Have you ever wondered why the best 80s acoustic guitar songs never seem to lose their charm?
Why do they strike a chord within us, reminding us of simpler times, and why do they remain a staple in the repertoire of guitarists, whether a budding beginner, an eager intermediate, or a seasoned pro?
Well, you’re not alone!
They’re like a cherished old friend, familiar and comforting, transporting us back to the vibrant musical landscape of the 80s—a decade that genuinely gave acoustic guitar music a new dimension.
And guess what?
They still sound as fresh and exciting as the day we tried strumming it!
So, if you’re like me, a die-hard fan of 80s acoustic guitar tunes, or you’re just dipping your toes into this fantastic era, you’re in for a treat.
We’ve scoured the records of music history to hand-pick 60 of the best 80s acoustic guitar songs.
And we’re talking about songs that tug at your heartstrings, make your foot tap and your fingers itch to recreate those captivating melodies on your own six strings.
Also, if you want to take an even deeper dive into guitar music from the 80s, you may want to check out this book:
And if you are looking for a Spotify playlist of these songs, we’ve got it for you:
Top 20 Best 80s Acoustic Guitar Songs for Beginners
1. “Dust in the Wind” by Kansas
“Dust in the Wind” by Kansas guitar tab
This beautiful acoustic ballad is an easy guitar song and a must-learn for beginner guitarists.
Its fingerpicking pattern and soothing melody make it a great song to practice your technique and express emotions through your playing.
2. “Every Breath You Take” by The Police
“Every Breath You Take” by The Police guitar tab
Sting’s heartfelt vocals and simple, repetitive guitar rhythm make this a delightful pick for beginners.
The song is a masterclass in creating a rich soundscape with minimal elements.
3. “Wanted Dead or Alive” by Bon Jovi
“Wanted Dead or Alive” by Bon Jovi guitar tab
With its iconic opening guitar riff, this song offers beginners a fun way to practice chord transitions.
Plus, you’ll feel like a rockstar every time you play it!
4. “Patience” by Guns N’ Roses
“Patience” by Guns N’ Roses guitar tab
This melodic ballad perfectly introduces fingerpicking.
Its beautiful melody and the acoustic guitar’s richness make it a great 80s classic for beginners.
5. “The One I Love” by R.E.M.
“The One I Love” by R.E.M. guitar tab
Features a catchy, four-chord progression.
This song is fantastic for beginners to practice strumming and rhythm skills.
Plus, who can resist the charm of R.E.M.’s alternative rock?
6. “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley
“Redemption Song” by Bob Marley guitar tab
This timeless song is straightforward yet captivating. It’s an excellent choice for beginners keen on playing music that moves the soul.
7. “Love Will Tear Us Apart” by Joy Division
“Love Will Tear Us Apart” by Joy Division guitar tab
This post-punk classic offers a different flavor of the 80s with its distinct guitar work.
It’s a simple yet engaging song to learn.
8. “Talkin’ Bout a Revolution” by Tracy Chapman
“Talkin’ Bout a Revolution” by Tracy Chapman guitar tab
This is a beautiful song with a powerful message.
Chapman’s soulful folk-rock hit is perfect for beginners looking to develop fingerpicking skills.
9. “More Than Words” by Extreme
“More Than Words” by Extreme guitar tab
This is an iconic acoustic ballad from the 80s that allows beginners to practice chord changes while enjoying its beautiful melody.
10. “About A Girl” by Nirvana
“About A Girl” by Nirvana guitar tab
Released in the late 80s, this is a simple song with a catchy rhythm, ideal for beginners to play.
Kurt Cobain’s raw energy is infectious!
11. “Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan
“Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan guitar tab
This one is a folk classic with simple chords and meaningful lyrics, this song is perfect for beginners to practice strumming and singing along.
12. “Country Roads” by John Denver
“Country Roads” by John Denver guitar tab
This is a feel-good anthem adored by audiences of all ages. This song features straightforward chords and a memorable melody.
13. “Stand by Me” by Ben E. King
“Stand by Me” by Ben E. King guitar tab
This timeless classic offers an excellent opportunity for beginners to practice their chord transitions and learn a soulful melody.
14. “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan
“Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan guitar tab
With its iconic chord progression and passionate lyrics, this song is a must-learn for any beginner looking to expand their repertoire.
15. “Wonderful Tonight” by Eric Clapton
“Wonderful Tonight” by Eric Clapton guitar tab
This beautiful ballad showcases Clapton’s melodic guitar work and allows beginners to practice fingerpicking.
16. “Hey Jude” by The Beatles
“Hey Jude” by The Beatles guitar tab
A timeless Beatles classic, this song is beginner-friendly and offers a chance to practice strumming patterns and sing along with the iconic “na-na-na” section.
17. “Horse With No Name” by America
“Horse With No Name” by America guitar tab
This song’s repetitive chord progression and soothing melody make it an excellent choice for beginners to practice their strumming technique.
18. “Mrs. Robinson” by Simon & Garfunkel
“Mrs. Robinson” by Simon & Garfunkel guitar tab
With its catchy riff and storytelling lyrics, this song is a classic choice for beginner guitarists, offering a chance to practice fingerpicking and chord changes.
19. “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” by Creedence Clearwater Revival
“Have You Ever Seen the Rain” by Creedence Clearwater Revival guitar tab
This folk-rock gem features a straightforward chord progression and is an excellent song for beginners to develop strumming skills.
20. “Blackbird” by The Beatles
“Blackbird” by The Beatles guitar tab
This intricate yet beautiful song showcases an interesting fingerpicking technique and offers a rewarding challenge for beginners looking to expand their skills.
Best 80s Acoustic Guitar Songs for Intermediate Players
21. “Hotel California” by Eagles
“Hotel California” by Eagles guitar tab
The iconic guitar intro, haunting chord progression, and soulful solos make this song a must-learn for any intermediate player.
Don Felder and Joe Walsh’s guitar work on this track is legendary.
22. “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton
“Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton guitar tab
Clapton’s emotional masterpiece features beautiful fingerpicking and heartfelt lyrics.
It’s a song that truly showcases the power of the acoustic guitar.
23. “Time in a Bottle” by Jim Croce
“Time in a Bottle” by Jim Croce guitar tab
Croce’s gentle ballad is a delightful blend of fingerpicking and heartfelt storytelling.
Its melodic simplicity will transport you back in time.
24. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman
“Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman guitar tab
With its rhythmic strumming and socially poignant lyrics, this song allows intermediate players to showcase their skills while capturing the essence of the 80s folk-rock movement.
25. “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles
“Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles guitar tab
George Harrison’s uplifting masterpiece is perfect for intermediate players to explore melodic fingerpicking and bright chord progressions.
It’s a ray of sunshine on your fingertips.
26. “Black” by Pearl Jam
“Black” by Pearl Jam guitar tab
This grunge anthem translates exceptionally to acoustic guitar.
Its hauntingly beautiful melody and introspective lyrics provide a captivating experience for intermediate players.
27. “Fire and Rain” by James Taylor
“Fire and Rain” by James Taylor guitar tab
Taylor’s soulful ballad combines intricate fingerpicking with introspective lyrics, showcasing the raw emotion that can be conveyed through the acoustic guitar.
28. “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac
“Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac guitar tab
Stevie Nicks’s introspective composition features delicate fingerpicking and poignant lyrics, making it a beautiful addition to any intermediate player’s repertoire.
29. “The Boxer” by Simon & Garfunkel
“The Boxer” by Simon & Garfunkel guitar tab
This folk gem tells a captivating story through intricate finger-picking patterns and heartfelt lyrics.
It’s a valid showcase of Simon & Garfunkel’s musical brilliance.
30. “Yesterday” by The Beatles
“Yesterday” by The Beatles guitar tab
This timeless classic offers a chance for intermediate players to grow in the art of fingerstyle playing.
Its memorable melody and simple yet powerful chord progressions are great practice.
31. “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd
“Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd guitar tab
This emotional masterpiece combines poignant lyrics with atmospheric guitar work.
Intermediate players can dive into the song’s intricate picking and soaring solos.
32. “Don’t Think Twice; It’s All Right” by Bob Dylan
“Don’t Think Twice; It’s All Right” by Bob Dylan guitar tab
Dylan’s folk anthem presents an opportunity for intermediate players to delve into the world of fingerpicking while immersing themselves in storytelling.
33. “I Will Remember You” by Sarah McLachlan
“I Will Remember You” by Sarah McLachlan guitar tab
McLachlan’s heartfelt ballad allows intermediate players to explore melodic playing and delicate chord progressions.
It’s a song that tugs at the heartstrings.
34. “Behind Blue Eyes” by The Who
“Behind Blue Eyes” by The Who guitar tab
This introspective rock ballad combines powerful strumming with intricate sections, allowing intermediate players to channel their inner rockstar.
35. “Nothing Else Matters” by Metallica
“Nothing Else Matters” by Metallica guitar tab
This acoustic gem showcases Metallica’s softer side.
Intermediate players can challenge themselves with the song’s fingerpicking patterns and explore the depths of its melodic beauty.
36. “Free Fallin'” by Tom Petty
“Free Fallin'” by Tom Petty guitar tab
Petty’s timeless hit features a catchy rhythm and a memorable chord progression that intermediate players can master while capturing the essence of the 80s.
37. “Angie” by The Rolling Stones
“Angie” by The Rolling Stones guitar tab
This acoustic-driven ballad presents an opportunity for intermediate players to explore intricate arpeggios and create a delicate balance of rhythm and melody.
38. “Losing My Religion” by R.E.M.
“Losing My Religion” by R.E.M. guitar tab
With its captivating mandolin-inspired guitar parts, this alternative rock classic offers a unique challenge for intermediate players.
It’s a song that never fails to captivate audiences.
39. “Sister Golden Hair” by America
“Sister Golden Hair” by America guitar tab
This folk-rock anthem features a catchy guitar riff and smooth chord progressions, making it a perfect addition to an intermediate player’s repertoire.
40. “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” by Queen
“Crazy Little Thing Called Love” by Queen guitar tab
This upbeat rockabilly-inspired song is a fun choice for intermediate players, offering a chance to practice lively strumming patterns and enjoy Freddie Mercury’s infectious energy.
Best 80s Acoustic Guitar Songs for Advanced Players
41. “Classical Gas” by Mason Williams
“Classical Gas” by Mason Williams guitar tab
This instrumental masterpiece combines classical influences with intricate fingerpicking and fast-paced sections, making it an actual test of advanced guitar skills.
42. “Neon” by John Mayer
“Neon” by John Mayer guitar tab
Known for its challenging fret-hand tapping technique, this instrumental gem showcases Mayer’s virtuosity and creativity.
Advanced players will enjoy the intricate patterns and melodic beauty of this song.
43. “Dee” by Randy Rhoads
“Dee” by Randy Rhoads guitar tab
A beautiful acoustic instrumental by the late Randy Rhoads, this song highlights his intricate fingerpicking and classical guitar influences.
It’s a testament to Rhoads’ skill and creativity.
44. “The Dance” by Michael Hedges
“The Dance” by Michael Hedges guitar tab
Michael Hedges was a master of innovative guitar techniques, and “The Dance” showcases his percussive playing style and complex chord voicings.
Advanced players will appreciate the unique soundscape this song offers.
45. “Embryonic Journey” by Jefferson Airplane
“Embryonic Journey” by Jefferson Airplane guitar tab
This instrumental track by Jorma Kaukonen features intricate fingerpicking and a pleasant journey that takes advanced players on a captivating ride.
It’s a proper acoustic guitar gem.
46. “Don’t Cry” by Guns N’ Roses
“Don’t Cry” by Guns N’ Roses guitar tab
This acoustic ballad showcases the versatility of Guns N’ Roses.
Advanced players can tackle the challenging fingerpicking and explore the emotional depth of this iconic song.
47. “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” by The Police
“Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” by The Police guitar tab
While commonly known as a pop-rock hit, the acoustic version of this song features intricate picking patterns and advanced chord voicings.
Sting’s songwriting brilliance shines through.
48. “Drive” by Incubus
This alternative rock ballad offers advanced players an opportunity to showcase their fingerpicking skills and delve into the intricate guitar work that adds depth to the song.
49. “Shape of My Heart” by Sting
“Shape of My Heart” by Sting guitar tab
This introspective acoustic gem features complex chord progressions and intricate picking patterns.
Advanced players can embrace the emotional depth and technical challenges this song presents.
50. “Big Love” by Lindsey Buckingham
“Big Love” by Lindsey Buckingham guitar tab
This intricate acoustic track fully displays Buckingham’s percussive fingerstyle technique.
Advanced players will revel in the rhythmic complexities and mesmerizing patterns.
51. “Little Martha” by The Allman Brothers Band
“Little Martha” by The Allman Brothers Band guitar tab
This instrumental masterpiece showcases intricate slide guitar work and melodic lines.
Advanced players will find joy in exploring the nuances of this beautiful piece.
52. “Rylynn” by Andy McKee
![Andy McKee - Rylynn Guitar Lesson #1 [WITH ANDY]](https://studentofguitar.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2F-qeF90XS3tg%2F0.jpg)
“Rylynn” by Andy McKee guitar tab
This mesmerizing instrumental showcases McKee’s unique percussive fingerstyle technique.
Advanced players will find themselves captivated by this composition’s complex patterns and sheer beauty.
53. “Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne
“Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne guitar tab
54. “Little Wing” by Stevie Ray Vaughan
“Little Wing” by Stevie Ray Vaughan guitar tab
Vaughan’s bluesy rendition of Jimi Hendrix’s classic showcases his exceptional guitar skills.
Advanced players will enjoy delving into the song’s complex bends and expressive phrasing.
55. “The Rain Song” by Led Zeppelin
“The Rain Song” by Led Zeppelin guitar tab
This epic ballad features intricate acoustic guitar layers and dynamic shifts.
Advanced players can explore the song’s diverse sections and immerse themselves in its atmospheric beauty.
56. “The Boys of Summer” by Don Henley
“The Boys of Summer” by Don Henley guitar tab
This iconic 80s hit features a memorable acoustic riff and a catchy chorus.
Advanced players can dive into the song’s intricate chord voicings and capture its nostalgic essence.
57. “Roundabout” by Yes
“Roundabout” by Yes guitar tab
This progressive rock masterpiece showcases intricate guitar work and complex time signatures.
Advanced players can embark on a musical journey that pushes the boundaries of their skills and creativity.
58. “End Of The Line” by The Traveling Wilburys
“End Of The Line” by The Traveling Wilburys guitar tab
A light-hearted tune with an upbeat rhythm, this is a great song to get the hang of rhythmic strumming patterns and chord changes
59. “The Flame” by Cheap Trick
“The Flame” by Cheap Trick guitar tab
This power ballad is an excellent song to learn as it introduces open and barre chords with a straightforward strumming pattern.
60. “Heaven” by Bryan Adams
“Heaven” by Bryan Adams guitar tab
A heartfelt ballad known for its melodic chorus, “Heaven” is a great song to learn for its chord transitions and strumming patterns.
Best 80s Acoustic Guitar Songs To Improve Your Guitar Skills
Now, you might be wondering how to make the most out of these songs to enhance your guitar skills.
Here are some tips to help you effectively learn and improve through these iconic tunes:
Listen and Study
Before diving into playing the songs, take the time to listen and study the original recordings.
Start Slowly
It’s essential to start practicing the songs comfortably.
Focus on accuracy and proper technique rather than speed.
Slow and deliberate practice allows for better control and muscle memory development, setting a solid foundation for your progress.
And when you feel comfortable playing slowly, you can always speed it up!
Break it Down
Complex songs can be overwhelming, so breaking them down into smaller sections can be helpful.
Practice each section separately, ensuring you grasp the chords, melodies, and rhythms well before moving on.
Then, gradually piece the sections together to play the entire song.
Use YouTube Tutorials and Guitar Tabs
Take advantage of the available YouTube tutorials and guitar tabs for the listed songs.
These resources can provide valuable guidance, helping you understand specific techniques, chord voicings, and picking patterns.
Incorporate these tutorials into your practice routine for a more structured learning experience.
Experiment and Make It Your Own
While learning the songs as they are is helpful, don’t be afraid to add your personal touch and explore different variations.
Experiment with different strumming patterns, embellishments, and improvisations to infuse your unique style into the songs.
Record and Evaluate
Recording yourself playing the songs lets you assess your progress and identify areas for improvement more objectively.
Listen to your recordings, paying attention to timing, dynamics, and clarity.
This self-evaluation will help refine your playing and achieve a more polished sound.
Play with Others
Collaborating with fellow musicians or joining jam sessions provides a valuable opportunity to apply what you’ve learned from these songs in a real-life musical context.
It enhances your sense of rhythm, improvisation skills, and overall musicality.
Plus, it’s a lot of fun!
Best 80s Acoustic Guitar Songs: Conclusion
I hope this journey through some of the best 80s acoustic guitar songs has inspired you!
Did we miss one?
Drop a comment below and let us know your favorite 80s acoustic guitar song that needs to be on this list!
Also, if you enjoyed this post, you may also enjoy our list of the best songs from the 60s and 70s too!
