Pop Guitar
Pop songs might not scream "guitar music," but many of the biggest pop hits have iconic guitar parts. From Michael Jackson's funk-driven rhythms to Ed Sheeran's loop-pedal acoustic work, pop guitar is all about serving the song.
These are great songs for acoustic players, singer-guitarists and anyone who wants to learn songs that everyone knows.
Songs to Start With
Adele 8
Alan Walker 6
Benson Boone 1
Bruno Mars 3
Coffin Dance 1
Jason Paige 1
Lady Gaga 6
Michael Jackson 13
- 1 10 Great Riffs TAB
- 2 Beat It TAB 1982
- 3 Beat It - Complete Solo LESSON 1982
- 4 Beat It - Rhythm Guitar Parts LESSON 1983
- 5 Beat It Pt.1 - Rhythm Guitar Parts LESSON 1983
- 6 Beat It Pt.2 - Complete Solo LESSON 1983
- 7 Billie Jean LESSON 1983
- 8 Black or White LESSON 1991
- 9 Dirty Diana LESSON 1987
- 10 Give In To Me LESSON 1993
- 11 Rock With You LESSON 1979
- 12 Smooth Criminal COVER 1987
- 13 Thriller LESSON 1982
Michael Sembello 1
Michel Sardou 1
Prince 4
Serge Gainsbourg 2
The Chainsmokers & Coldplay 1
Wilson Phillips 1
Guitar in Pop Music
Pop guitar is about economy. Every note and strum serves the song. You'll practice clean chord transitions, rhythmic precision and tasteful embellishments. Many pop hits use just 4 chords, but playing them well, with the right dynamics and groove, is harder than it sounds.
Ed Sheeran proved that a single acoustic guitar can fill a stadium. John Lennon wrote some of the most recognized songs in history with simple chord progressions. Learning pop songs is one of the fastest ways to build confidence and have fun on guitar.
Try Pop Rock or Folk Rock for more guitar-forward songs in a similar style.