Do you remember playing the top acoustic guitar songs from 2016?
Ah, the nostalgia!
What a year it was!
It gave us songs that physically and figuratively hit all the proper notes, giving us guitarists a wide range of styles to experiment with.
Why don’t we go on a musical excursion in the past and rediscover these songs?
With chart-topping tracks ranging from entrancing ballads to energizing pop choruses, 2016 was a wonderful year for music.
If you’ve been yearning to relive that year with the guitar or you just want to learn more songs on the guitar, you’ve come to the right post!
We’ve handpicked, strummed, and listened to countless tracks to compile this list of the 30 top acoustic guitar songs from 2016!
And if you are looking for a Spotify playlist of these songs, we’ve got it for you:
How did we choose these songs?
First, handpicking the top acoustic guitar songs of 2016 was more complex than running a few web searches.
It involved a great deal of listening, analyzing, and comparing.
We considered several factors to ensure that our selection wasn’t just random but the cream of the crop!
Here are some of the criteria we used.
Popularity
First, we asked ourselves how widely recognized and appreciated the song was.
Radio plays, chart rankings, and online streams were good barometers for this.
Top Acoustic Guitar Songs of 2016: Technicality
This criterion is about the complexity and uniqueness of the acoustic guitar part.
Would it pose a challenge to an intermediate guitarist, or is it a song a beginner could quickly master?
Our list of top acoustic guitar songs from 2016 offers a blend of both – stimulating enough for veterans yet accessible for newcomers.
Top Acoustic Guitar Songs 2016: Artist Influence
The impact of the artist or band in the music industry also matters.
A song from a well-respected musician often comes with an added layer of interest!
Each song on our list of top acoustic guitar songs in 2016 has been scrutinized against these criteria.
It’s not just about who strummed the loudest but who played the smartest and had the most resonating effect on their audience.
Now, who’s ready to dive into some melody magic from 2016?
List of 30 Top Acoustic Guitar Songs 2016
1. “Setting the World on Fire” by Kenny Chesney ft. P!nk
“Setting the World on Fire” by Kenny Chesney ft. P!nk guitar tab
This song brings together country and pop, making it a unique addition to this list.
The acoustic version, in particular, offers an engaging experience for guitar enthusiasts.
2. “7 Years” by Lukas Graham
“7 Years” by Lukas Graham guitar tab
With its catchy, easy-to-play chords and profound lyrics, “7 Years” became a favorite for acoustic guitarists in 2016.
The song’s emotional depth and relatable storytelling create an engaging experience for players and listeners alike.
3. “Cheap Thrills” by Sia
“Cheap Thrills” by Sia guitar tab
Infused with an infectious rhythm and melodic hooks, “Cheap Thrills” provides an upbeat and energetic acoustic guitar experience.
The song’s captivating simplicity, combined with Sia’s powerful vocals, makes it an enjoyable choice for guitar enthusiasts.
4. “Treat You Better” by Shawn Mendes
“Treat You Better” by Shawn Mendes guitar tab
Known for his exceptional guitar skills, Shawn Mendes delivers an excellent acoustic performance in “Treat You Better.”
The song’s heartfelt lyrics and melodic structure create a compelling narrative that resonates with listeners.
5. “Don’t Wanna Know” by Maroon 5
“Don’t Wanna Know” by Maroon 5 guitar tab
Maroon 5’s “Don’t Wanna Know” presents an exciting challenge for guitarists with its catchy melody and captivating chord progressions.
This chart-topping hit offers an opportunity to refine your skills and explore new playing techniques.
6. “Let Me Love You” by DJ Snake, Justin Bieber
“Let Me Love You” by DJ Snake, Justin Bieber guitar tab
“Let Me Love You” combines simple chord progressions with a catchy melody, making it a perfect choice for acoustic guitar beginners.
But even if you are an advanced player, this song is really fun.
7. “H.O.L.Y.” by Florida Georgia Line
“H.O.L.Y.” by Florida Georgia Line guitar tab
This song really gets at the essence of country/pop-style guitar playing.
The song’s heartfelt lyrics and catchy melody will take you on a pleasant musical journey.
8. “Stressed Out” by Twenty One Pilots
“Stressed Out” by Twenty One Pilots guitar tab
The unique sound and memorable melodies of “Stressed Out” make it a standout acoustic guitar song from 2016.
Whether you’re a fan of Twenty One Pilots or simply looking for a piece of music that resonates with your own experiences, this track could be a good one to learn.
9. “I Took A Pill In Ibiza” by Mike Posner
“I Took A Pill In Ibiza” by Mike Posner guitar tab
Mike Posner’s chart-topping hit “I Took A Pill In Ibiza” features a distinctive strumming pattern that will challenge some guitarists.
And with its introspective lyrics and catchy melodies, this song offers a unique learning experience.
10. “One Call Away” by Charlie Puth
“One Call Away” by Charlie Puth guitar tab
With its uplifting melody and simple yet enchanting chords, “One Call Away” by Charlie Puth is a joy to play on acoustic guitar.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, this song is a fun one to learn.
11. “This Town” by Niall Horan
“This Town” by Niall Horan guitar tab
“This Town” captivated guitar enthusiasts in 2016 with its beautiful acoustic composition.
The song’s sad melody and heartfelt lyrics create an intimate and emotional experience.
12. “No” by Meghan Trainor
“No” by Meghan Trainor guitar tab
Meghan Trainor’s empowering anthem “No” translates seamlessly to the acoustic guitar, providing a fun and engaging playing experience.
The song’s distinctive strumming pattern and infectious rhythm will have you grooving along in no time.
13. “Cake By The Ocean” by DNCE
“Cake By The Ocean” by DNCE guitar tab
D.N.C.E.’s upbeat track “Cake By The Ocean” offers a good opportunity to improve your rhythm skills on the guitar.
With its catchy melody and energetic vibes, this song is perfect for adding some fun to your playing repertoire.
14. “Heathens” by Twenty One Pilots
“Heathens” by Twenty One Pilots guitar tab
Known for its haunting melody and atmospheric sound, “Heathens” became a favorite among guitarists in 2016.
The song’s unique chord progressions and emotive lyrics provide an immersive musical experience.
15. “Me, Myself and I” by G-Eazy, Bebe Rexha
“Me, Myself and I” by G-Eazy, Bebe Rexha guitar tab
G-Eazy and Bebe Rexha’s collaborative track “Me, Myself and I” presents a chance to explore different playing styles on the guitar.
This song provides a versatile and enjoyable learning experience with its dynamic structure and melodic hooks.
16. “Lost Boy” by Ruth B
“Lost Boy” by Ruth B guitar tab
Ruth B’s debut single “Lost Boy” showcases a beautiful and haunting melody ideal for acoustic guitar enthusiasts.
The song’s ethereal atmosphere and heartfelt lyrics are nice qualities of this music too.
17. “Send My Love (To Your New Lover)” by Adele
“Send My Love (To Your New Lover)” by Adele guitar tab
Adele’s powerful ballad “Send My Love (To Your New Lover)” translates beautifully to the acoustic guitar, allowing you to capture the essence of her spirited performance.
The song’s melodic structure and heartfelt lyrics allow for expressive playing.
18. “Just Like Fire” by P!nk
“Just Like Fire” by P!nk guitar tab
P! nk’s inspiring anthem “Just Like Fire” is almost as exciting to play on the guitar as it is to listen to.
The song’s energetic vibe and infectious melodies will immerse you in its powerful sound.
19. “Ride” by Twenty One Pilots
“Ride” by Twenty One Pilots guitar tab
With its infectious reggae beat and a memorable chorus, “Ride” provides a thrilling and energetic acoustic guitar experience.
The song’s unique combination of catchy melodies and thought-provoking lyrics makes it a favorite among guitar enthusiasts.
20. “Gold” by Kiiara
Kiiara’s electro-pop hit “Gold” presents a fun challenge for acoustic guitarists.
The song’s unique chord progressions and catchy melody will test your skills and expand your musical repertoire.
21. “Pillowtalk” by ZAYN
“Pillowtalk” by ZAYN guitar tab
This debut solo single from ZAYN, a former One Direction member, was an instant hit due to its edgy and soulful undertones.
The song contains a minimalist acoustic guitar part punctuating the synthetic beats, proving the guitar can hold its own in a heavily produced track.
This song offers a chance to explore how guitar can complement other elements in a piece, demonstrating its utility across diverse musical landscapes.
22. “Unsteady” by X Ambassadors
“Unsteady” by X Ambassadors guitar tab
Unsteady” by X Ambassadors is an emotional song that translates beautifully to the acoustic guitar.
The heartfelt lyrics and poignant melody create a powerful musical experience.
23. “Sit Still, Look Pretty” by Daya
“Sit Still, Look Pretty” by Daya guitar tab
“Sit Still, Look Pretty” by American singer Daya is a song known for its upbeat pop tune and empowering lyrics.
The song infuses an acoustic guitar rhythm in its chorus, subtly underlining Daya’s pop-centric style with an earthy guitar sound.
The strumming pattern in this song can help a guitarist master the nuances of rhythm guitar.
24. “All We Know” by The Chainsmokers ft. Phoebe Ryan
“All We Know” by The Chainsmokers ft. Phoebe Ryan guitar tab
“All We Know” is a classic EDM song from The Chainsmokers, which fuses pop and electronic dance vibes.
What sets it apart is the understated acoustic guitar presence that drives the rhythm, showing the instrument’s versatility across genres.
The Chainsmokers’ use of guitar demonstrates the blend of traditional and modern music techniques, offering a great study piece for guitarists.
25. “Roses” by The Chainsmokers ft. R.O.Z.E.S.
“Roses” by The Chainsmokers ft. R.O.Z.E.S. guitar tab
A breakout hit for The Chainsmokers, “Roses” brilliantly weaves acoustic guitar into its electronic dance backdrop.
The song offers a great example of how traditional instruments can find their place in modern music genres.
26. “Starving” by Hailee Steinfeld, Grey ft. Zedd
“Starving” by Hailee Steinfeld, Grey ft. Zedd guitar tab
“Starving” stands out with its catchy guitar melody embedded within a pop-dance track.
The song’s blend of pop elements with acoustic guitar provides a fresh sound that engages players of all levels.
27. “Peter Pan” by Kelsea Ballerini
“Peter Pan” by Kelsea Ballerini guitar tab
Kelsea Ballerini’s “Peter Pan” is a melodic country-pop song featuring a beautiful guitar arrangement.
Its gentle transitions and rhythm make it an excellent piece for guitarists interested in mastering the country-pop style.
28. “Never Be Like You” by Flume ft. Kai
“Never Be Like You” by Flume ft. Kai guitar tab
“Never Be Like You” is an electro-pop hit that stands out for its ambient, echoing guitar line.
This song is a must-learn for guitarists interested in exploring the blend of electronic music with acoustic elements.
29. “My House” by Flo Rida
“My House” by Flo Rida gutiar tab
“My House” by Flo Rida stands out in hip-hop for its creative use of acoustic guitar.
The catchy guitar riff contributes to the song’s overall rhythm, offering a unique way for guitarists to delve into hip-hop.
30. “Say You Won’t Let Go” by James Arthur
“Say You Won’t Let Go” by James Arthur guitar tab
This soulful number by British singer-songwriter James Arthur, released in September 2016, swept the charts globally.
It is remembered for its heartfelt lyrics and simple yet catchy acoustic guitar melodies.
An ideal song for guitar learners and enthusiasts, it provides an excellent opportunity to practice melodic fingerstyle playing.
And if you want to go deeper with some of the songs on this list and others, you may want ot check out this Easy Guitar Top Hits of 2016 from Guitar Center:
Top Acoustic Guitar Songs 2016: Conclusion
What a fantastic trip down memory lane that was, strumming our way through the top acoustic guitar songs of 2016.
Whether it is the soulful “Say You Won’t Let Go” by James Arthur or the energetic “All We Know” by The Chainsmokers ft. Phoebe Ryan, each of these tunes has its unique charm that made its mark on the soundscape of 2016.
We’d love to hear from you. Comment below and tell us which song you plan to learn first or if we missed a song that we absolutely need to add to this list!
