Have you ever caught yourself humming tunes of the best 70s acoustic guitar songs, wishing you could play them on the guitar?
If so, this post is for you!
If you want to take an even deeper dive into the music from the 70s, check out Alfred’s Easy Classic Rock Guitar Songs and discover more hits from the 60s, 70s, and 80s:
And if you are looking for a Spotify playlist of these songs, we’ve got it for you:
Beginner’s Gateway: Best 70s Acoustic Guitar Songs to Start With
1. Horse with No Name by America
A Horse with No Name Guitar Tab
This song features a unique, two-chord pattern.
It’s ideal for beginners wanting to practice strumming.
The melody is instantly recognizable, making it one of the favorite 70s acoustic songs for many.
2. Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver
Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver Guitar Tab
This beloved country classic uses open chords.
It’s perfect for learning basic chord transitions.
The song’s comforting lyrics and beautiful melody have made it a timeless 70s acoustic song.
3. Knocking on Heaven’s Door by Bob Dylan
Knockin on Heaven’s Door by Bob Dylan Guitar Tab
With its simple chord progression, this song is a great starting point.
It offers the spiritual vibe and touching message that’s typical of many 70s acoustic songs.
It’s a fantastic way to begin learning strumming patterns.
4. Let It Be by The Beatles
Let It Be by The Beatles Guitar Tab
This song is a blend of simple chords and beautiful melody.
Learning it offers practice for both chord transitions and rhythm.
It stands as a reminder of The Beatles’ significant influence on 70s acoustic songs.
5. Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd
Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd Guitar Tab
This iconic track is great for beginners learning chord progression.
The intro riff might seem complex, but it’s fun to play.
The song’s timeless quality embodies the essence of 70s acoustic songs.
6. Three Little Birds by Bob Marley
Three Little Birds by Bob Marley Guitar Tab
This song is ideal for beginners with its joyful rhythm and three-chord structure.
Its message of hope resonates, making it a feel-good addition to 70s acoustic songs.
Practice your strumming and feel the groove.
7. Wild World by Cat Stevens
Wild World by Cat Stevens Guitar Tab
A perfect song to learn basic fingerpicking.
Its melodic tune and heartfelt lyrics are representative of 70s acoustic songs.
Cat Stevens’ style is a great entry into folk guitar.
8. You’ve Got a Friend by James Taylor
You’ve Got a Friend by James Taylor Guitar Tab
This song offers an introduction to more complex chords while remaining accessible.
Taylor’s smooth style makes it a pleasing choice for those exploring 70s acoustic songs.
It’s a beautiful song about friendship and support.
If you’re on a hunt for a new acoustic guitar, check out this Taylor Special-Edition Grand Auditorium Acoustic-Electric Guitar on Guitar Center:
9. Lean on Me by Bill Withers
Lean on Me by Bill Withers Guitar Tab
Using only a few chords, this song provides an excellent practice platform for beginners.
Its message of unity and compassion resonates deeply.
This is a brilliant piece among 70s acoustic songs for community singing.
10. Sundown by Gordon Lightfoot
Sundown by Gordon Lightfoot Guitar Tab
With its catchy chorus and easy-going verses, Sundown is great for learning rhythm.
Lightfoot’s storytelling makes it an engaging listen.
It’s another classic that represents the storytelling tradition of 70s acoustic songs.
11. Jolene by Dolly Parton
Jolene by Dolly Parton Guitar Tab
The simple chord progression and repetitive strumming pattern make this a great beginner’s choice.
Parton’s emotional delivery adds depth to this classic.
Jolene remains one of the most recognizable 70s acoustic songs.
12. Your Song by Elton John
Your Song by Elton John Guitar Tab
This gentle ballad offers basic chords and a memorable melody.
Elton John’s poetic lyrics are an excellent example of the songwriting style of 70s acoustic songs.
It’s a heartfelt love song for every beginner.
13. Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffett
Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffet Guitar Tab
This fun-loving tune is perfect for beginners, with its simple chords and island vibes.
Buffett’s carefree style adds a unique flavor to the landscape of 70s acoustic songs.
Enjoy playing this one at beach gatherings!
14. Ooh La La by Faces
This song’s simplicity in chords and strumming pattern offers a great starting point for beginners.
Its reflective lyrics and catchy melody are typical of many 70s acoustic songs.
This is a delightful tune to enjoy learning.
15. Tequila Sunrise by Eagles
Tequila Sunrise by Eagles Guitar Tab
This Eagles’ classic provides a gentle introduction to country rock.
Its smooth transitions and storytelling quality embody the essence of 70s acoustic songs.
It’s an excellent addition to a beginner’s repertoire.
16. Time in a Bottle by Jim Croce
Time in a Bottle by Jim Croce Guitar Tab
Time in a Bottle is a tender love song with simple fingerpicking.
It offers practice with both chords and picking patterns.
It’s an essential love ballad in the world of 70s acoustic songs.
17. Heart of Gold by Neil Young
Heart of Gold by Neil Young Guitar Tab
This song provides the right balance between chords and harmonica.
Its simple strumming pattern makes it accessible.
Neil Young’s unique voice makes it stand out among the best 70s acoustic guitar songs.
18. Peaceful Easy Feeling by Eagles
Peaceful Easy Feeling by Eagles Guitar Tab
With its calm and soothing chords, this song is perfect for relaxing strumming practice.
The Eagles’ harmonious singing adds charm to this 70s acoustic song.
This is a great choice for unwinding with your guitar.
19. Sailing by Rod Stewart
Sailing by Rod Stewart Guitar Tab
This song has a simple chord progression and a deep emotional connection.
Stewart’s raspy voice lends it an authentic touch.
It’s an unforgettable addition to the list of 70s acoustic songs.
20. Bad, Bad Leroy Brown by Jim Croce
Bad, Bad Leroy Brown by Jim Croce Guitar Tab
Bad, Bad Leroy Brown is a lively tune with an engaging narrative.
The simple chords and rhythmic patterns make it a fun learning experience.
It adds a touch of humor and character to the world of 70s acoustic songs.
Strumming Through Time: Intermediate Best 70s Acoustic Guitar Songs
21. Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd
Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd Guitar Tab
This song was a tribute to the band’s original frontman, Syd Barrett.
This song, from the album of the same name, mixes a melancholic sentiment with intricate chord transitions, demanding an intermediate touch.
22. Fire and Rain by James Taylor
Fire and Rain by James Taylor Guitar Tab
Reflecting Taylor’s struggles with fame, addiction, and the loss of a friend, this melancholic tune, with its delicate finger-picking style, resonates with emotions and technical nuances.
23. Operator by Jim Croce
Operator by Jim Croce Guitar Tab
Operator by Jim Croce is a tale of heartbreak and the yearning to reconnect.
Croce’s storytelling prowess shines here, combining a soothing melody with a captivating narrative, making it an intermediate-level delight.
24. The Boxer by Simon & Garfunkel
The Boxer by Simon and Garfunkel Guitar Tab
The song’s chorus, “lie-la-lie” speaks of a young man’s struggles and resilience in the big city.
Its intricate fingerpicking pattern and meaningful lyrics have made it a mainstay in the history of folk rock.
25. Behind Blue Eyes by The Who
Behind Blue Eyes by The Who Guitar Tab
Originally written by Pete Townshend, this song touches upon themes of loneliness and introspection.
Its chord progressions, combined with its powerful lyrics, present an intermediate challenge both in technique and expression.
26. Angie by The Rolling Stones
Angie by Rolling Stones Guitar Tab
Angie is a mysterious ballad song whose subject remains a matter of debate.
This tune offers an intricate fingerpicking pattern that captivates guitarists and listeners alike.
27. Father and Son by Cat Stevens
Father and Son by Cat Stevens Guitar Tab
This emotive track delves into the generational gap, capturing the dialogue between a father and son.
Its beautiful melody and evocative lyrics require both technical prowess and emotional depth.
28. If by Bread
If by Bread is a tender love song, this track stands out for its poetic lyrics and melodic charm.
The chord transitions and lyrical depth offer a perfect practice ground for intermediate guitarists.
29. Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
Landslide by Fleetwood Mac Guitar Tab
Written by Stevie Nicks, it’s a reflection on change and life’s fragility.
Its fingerstyle techniques and soulful lyrics make it a must-learn for those looking to delve deeper into the 70s’ acoustic sound.
30. Vincent by Don McLean
Vincent by Don McLean Guitar Tab
The song is a tribute to Vincent van Gogh and paints a musical picture of the troubled artist’s life.
McLean’s emotive voice and the song’s complex chord structures make it a challenging yet rewarding endeavor.
31. American Pie by Don McLean
American Pie by Don McLean Guitar Tab
This song is a historical recount of rock music’s evolution touches upon the “day the music died.”
Its lengthy verses and shifting chords provide a holistic learning experience.
32. Dust in the Wind by Kansas
Dust in the Wind by Kansas Guitar Tab
This song inspired by a book of Native American poetry, emphasizing life’s transitory nature.
Its timeless fingerpicking pattern is iconic and offers an intricate lesson for those advancing in their guitar journey.
33. Hotel California by The Eagles
Hotel California by The Eagles Guitar Tab
Hotel California is an enigmatic classic.
It touches upon the excesses and dark underbelly of the American dream.
While commonly played on electric, its acoustic version offers a rich blend of chords and solos.
34. Time in a Bottle by Jim Croce
Time in a Bottle by Jim Croce Guitar Tab
Written about capturing precious moments, Croce’s soft and reflective tune offers intermediate players a chance to master both rhythm and fingerpicking.
35. Crazy on You by Heart
Crazy on You by Heart Guitar Tab
Known for its iconic acoustic intro, it’s a passionate song about young love and desire.
The challenging intro and chord variations make it a fitting intermediate challenge.
36. Love the One You’re With by Stephen Stills
Love the One You’re With by Stephen Stills Tutorial
This song is a call to love and unity.
Its upbeat rhythm and catchy chorus capture the early 70s’ optimistic spirit.
The song’s chord sequences and bridges test timing and transitioning skills.
37. Going to California by Led Zeppelin
Going to California by Led Zeppelin Guitar Tab
This is a tune filled with wanderlust and longing.
Page’s delicate fingerpicking and Plant’s heartfelt vocals make it a 70s acoustic masterpiece.
38. Jolene by Dolly Parton
Jolene by Dolly Parton Guitar Tab
Dolly’s plea to the titular character over a shared love interest.
Its iconic rhythm, chord progression, and powerful narrative make it an intermediate staple.
39. Desperado by The Eagles
Desperado by The Eagles Guitar Tab
Desperado is a melancholic ballad about a hardened outlaw.
Its combination of chords and storytelling offers a deep emotional connection for the player.
40. The Needle and the Damage Done by Neil Young
The Needle and the Damage Done by Neil Young Guitar Chords
This song is a somber reflection on the devastating effects of heroin addiction.
Young’s intricate fingerstyle and raw emotion make it an essential tune for any 70s acoustic aficionado.
Strumming Through Time: Intermediate Best 70s Acoustic Guitar Songs
41. Blackbird by The Beatles
Blackbird by The Beatles Guitar Tab
Paul McCartney’s homage to the civil rights movement, this song boasts a unique fingerpicking style inspired by J.S. Bach.
Its melody and bass line played simultaneously make it a challenging but rewarding endeavor.
42. Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin
Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin Guitar Tab
Often dubbed the greatest rock song ever, its progressive structure demands precision and emotional depth.
The initial acoustic part, transitioning into an electrifying solo, offers a multifaceted experience for seasoned guitarists.
43. Bron-Yr-Aur by Led Zeppelin
Bron Yr Aur by Led Zeppelin Guitar Tab
Named after a Welsh cottage, this instrumental showcases Jimmy Page’s prowess on an alternate-tuned guitar.
Its open C6 tuning and intricate fingerpicking patterns make it a formidable challenge.
44. Annie’s Song by John Denver
Annie’s Song by John Denver Guitar Chords
This love ballad is written for his wife and requires a rapid fingerstyle technique to capture its flowing melody.
Denver’s heartfelt lyrics, combined with the complex chord structures, make it a beautiful challenge.
45. Babe, I’m Gonna Leave You by Led Zeppelin
Babe I’m Gonna Leave You by Led Zeppelin Guitar Tab
This song is a mix of soft verses and hard, driving choruses.
With its Flamenco-inspired fingerpicking patterns, this song is one of the best 70s acoustic guitar songs that demands technique and dynamic control.
46. Diary by Bread
Diar is a haunting ballad with intricate arpeggios that weave a tale of love discovered and then lost.
Mastering its delicate intricacies is a testament to the best 70s acoustic guitar songs and an advanced guitarist’s dexterity.
47. Classical Gas by Mason Williams
Classical Gas by Mason Williams Guitar Tab
This instrumental hit is a blend of classical and pop influences, demanding rapid fingerstyle and a keen sense of timing.
Its virtuosic nature has made it a rite of passage for serious guitarists.
48. Is There Anybody Out There? by Pink Floyd
Is There Anybody Out There by Oink Floyd Guitar Tab
This instrumental piece from the legendary album “The Wall” requires precision fingerpicking.
Its haunting nature and complex techniques challenge even the most advanced players.
49. Embryonic Journey by Jefferson Airplane
Embryonic Journey by Jefferson Airplane Guitar Tab
This song is an instrumental masterpiece by Jorma Kaukonen.
It showcases fingerpicking prowess.
Its intricate patterns and melodic richness make it a cornerstone for the best 70s acoustic guitar song exploration.
50. Mood for a Day by Yes
Mood for a Day by Yes Guitar Tab
Steve Howe’s Flamenco-inspired gem, this piece is both brisk and intricate.
Its tempo and complex fingerstyle patterns demand high skill and finesse.
51. Never Going Back Again by Fleetwood Mac
Never Going Back Again by Fleetwood Mac Guitar Tab
Lindsey Buckingham’s showcase of a unique fingerpicking style.
The alternating bass lines, treble licks, and alternate tuning challenge the most seasoned players.
52. Thick as a Brick by Jethro Tull
Little Martha by The Allman Brothers Band Guitar Tab
The only Allman Brothers Band track written by both Allman brothers.
This instrumental piece’s dual guitar lines and delicate harmonies make it challenging to recreate.
53. Genesis by Jorma Kaukonen
Genesis by Jorma Kaukonen Guitar Tab
Genesis is a beautiful fusion of folk and blues.
Its intricate fingerpicking, slide techniques, and profound lyrics create a mesmerizing sonic experience.
54. Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen
Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen Guitar Tab
“Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen is a groundbreaking rock opus that seamlessly blends rock, balladry, and operatic passages into one iconic track.
Released in 1975 on their “A Night at the Opera” album, Freddie Mercury’s masterpiece is renowned for its intricate harmonies, powerful guitar solos by Brian May, and its dramatic shifts in style and tone.
Often hailed as one of the greatest rock songs of all time, it remains a testament to Queen’s innovative approach to music and Mercury’s unparalleled songwriting genius.
55. Little Martha by The Allman Brothers Band
Little Martha by The Allman Brothers Band Guitar Tab
The only Allman Brothers Band track written by both Allman brothers.
This instrumental piece’s dual guitar lines and delicate harmonies make it challenging to recreate.
56. Horizons by Genesis
Horizons by Genesis Guitar Tab
A Steve Hackett instrumental that serves as an interlude in the “Foxtrot” album.
Its classical influence, combined with a rapid fingerstyle, tests both speed and precision.
57. This Charming Man by The Smiths
This Charming Man by The Smiths Guitar Tab
Johnny Marr’s jangly, intricate riffs require a deft touch and keen rhythmic sense.
While known as an electric tune, its acoustic rendition is equally challenging and captivating.
58. The Clap by Yes
This song is another Steve Howe masterpiece.
It’s a fast-paced jaunt showcasing his fingerstyle mastery.
Its upbeat tempo and complex patterns make it a joyous challenge for advanced players.
59. Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton
Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton Guitar Tab
This song is a soulful ballad born out of personal tragedy.
While not purely a 70s song, its intricate chord progressions and Clapton’s emotional depth make it a challenging piece for those looking to push boundaries.
60. The Last Steam Engine Train by Leo Kottke
The Last Steam Engine Train by Leo Kottke Guitar Tab
This fingerstyle classic blends blues, folk, and American roots music.
Kottke’s rapid picking and sliding techniques require both agility and finesse.
Best 70s Acoustic Guitar Songs: A Resonance That Never Fades
So there you have it: the best 70s acoustic guitar songs you can learn.
I hope these songs have shown you that ’70s music is a gold mine of songs to learn, whether you’re a beginner or advanced learner.
Did we miss a song that absolutely needs to be added to this list?
Then let us know in the comments below!
And if you enjoyed this post, you may like our other posts in this series on lists of songs from the 60s and 80s or the best acoustic love songs!
