Choosing the Right Song for Simultaneous Singing and Guitar
Music is a profound form of communication, and choosing the right song to practice singing and playing guitar can enhance your experience and make the process more enjoyable. This article provides guidance on selecting songs that align with your passion and intended message, making the journey to becoming a better singer and guitarist both meaningful and fulfilling.
What Makes a Good Song for Simultaneous Singing and Guitar?
When selecting a song to practice singing and playing the guitar, consider songs that have powerful and meaningful lyrics that resonate with you. These songs often serve as "anthems" or have a significant impact on listeners, making the act of singing and playing become a form of communication rather than just entertainment. Some examples of such songs include:
"At Seventeen" by Janis Joplin – Known for its poignant lyrics and emotive delivery. "We Shall Overcome" – A powerful anthem for social justice and change. "Imagine A Change is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke – A heartfelt song about the changing world. "Amazing Grace" - A timeless hymn of hope and redemption. "Sunday Bloody Sunday" by U2 – A song of conflict and resistance. "We’re Not Gonna Take It" – A punk rock anthem for standing up for yourself. "Blowing in the Wind" – A question to society, encouraging reflection and change. "Please Don’t Kill My Child" – Bob Dylan’s plea to end war and violence.Recommended Songs for Beginners
1. Anyone Else but You by The Moldy Peaches
For those new to singing and playing guitar, “Anyone Else but You” by The Moldy Peaches is an excellent choice. The song features only two chords that are easy to switch between, and the vocals and guitar strumming pattern in the chorus are almost identical. This simplicity makes it an ideal song for beginners to practice both simultaneously.
Chordify Link (not 100% accurate, but has some parts really close and uses the right chords for the most part)
2. Fisherman’s Blues by Waterways
The F chord is essential for any beginner guitarist, and “Fisherman’s Blues” by Waterways is an excellent song to practice this chord. Learning to play the F chord up and down the fretboard teaches you to move between similar chord shapes, making it easier to play any major chord with a single shape.
3. In Vein by Storm the Sky
Acoustic songs often have simple chord progressions, making them great for beginners. “In Vein” by Storm the Sky is a perfect example. The song has a straightforward structure with one chord per line, which is easy to follow and practice. Here is a link to the Chordify version that includes approximate chord progressions.
4. Faint by Linkin Park
For songs with simple quarter note or eight note patterns in the rhythm guitar, Faint by Linkin Park is a great choice. While the lead guitar parts may be more complex, you can still focus on the rhythm guitar. Watch the video at 4yagt2m30s to see an example of the simple rhythm pattern used in the song.
Final Thoughts
Remember, the key to successful singing and guitar playing is not just technical skill but also emotional and communicative strength. Choose a song that speaks to your passion and allows you to share your message through music. Whether it's a social issue, personal experience, or a simple desire to inspire change, the right song can be the foundation of your musical journey.