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Top 20 Classic Rock Songs That Every Guitarist Should Know

Updated: Mar 15, 2023

If you enjoy classic rock music and are learning to play the guitar, you should learn some of the genre's most famous songs. These classic rock songs not only demonstrate the versatility and range of the guitar, but also serve as excellent practice material for beginning and intermediate guitarists. Here are twenty classic rock songs that every guitarist should be familiar with:


1. Led Zeppelin's "Stairway to Heaven": With its famous fingerpicked intro, soaring solos, and complex chord changes, this epic ballad is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitar songs of all time.


2. Guns N' Roses' "Sweet Child o' Mine": This song contains one of the most well-known guitar riffs in rock history, as well as some impressive solos that highlight Slash's technical abilities.


3. Deep Purple's "Smoke on the Water": With its simple but powerful riff and catchy melody, this song is a guitar classic.


4. AC/DC’s "Back in Black": This song contains one of rock's most memorable guitar riffs, as well as some killer solos that showcase Angus Young's raw energy and virtuosity.


5. The Eagles' "Hotel California": This iconic song has a beautiful acoustic intro, haunting chord progressions, and intricate harmonies, making it an excellent choice for intermediate guitarists.


6. Jimi Hendrix's "Purple Haze": With its fuzzed-out chords, and fills, this psychedelic classic features some of Hendrix's most mind-bending guitar work.


7. Led Zeppelin's "Black Dog" has a powerful, riff-driven sound that's ideal for practicing alternate picking hammer-ons and pull-offs


8. Cream's "Sunshine of Your Love": With its simple but effective riff and Clapton's soulful, expressive playing, this song is a blues-rock classic.


9. Derek and the Dominos' "Layla": this song is a showcase for Eric Clapton's genius playing.


10. Led Zeppelin’s "Whole Lotta Love": this song epitomizes the power and energy of classic rock.


11. Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Free Bird": A beautiful, heartfelt guitar solo builds to an emotional climax in this song, making it a must-learn for any guitarist.


12. Dire Straits’ "Sultans of Swing": Classic rock staple!!!


13. Ozzy Osbourne's "Crazy Train": With its fast, technical solos, powerful riffs, and heavy use of harmonics, this song is a guitar showcase.


14. Pink Floyd's "Comfortably Numb": This song features David Gilmour's signature expressive playing, with soaring solos and emotive bends.


15. Elvis Presley's "Jailhouse Rock": With its driving rhythm and Chuck Berry-style licks, this song has a classic rock and roll guitar sound.


16. "Iron Man" by Black Sabbath: This song has a heavy, sludgy feel to it.


17. Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody": This iconic song features a variety of guitar styles, ranging from the ballad-like opening to the hard rock section in the middle, making it an excellent choice for practicing various techniques.


18. The Beatles' "A Hard Day's Night": This song features one of rock history's most recognizable opening riff, and it's great even 60 years after it was born.


19. Blue Oyster Cult's "Don't Fear the Reaper": This song features a haunting, melodic guitar riff and a memorable solo, both of which highlight the band's distinct sound and style.


20. “While My Guitar Gently Weeps" by The Beatles: This song, written by George Harrison, features a beautiful, melancholic melody and some stunning guitar work, including a solo by Eric Clapton.


I believe that learning songs is an essential part of any guitarist's journey. Songs not only provide excellent practice material, but they also inspire and connect us to the rich history of rock music. By mastering these classic songs, you will not only improve your playing, but you will also gain a greater appreciation for the art and craft of guitar playing.


Guy Guitar Lessons is the place to go for expert guidance and personalized instruction in learning these classic rock songs. We provide in-person and online lessons tailored to your specific goals and interests, whether you're a beginner or an intermediate player looking to advance your skills.


So, why delay? Enroll in Guy Guitar Lessons today and begin learning the classic rock songs that have inspired generations of guitarists!

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