glam metal band Poison was one of the top leading acts in the 80s. Known for their feel-good songs and rock and roll attitude, it came to be a surprise that their only number one hit song was a power ballad named Every Rose Has Its Thorn.
This song was written by lead singer Bret Michaels at a laundromat in Dallas right after discovering his girlfriend at the time was with another man. This song is in the key of Gb and you will need to tune down your guitar one half-step: Eb-Ab-Db-Gb-Bb-Eb.
Every Rose Has Its Thorn Guitar Tabs
Good Riddance – Green Day
Good Riddance Time of Your Life by Green Day has become synonymous with farewells and goodbyes often heard at graduations and sad life events. The simple yet strong lyrics capture the bittersweet nature of moving on, which many can relate to.
When you’re playing the song, focus more on mastering the strumming pattern, as the chords are simple. The song uses the chords G, Cadd9, and D, also called 3&4 stuck, which make learning easier for beginners. For those unfamiliar with 3&4 stuck chords, it implies that your ring finger and pinky remain stationary on the same strings while you transition between them.
Good Riddance Time of Your Life Guitar Chords
Boulevard Of Broken Dreams – Green Day
Green Day became a rock powerhouse with the release of the acclaimed album American Idiot in 2004.
Boulevard Of Broken Dreams was released as their second single but rapidly became their lead song from said album. It is the second act of a two-song arc that includes their song Holiday.
Green Day described “Holiday” as a party, and “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” as the subsequent hangover. It is in the key of Fm and requires a capo on the 1st fret.
Stairway To Heaven – Led Zeppelin
Stairway To Heaven can be easily considered the most iconic song in rock and roll history and is a must in this list.
This song was written by legendary British rock band Led Zeppelin in 1971 and released on their 4th studio album Led Zeppelin IV.
It is in the key of Am and features arpeggios and strumming patterns that are great tools to develop overall work on an acoustic guitar.
Hurt – Johnny Cash
“Hurt” is a song that was originally written in 1994 by the American industrial rock band Nine Inch Nails. With the help of producer Rick Rubin, Johnny Cash released his cover in 2002 and got him commercial and critical acclaim.
His version was one of the last songs he released before his death. Johnny Cash’s version is in E minor with some modulations from A minor and is a great song to practice picking accuracy.
Zombie – The Cranberries
“Zombie” is a song by Irish alternative rock band The Cranberries. It was released in 1994 and it is a political song that speaks about “the Irish fight for independence that seems to last forever”.
It is in the key of Em and features your most basic chords. The progression is very simple as well, which will help you learn this song in no time.
Blowin’ In The Wind – Bob Dylan
American singer-songwriter and cultural icon Bob Dylan is very well known for the simplicity of his songs and the honesty of his lyrics. He is one of the fathers of folk music and all of his songs are great choices for anyone wishing to focus on their songwriting skills.
“Blowin’ in the Wind” was written in 1962 and released as a single on his album The Freewheelin’. It is in the key of G and a capo on the 7th fret will do the job for you.
Blowin’ In The Wind Guitar Tabs
Drive – Incubus
Drive a song by American rock band Incubus. It was released in 2000 for their thirds studio album Make Yourself and is their biggest hit and breakthrough single.
According to lead singer, Brandon Boyd, “The lyric is basically about fear, about being driven all your life by it and making decisions from fear”.
This song is in the key of Em and is a great one to expand your acoustic guitar skills.
Dust In The Wind – Kansas
“Dust in the Wind” is American progressive rock band Kansas’ most popular song. This song was written by band member Kerry Livgren and released on their 1977 album Point of Know Return.
It is written in the key of C and is an excellent song to develop your fingerpicking skills that is still simple in harmonic structure.
Hallelujah – Leonard Cohen
Hallelujah is a song written in 1984 by Leonard Cohen. This song has been covered by many artists and popularized by American singer-songwriter Jeff Buckley.
Hallelujah is a very easy song to learn and it’s a song people will sing along to. It is in the key of Db and a capo on the first fret is required.
Come As You Are – Nirvana
This is the acoustic version of American grunge band Nirvana’s song Come As You Are. It was performed at MTV unplugged and is one of the most popular songs they wrote.
This song is a good one to learn to do riffs on acoustic guitar, as well as strumming and is a song people will surely recognize. Tuning on this one will be different (Drop one step: D-G-C-F-A-D).
Imagine – John Lennon
Imagine can be easily considered the most well-known song that holds a powerful message about love, peace and unity. It was written in 1971 by songwriter John Lennon and it is the best-selling single of his solo career.
Lennon later said that much of the lyrical content came from his wife, Yoko Ono. This song is in the key of C and it will surely get people to sing along.
Dreams – Fleetwood Mac
Written at a very turbulent time for British-American rock band Fleetwood Mac, Dreams is one of their top hits.
Written by female singer Stevie Nicks as a form of expressing the impending end of her 8-year relationship with band member Lindsey Buckingham.
This song is in Am and only uses F-G in a constant loop. A very simple song to learn.
Chasing Cars – Snow Patrol
The most widely placed song of the 2000-2009 decade in the UK. “Chasing Cars” is Scottish-Northern Irish band Snow patrol’s most popular song.
Lead singer Gary Lightbody said in an interview with Rolling Stone that this song “is the purest love song that I’ve ever written”. “Chasing Cars” is in the key of A and a capo in the 2nd fret will be needed.
Like A Stone – Audioslave
Lead singer Chris Cornell: “It’s a song about concentrating on the afterlife you would hope for, rather than the normal monotheistic approach: You work really hard all your life to be a good person and a moral persona and fair and generous, and then you go to hell anyway.”
Like A Stone is one of American rock band Audioslave’s greatest hits.
More Than Words – Extreme
More Than Words is one of the most popular love songs ever written. Written by members of the American rock band Extreme, it features Nuno Betancourt on guitar and Gary Cherone on vocals.
This song has very simple chords and it’s easy to learn. The only thing required if you wish to play along to the original track is to tune down your guitar a half-step (Eb-Ab-Db-Gb-Bb-Eb)
Have You Ever Seen The Rain – Creedence Clearwater Revival
Have You Ever Seen The Rain is a song written by John Fogerty, band member of American roots rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival.
It was released as a single for their album Pendulum (1970) and is their most popular song up to date. It is in the key of C and has very simple chords, making this a good song to learn quickly.
House Of The Rising Sun – The Animals
“The House of the Rising Sun” is a traditional folk song made popular by British rock band The Animals, back in 1964. The song speaks about ill times in the city of New Orleans and has become one of the most popular American folk songs.
This song is in the key of Am and uses open chords, which makes it an ideal song for beginners who wish to learn popular tunes.
House Of The Rising Sun Guitar Tabs
Sittin On The Dock Of The Bay – Otis Redding
Sittin’ On The Dock of the Bay, written by soul legend Otis Redding, has a recognizable melody that sets a relaxed mood, perfect for an evening around the campfire flames. This song speaks to your longing for tranquility as it tells the story of a man sitting by the serene waterside, reflecting on life. The whistled tune towards the end of the track adds a layer of comfort, transforming your campfire into a peaceful retreat.
When playing Sittin On The Dock Of The Bay, consider a soft, easy-going strum. The song is mostly composed of simple chords: G, B, C, Bb, A, and E.
Aside from one, most of the transitions between those chords are simple. For the Bb to A transition, I recommend that instead of playing the A chord as you are used to, slide your third finger from the 3rd fret when playing the Bb chord to the 2nd fret.
Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey
Don’t Stop Believin’ started as a chorus idea I had written down and worked out at home. The song was originally inspired by something my father would say to me during my struggles in the music business in Los Angeles.
This song was written by band member Jonathan Cain at a time where he was unsure of whether he would attain success in the music industry. This song is in the key of E and no capo will be required.
Don’t Stop Believin’ Guitar Tabs
Livin’ On A Prayer – Bon Jovi
Livin’ On A Prayer is a rock and roll anthem from the 80s. It is Bon Jovi’s most known composition and is their signature song.
This song was released in 1986 and became their second charted single from their third studio album Slippery When Wet. It is in the key of Em and has a modulation to Gm in the last chorus.
Livin’ On A Prayer Guitar Tabs
Losing My Religion – R.E.M
Losing My Religion is American alternative band R.E.M’s most popular song. It was written in 1991 and garnered 7 Grammy nominations for them.
According to the band’s guitarist Peter Buck, the song came about from a practice session he had to begin learning the mandolin. Losing My Religion is in the key of Am and no capo is needed.
Losing My Religion Guitar Tabs
Africa – Toto
Written by David Paich and Jeff Pocaro (band members from American rock band Toto), Africa was released in 1982 in Toto’s fourth studio album Toto IV. Paich explained that the song is about a man’s love of a continent, Africa.
This song is in the key of B major and requires some hand strength to do barre chords. Nevertheless, it is a simple song to learn and a popular one as well.
I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing – Aerosmith
I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing is one of Aerosmith’s most known songs. It is a power ballad written by Diane Warren, a well-known songwriter who has worked with other artists such as Toni Braxton, Mary J.Blige, and Whitney Houston.
I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing was featured in the natural disaster movie Armageddon which helped them get their first number one hit in the USA. This song is in the key of D and some modal chords will happen (such as Bb).
Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen
One of Queen’s most light and upbeat songs in their repertoire. Crazy Little Thing Called Love is a song written by Freddy Mercury in 1979 and released in 1980 for their album The Game.
A curious fact is that Freddy Mercury played rhythm guitar on their live shows for this song, making it the first song he performed on guitar. This song is in D Mixolydian and there is no need for a capo.
With Or Without You – U2
Released in 1987 as the third track of Irish rock band U2’s fifth studio album, The Joshua Tree, “With Or Without You” is U2’s second most frequently covered song.
It is in the key of Bm and a capo on the 7th fret is needed.
While there are no acoustic versions from the band itself, this is a very simple song to learn and a great one to add to your repertoire.
Let It Be – The Beatles
“Let It Be” is one of the most known songs of all time. Written by legend Paul McCartney, this song speaks of going with the flow of life, making it a great song with a powerful message.
It is a very simple song to learn as well. It is in the key of C and uses all of the basic chords a beginner knows. This one is a top choice for campfire songs.
Waiting In Vain – Bob Marley
Waiting In Vain is one of the most known songs by Jamaican singer-songwriter Bob Marley. This song was recorded by himself and his band The Wailers in 1977 for their most successful album, Exodus.
It is also one of Bob Marley’s most covered songs out there. “Waiting in Vain” is in the key of Ab major and a capo on the first fret is recommended.
American Pie – Don McLean
American Pie is a song by American singer-songwriter Don McLean. It was written in 1971 and speaks about the plane crash in 1959 where rock and roll icons, Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and The Big Bopper lost their lives.
The day the music died became the unofficial name for that day thanks to this song. This song is in the key of G and no capo is needed.
High And Dry – Radiohead
High And Dry is a song written by English alternative rock band Radiohead. It was released as their first single from their second album The Bends.
Interestingly enough, songwriter Thom Yorke said later on that he was pressured by the record label to release the song, as he felt the song was a very bad one.
This song is in the key of E and features open chords, which gives you interesting sounds that draw away from the basic triads played in other songs.
Interstate Love Song – Stone Temple Pilots
Interstate Love Song is a song written by the American rock band Stone Temple Pilots. It was released in 1994 for their second studio album Purple and is one of their most popular songs.
Lead singer Scott Weiland revealed the lyrics of the song talk about honesty, lack of honesty, and my relationship with heroin. Interstate Love Song is in the key of C#m and has some interesting chords that are still fairly easy to play, making this a great song to expand your harmonic knowledge.
I’m Yours – Jason Mraz
I’m Yours became an instant hit when American singer-songwriter Jason Mraz released it in 2008. It is one of the most popular songs people sing in campfire situations and it’s a fairly easy song.
It is in the key of B and a capo on the 4th fret is required. It has one of the most used progressions in pop music (I-V-vi-IV), along with some other chords to make it more interesting.
Yesterday – The Beatles
Yesterday is a song by the British band, The Beatles. The Beatles are one of the most recognized brands of all time and have over 20 number one hits in their repertoire.
This song was written by Paul McCartney and credited to both him and John Lennon. It is in the key of F and no capo is required.
I Will Follow You Into The Dark – Death Cab For Cutie
“I Will Follow You into the Dark” is a song released in 2005 by indie rock band Death Cab for Cutie. It was their third single from their fifth album Plans.
Funnily enough, this song was their lowest-charted single to that point but as time went by, it became their most selling single of all time. This song is a simple, yet beautiful arrangement from lead singer and guitarist Ben Gibbard.
It is on the key of Am and a capo on the 5th fret will be used.
Light My Fire – The Doors
Light My Fire is a song by American rock powerhouse The Doors. It was recorded in 1966 and released a year after. This song was mostly written by guitarist Robby Krieger, along with some help from lead singer Jim Morrison.
The album version is actually 7 minutes long but due to its popularity, a radio-friendly version was made. It is in the key of G and uses some modulation.
What’s Up? – 4 Non Blondes
“What’s Up?” is a song written by all-female American rock group 4 Non Blondes. This song was released in 1992 on their debut album and was featured as their second single.
The song was meant to be named “What’s Going On?”, but they decided on using a different title to avoid confusion with Marvin Gaye’s song “What’s Goin On”. This one is in the key of A and you will need a capo on the 2nd fret.
Skinny Love – Bon Iver
American indie-folk band, Bon Iver is characterized by simple acoustic rhythms and haunting vocals. Skinny Love is one of their most popular songs and it is an easy one to learn.
It was the first single released from Bon Iver’s 2007 début album For Emma, Forever Ago. It is in the key of Am and uses some open chords that have an interesting sound to them. This makes the song easy yet intricate sounding.
Pumped Up Kicks – Foster The People
Pumped Up Kicks is the song that gave American indie pop band Foster the People worldwide recognition. This song is not short of controversy, as it talks about a school shooting from the perspective of the shooter.
This subject was gaining traction in the United States and became a catalyst for a more open conversation about the sad issue in America.
This acoustic version is in the key of Bm and a capo in the 7th fret will be required.
Conclusion
With your guitar in hand and a circle of friends, you’ve got the perfect recipe for a memorable night. The strums of your favorite hits can turn any gathering into a singalong spectacle. From the timeless melodies of “Sweet Home Alabama” to the haunting chords of Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl,” your campfire playlist holds the power to unite and ignite joy.
Remember, it’s not about perfect performance; it’s about the shared experience. Chords can be simple, and singing can be off-key, but laughter and the warmth of the fire, and maybe a beer or two, are what truly matter. Embrace the night, let loose, and let the music create those moments you’ll all look back and remember.
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Brilliant picks
Thanks 🙂
Thank you