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21 Ukulele And Guitar Songs With Just One Chord (Easy)

ukuleles

Hi, I’m your ukulele teacher, Nicholas.

I love helping beginners get started. The ukulele is fun, simple, and full of good vibes. You don’t need to know much to begin.

In this article, I’ve gathered some of the easiest songs you can play with only one chord. Yes, you've read it right, just ONE chord!! Perfect if you’re starting out.

And when you’re ready to make someone smile, try THE World’s most universal tune — Happy Birthday on ukulele.

These songs are chosen to build your confidence. You’ll be strumming and singing in no time. Play slowly - a lot slower than the original tempo first - enjoy the sound, and have fun.

If you’d like lessons or have any questions, I'd love to hear from you. Get in touch and let’s play together.

I hope this article will help you!

Let's groove!

Once you’ve had fun with these one-chord songs, you’ll be ready for more variety. Learn the Want To Play Ukulele? Start With These 7 Super Easy Chords!!

Also, have a look at The Best Ukulele Chord Charts For Beginners 😊 (get your PDF!), it could help you in your learning journey.

This article is your fun guide to easy ukulele songs, showing how just a few chords can get you strumming, singing, and enjoying music right away.

See also:

Try These 5 Ukulele Songs For Beginners Now

The Best Ukulele Chord Charts For Beginners 😊 (get your PDF!)

50 Ukulele 2 Chords Songs Beginners Can Strum Right Now

Simple Littl' Metronome. Play Better And Have More Fun : When you start playing these songs, keeping a steady rhythm can be tricky. Try my Simple Littl' Metronome. Play Better And Have More Fun to stay in time. Start really slow, then increase the tempo. It’s easy to use and makes every strum feel more confident.

These are the easiest songs you can play on ukulele. You only need one chord! That means you can start strumming and singing right away. No stress, just fun.

The Beatles - Eleanor Rigby (chorus) - Em

Tempo: 138 BPM
(Practice slower first: 93 BPM, 108 BPM then 123 BPM)
Release year: 1966

Chord and Lyrics

Download Eleanor Rigby, PDF

Why I love it

Dark, moody, and powerful. Even with one chord, the song feels dramatic.

Why it's great for beginners

One chord makes it accessible. It shows how powerful music can be without complex chords.

What strumming pattern?

Down strums are all you need here.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how one chord can still carry strong emotion.

The story behind the song

Paul McCartney created Eleanor Rigby after imagining the life of a lonely woman. He was inspired by the loneliness he noticed around him, especially in Liverpool. He once visited an elderly woman who lived alone and shared stories of her past, which deeply moved him. The song grew into a portrait of forgotten lives and unseen struggles. Unlike the usual upbeat Beatles tracks, Eleanor Rigby stood out with its somber tone and emotional storytelling.
Its haunting mood still feels unique today.

Who else played it

and so many more! More than 200 other bands/artists have played it.

Where you’ve heard it

Eleanor Rigby has appeared in multiple Beatles documentaries. It was also featured in the animated film Yellow Submarine (1968).

Fun fact

No Beatles played instruments on the recording! Only a string octet was used, giving it that dramatic, classical sound. Pretty unusual for a rock band in the ’60s.

Aretha Franklin - Chain of Fools - Am

Tempo: 76 BPM (Practice slower first: 31 BPM, 46 BPM then 61 BPM)
Release year: 1967

Chord and Lyrics

Download Chain of Fools, PDF

Why I love it

It's pure soul power. Singing this while strumming feels amazing.

Why it's great for beginners

Only one chord! Perfect for building rhythm and confidence.

What strumming pattern?

Down strums with a sharp accent.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how groove comes more from rhythm than chords.

The story behind the song

Chain of Fools was written by Don Covay, who originally pitched it as a blues track. Producer Jerry Wexler passed it to Aretha Franklin, who transformed it in 1967 with her unmistakable power and gospel roots. The song tells of betrayal, frustration, and breaking free from a harmful relationship. Backed by her raw delivery and a tight Muscle Shoals rhythm section, it became one of her defining hits. Chain of Fools turned a simple idea into timeless soul.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The song appears in the film Michael (1996, starring John Travolta) and in the Aretha Franklin biopic Respect (2021). It’s also often featured in TV shows about soul and R&B history.

Fun fact

Chain of Fools earned Aretha Franklin a Grammy in 1969. The recording also features legendary guitarist Joe South, who played the iconic opening riff.

Harry Nilsson - Coconut - C7

Tempo: 92 BPM (Practice slower first: 47 BPM, 62 BPM then 77 BPM)
Release year: 1971

Chord and Lyrics

Download Coconut, PDF

Why I love it

This song is quirky and fun. I love how you can just sit and sing it with one single chord.

Why it's great for beginners

One chord only! It helps beginners focus on rhythm and singing without worrying about chord changes.

What strumming pattern?

Just simple down strums work. If you feel confident, add a light down-up pattern.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how to hold rhythm and keep singing while playing.

Muddy Waters - Mannish Boy - A

Tempo: 100 BPM (Practice slower first: 55 BPM, 70 BPM then 85 BPM)
Release year: 1955

Chord and Lyrics

Download Mannish Boy, PDF

Why I love it

It's blues swagger at its best. Muddy's voice and groove are unstoppable.

It makes me think to George Thorogood & The Destroyers - Bad To The Bone, but Muddy Waters' tempo is just perfect: not to fast, just what is needed to be "powerful".

Why it's great for beginners

One chord keeps it super simple while you lock into the blues groove.

What strumming pattern?

Strong down strums with a bluesy swing.

What you'll learn

You'll learn that confidence and rhythm are more important than chord changes.

The story behind the song

Mannish Boy was recorded by Muddy Waters in 1955 as a bold response to Bo Diddley’s I’m a Man. It became one of his signature tracks, mixing Chicago blues grit with raw swagger. The call-and-response chorus, driven by shouting and clapping, made it an anthem of confidence. Muddy later re-recorded it in 1977 for his comeback album Hard Again, produced by Johnny Winter. That version, full of fire and grit, remains one of the most celebrated blues recordings ever.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

Mannish Boy has been used in countless films, including Risky Business (1983) and Goodfellas (1990). It often pops up in commercials and documentaries to capture raw blues energy.

Fun fact

The song title plays on the phrase I’m a man. Muddy Waters flips it with humor and bravado, declaring his maturity and power. The stomping groove and shouted responses give it a live, almost party-like energy, even in the studio.

The Kingsmen - Louie Louie (simplified) - A

Tempo: 120 BPM (Practice slower first: 75 BPM, 90 BPM then 105 BPM)
Release year: 1963

Chord and Lyrics

Download Louie Louie, PDF

Why I love it

It's raw and fun. Everyone knows the riff and can sing along.

Why it's great for beginners

One chord makes it simple. You can focus on rhythm and groove.

What strumming pattern?

Down strums with attitude.

What you'll learn

You'll learn that simple songs can still be loud and fun.

The story behind the song

Louie Louie was originally written by Richard Berry in 1955, inspired by Latin rhythms and simple blues. The Kingsmen recorded their version in 1963, and despite the rough sound quality, it became a massive garage rock anthem. Its raw energy and slurred vocals sparked controversy, even leading to an FBI investigation over supposed hidden lyrics. The result? The song only grew more famous, turning into one of the most iconic rock tunes ever played with just three chords — or simplified down to one.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

Louie Louie has appeared in films like Animal House (1978) and Quadrophenia (1979). It’s also a sports-stadium classic, blasted at countless games in the U.S.

Fun fact

The controversy around Louie Louie is legendary. The Kingsmen’s slurred vocals made the lyrics almost impossible to understand, and rumors spread that the words were filthy. Parents’ groups panicked, and even the FBI launched a two-year investigation to uncover hidden obscenities. They listened to countless slowed-down versions of the track but couldn’t prove anything. In the end, the lyrics were completely innocent. Ironically, all the drama only made the song more popular and cemented its place in rock history.

Harry Belafonte - Banana Boat Song (Day-O) - C

Tempo: 86 BPM (Practice slower first: 41 BPM, 56 BPM then 71 BPM)
Release year: 1956

Chord and Lyrics

Download Banana Boat Song, PDF

Why I love it

It's joyful, fun, and instantly recognisable.

Beside, it's been in the Tim Burton's 1988 film Beetlejuice.

And last but not least, it's so much fun to play and sing!

Why it's great for beginners

One chord and a call-and-response structure. Easy to follow.

What strumming pattern?

Light down-up to match the rhythm.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how to create groove with feel, not complexity.

The story behind the song

Banana Boat Song (Day-O) is a Jamaican folk tune rooted in the daily work of dock laborers. The call-and-response style mimics workers singing through the night as they loaded bananas, waiting for daylight and the tallyman. Harry Belafonte recorded it in 1956, bringing calypso music to a worldwide audience. Its playful chant and rhythm captured the joy and struggle of Caribbean life, turning a traditional work song into a global hit that made Belafonte the “King of Calypso.”

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The most famous use is in Tim Burton’s film Beetlejuice (1988), during the unforgettable and hilarious dinner table possession scene. For its sequel, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024), a cover of Day-O (The Banana Boat Song) is performed by Alfie Davis and the Sylvia Young Theatre School Choir.

It’s also been used in commercials, TV shows, and many other movies.

Fun fact

When Belafonte first performed Day-O on television, many U.S. audiences had never heard calypso before. The song’s playful style and catchy chorus fascinated them. It quickly became a singalong hit, reaching number five on the Billboard Hot 100. Decades later, its feature in Beetlejuice introduced it to a whole new generation. Today, it remains one of the most recognizable songs in popular culture, often used as shorthand for fun Caribbean vibes, even though it began as a song of tough night work.

Bruce Springsteen - Born in the U.S.A. (riff) - B

Tempo: 117 BPM (Practice slower first: 72 BPM, 87 BPM then 102 BPM)
Release year: 1984

Chord and Lyrics

Download Born in the U.S.A., PDF

Why I love it

It's iconic. The riff sticks in your head instantly.

Why it's great for beginners

One chord means less stress. You can enjoy the anthem vibe.

What strumming pattern?

Heavy down strums.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how repetition and power create impact.

The story behind the song

Born in the U.S.A. was written by Bruce Springsteen in the early 1980s and released in 1984 as the title track of his bestselling album. The song tells the story of a Vietnam veteran returning home, only to face neglect and hardship. Its anthemic chorus and pounding riff made it sound celebratory, but the lyrics carried anger and critique. The contrast between the music’s energy and the message’s darkness gave it power. It remains one of Springsteen’s most famous songs worldwide.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The song is widely used at sports events and political rallies, though often misunderstood as purely patriotic. It also features in several Vietnam War documentaries.

Fun fact

Many people mistake Born in the U.S.A. for a patriotic anthem because of its explosive chorus. In reality, it’s a protest song about veterans forgotten by their country. Springsteen has often explained this irony, noting that the upbeat, stadium-sized music confused casual listeners. The famous album cover photo, showing his denim-clad back against the American flag, reinforced the patriotic look. Yet the lyrics reveal a far darker story. That duality is why the song is both celebrated and debated to this day.

Richie Havens - Freedom - Dm

Tempo: 92 BPM (Practice slower first: 47 BPM, 62 BPM then 77 BPM)
Release year: 1969

Chord and Lyrics

Download Freedom, PDF

Why I love it

It's Woodstock history. So much power from just one chord.

Why it's great for beginners

One chord lets you dive into rhythm and emotion.

What strumming pattern?

Fast down strums, almost percussive.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how passion beats perfection.

The story behind the song

Freedom became legendary at Woodstock in 1969. Richie Havens opened the festival when other acts were delayed, and he had to keep playing far longer than planned. Running out of songs, he improvised by blending the traditional spiritual Motherless Child with a repeated chant of Freedom. The moment was raw, emotional, and completely unplanned. That spontaneous performance turned into an anthem for the festival and the era. It captured the spirit of urgency, hope, and unity that Woodstock symbolized.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The song is famously tied to the Woodstock film (1970) and soundtrack. It has also appeared in various documentaries about the 1960s counterculture.

Fun fact

Havens hadn’t even planned to play Freedom that day. He was called to stretch his set, so he poured everything into improvisation. The crowd’s reaction was electric, and the performance became historic. To this day, it’s remembered as one of Woodstock’s most powerful moments. Havens later said the song was born out of pure necessity, proving that sometimes the greatest music comes when you least expect it.

Beck - Loser (riff) - Em

Tempo: 85 BPM (Practice slower first: 40 BPM, 55 BPM then 70 BPM)
Release year: 1994

Chord and Lyrics

Download Loser, PDF

Why I love it

It's quirky and instantly recognisable.

Why it's great for beginners

One chord riff makes it super easy to pick up.

What strumming pattern?

Loose down strums, almost lazy.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how groove can feel relaxed but cool.

The story behind the song

Loser was Beck’s breakout hit, first released in 1993 and reissued in 1994, when it climbed the charts worldwide. Beck blended folk guitar riffs with hip-hop beats and surreal lyrics, creating something totally fresh. The song was born from a spontaneous jam session where Beck joked about his rapping skills, calling himself a “loser”. Ironically, that offhand line became the hook. Loser perfectly captured the slacker spirit of the ’90s, launching Beck’s career and cementing his reputation as an inventive genre-breaker.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The song was everywhere in the mid-1990s, from MTV rotation to college radio. It’s also featured in films like Kill Me Later (2001) and many TV soundtracks.

Fun fact

Beck originally thought Loser was a throwaway track and didn’t expect it to succeed. He once joked that the song was “one step away from a novelty hit.” But listeners loved its mix of nonsense lyrics, funky rhythm, and sarcastic tone. The phrase “I’m a loser baby, so why don’t you kill me?” became iconic for a generation. Instead of ending his career before it began, Loser catapulted Beck into stardom and helped define alternative rock in the 1990s.

The Staple Singers - I'll Take You There - C

Tempo: 88 BPM (Practice slower first: 43 BPM, 58 BPM then 73 BPM)
Release year: 1972

Chord and Lyrics

Download I'll Take You There, PDF

Why I love it

It's soulful and uplifting.

Why it's great for beginners

One chord groove that's perfect for beginners.

What strumming pattern?

Down strums with light bounce.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how groove can carry a whole song.

The story behind the song

I’ll Take You There was released in 1972 by The Staple Singers and quickly became one of their biggest hits. Written by Al Bell of Stax Records, the song was both a gospel-inspired call for hope and a subtle message about civil rights. With Mavis Staples’ soulful lead vocals and the band’s laid-back groove, it created a powerful mix of spirituality and social consciousness. The tune’s hypnotic bass line and uplifting message helped make it an enduring anthem of joy and resilience.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The song has appeared in films like Barbershop (2002) and The Help (2011). It’s also a staple on soul and gospel compilations.

Fun fact

The unmistakable groove of I’ll Take You There was built around a Jamaican reggae rhythm, showing how much Black American music was cross-pollinating at the time. The song went to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains The Staple Singers’ signature track.

Mavis Staples has often said that the song isn’t just about heaven, but also about building a better world here and now.
That timeless message keeps it relevant, inspiring listeners across generations to believe in change.

Slim Harpo - I'm a King Bee - E

Tempo: 84 BPM (Practice slower first: 39 BPM, 54 BPM then 69 BPM)
Release year: 1957

Chord and Lyrics

Download I'm a King Bee, PDF

Read also: The E Chord Made Easy: 3 Simple Tricks for Beginners

Why I love it

It's bluesy, swampy, and fun to sing.

Why it's great for beginners

Simple groove. One chord makes it easy to learn.

What strumming pattern?

Loose shuffle feel.

What you'll learn

You'll learn to feel the blues rhythm on ukulele.

The story behind the song

I’m a King Bee was first recorded by Slim Harpo in 1957 and released in 1958. A Louisiana bluesman with a laid-back style, Harpo delivered it with a swampy groove and sly humor. The song’s double-entendre lyrics playfully mix romance with nature imagery, making it both cheeky and catchy. It became Harpo’s signature tune, blending harmonica riffs, a slow shuffle rhythm, and his relaxed vocals. Over time, it grew into a blues standard and an early influence on the British rock invasion.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The Rolling Stones’ version helped introduce I’m a King Bee to rock audiences. It’s also appeared in several blues documentaries and compilation albums.

Fun fact

Slim Harpo’s easygoing style was hugely admired by British rock musicians in the 1960s.
Mick Jagger once said Harpo’s records were among the band’s favorites to rehearse. Despite its playful lyrics, the song had a lasting influence on rock and roll.
Many bands used it to learn the basics of blues structure, thanks to its simple groove and memorable harmonica. That little swamp-blues single from Louisiana ended up shaping the sound of rock’s earliest stars.

Drunken Sailor (traditional) - Em

⚓

Tempo: 120 BPM (Practice slower first: 75 BPM, 90 BPM then 105 BPM)
Release year: Traditional (19th century sea shanty)

Chord and Lyrics

Download Drunken Sailor, PDF

Why I love it

It's a sea shanty! Singing this feels powerful and fun. It makes you want to stomp your foot along.

Why it's great for beginners

One chord means you can focus on rhythm. The melody is repetitive and easy to sing.

What strumming pattern?

Strong down strums match the sailor vibe. Later, try down-down-up for extra energy.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how to keep up with faster rhythms while still playing just one chord.

The story behind the song

Drunken Sailor is a traditional sea shanty dating back to the early 19th century. Sailors sang it while working together on ships, especially during tasks that needed fast, coordinated effort. The lyrics ask, “What shall we do with a drunken sailor?” and each verse imagines humorous or harsh solutions. Its driving rhythm helped sailors pull ropes or scrub decks in unison. Over time, the song spread beyond ships, becoming a folk standard performed in pubs, festivals, and classrooms worldwide.

Who else played it

The Irish Rovers (1960s, folk version)

The King’s Singers (1979, choral arrangement)

Great Big Sea (1993, folk-rock version)

Mad Dog Mcrea (2010s, live performances)

Where you’ve heard it

The shanty has appeared in countless pirate-themed films, children’s shows, and video games, including Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag. It’s also a favorite at folk festivals.

Fun fact

Although it sounds like pure fun today, Drunken Sailor was once serious work music. The fast pace made it perfect for “heaving” tasks like raising anchors. Its simple structure allowed sailors to add endless verses on the spot. That mix of practicality and humor helped it survive centuries. Today, people sing it in schools, pubs, and even sports arenas, proving it’s still as catchy and communal as ever.

Run On (traditional) - Em

Tempo: 112 BPM (Practice slower first: 67 BPM, 82 BPM then 97 BPM)
Release year: Traditional gospel

Chord and Lyrics

Download Run On, PDF

Why I love it

The version from Bill Landford And The Landfordaires sounds fantastic.

It's a classic gospel tune. The drive and energy make it uplifting to play.

It's been "covered" by Moby in 1999. One of my sister had the album, and it just brings back good memories.

Here is Moby's version:

Why it's great for beginners

Just one chord! It lets you focus on strong singing and steady rhythm.

What strumming pattern?

Hard down strums. That works perfectly for this style.

What you'll learn

You'll learn to strum with confidence and power.

The story behind the song

Run On (also known as God’s Gonna Cut You Down) is a traditional American folk and gospel song. Its roots stretch back to the early 20th century, sung in churches and recorded by gospel quartets. The lyrics warn that no matter what you do, you can’t escape judgment. Over time, it became a powerful spiritual standard, blending faith, fear, and storytelling. Its steady, driving rhythm makes it perfect for clapping, stomping, or strumming on a single chord.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The song appears in gospel collections, films, and TV shows exploring American roots music. Johnny Cash’s version has been featured in crime dramas and ads.

Fun fact

The same traditional song has gone by many names:

Each artist shaped it differently — from gospel choirs to rock legends. Despite those changes, the core message stayed the same. That timeless theme of truth catching up to you has kept the song alive for over a century.

It’s one of the rare one-chord songs that bridges gospel, blues, country, and even electronic music!!

Tito Puente / Santana - Oye Como Va - Am

Tempo: 116 BPM (Practice slower first: 71 BPM, 86 BPM then 101 BPM)
Release year: 1963 (Puente) / 1970 (Santana)

Chord and Lyrics and Lyrics

Download Oye Como Va, PDF

Why I love it

It's funky, Latin, and cool. Strumming along feels like dancing.

Why it's great for beginners

One chord. Easy. The rhythm is where the magic is.

What strumming pattern?

Syncopated down-up strums fit the feel.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how rhythm transforms a simple chord into something exciting.

The story behind the song

Oye Como Va was written and recorded by Tito Puente in 1962 as a lively cha-cha-chá tune. With its call to “listen to how it goes,” the song celebrated rhythm and dance.

In 1970, Santana reimagined it with electric guitar, organ, and Latin rock energy. That version exploded internationally, introducing many listeners to Latin music for the first time. The song’s hypnotic groove, built around a single Am chord, showed how rhythm and feel can carry a track as much as melody.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

Santana’s version has been featured in movies, commercials, and TV shows, often used to instantly set a Latin party atmosphere.

Fun fact

Tito Puente jokingly said Santana made him rich by popularizing Oye Como Va.

Santana’s rock version reached mainstream audiences, while Puente’s royalty checks soared. Despite the fame of the cover, Puente remained proud of his original composition, often reminding people: “That’s my song!”

The tune is now considered a Latin music standard, bridging cultures through rhythm. It also proved that even a one-chord groove could cross language barriers and become a worldwide hit.

Shady Grove (traditional) - Dm

Tempo: 90 BPM (Practice slower first: 45 BPM, 60 BPM then 75 BPM)
Release year: as it's a traditional Appalachian folk, it's always been around

Chord and Lyrics and Lyrics

Download Shady Grove, PDF

Why I love it

This old folk tune is haunting and beautiful. It feels earthy and timeless.

Why it's great for beginners

Again, just one chord! You can focus on singing the melody without chord changes.

What strumming pattern?

Gentle down strums work perfectly. Add down-up for variation.

What you'll learn

You'll learn to use dynamics - play softer or louder to give more emotion.

The story behind the song

Shady Grove is a traditional Appalachian folk song with roots in the 18th and 19th centuries. It likely came from the British Isles before being reshaped in the mountains of America. The lyrics often describe a young man singing about his beloved “Shady Grove”, though the verses vary widely. With its modal melody and simple structure, the song feels both haunting and earthy. Over time, it became a staple of old-time and bluegrass music, passed down through generations of folk singers.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The song appears in folk festivals, old-time jams, and countless bluegrass collections. It has also been featured in American folk documentaries.

Fun fact

Because Shady Grove is part of oral tradition, no two versions are exactly the same. Singers often change verses, melodies, or rhythms to suit their style. That flexibility is why the song survived centuries, always adapting to new times and players. From front porches to festival stages, it continues to charm audiences with its timeless mix of longing and simplicity. Even with just one chord, it carries an emotional depth that has made it beloved across generations.

Bo Diddley - Bo Diddley - G

Tempo: 94 BPM (Practice slower first: 49 BPM, 64 BPM then 79 BPM)
Release year: 1955

Chord and Lyrics

Download Bo Diddley, PDF

Why I love it

The rhythm is hypnotic. It's a groove that never stops.

It's been an inspiration for numerous tracks. I remember loving Good Charlotte - I Want Candy! (however Good Charlotte's version is in Db)

Why it's great for beginners

One chord keeps it simple.

What strumming pattern?

The "Bo Diddley beat" - syncopated down-up feel.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how rhythm patterns can make one chord feel endless.

The story behind the song

Bo Diddley was released in 1955 as the debut single of the artist who took the same name. Built around the iconic “Bo Diddley beat,” a syncopated rhythm borrowed from Afro-Cuban music, it changed rock and roll forever. The song’s pounding groove, maracas, and playful lyrics set a new standard for rhythm-driven rock.

With only one chord carrying the entire track, Bo Diddley proved that rhythm and feel could be more important than complex harmonies.
It became a foundation for countless future songs.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The song has appeared in rock documentaries, concert films, and music history series. The “Bo Diddley beat” also pops up in countless pop and rock hits.

Fun fact

The Bo Diddley beat became one of the most imitated rhythms in rock history. You can hear it in songs like Buddy Holly’s Not Fade Away, George Michael’s Faith, and even Beyoncé’s Single Ladies. Diddley’s influence stretched far beyond his own recordings. He once joked that he should have been paid royalties every time someone used his beat. Instead, his name became synonymous with a rhythm so universal that it shaped generations of music, all starting from one chord.

Bob Dylan - Maggie's Farm - G

Tempo: 98 BPM (Practice slower first: 53 BPM, 68 BPM then 83 BPM)
Release year: 1965

Chord and Lyrics

Download Maggie's Farm, PDF

Why I love it

It's classic Dylan - protest, energy, and attitude.

Why it's great for beginners

You only need one chord!

What strumming pattern?

Strong down strums, relaxed groove.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how to hold rhythm steady for storytelling songs.

The story behind the song

Maggie's Farm was released in 1965 on Dylan’s Bringing It All Back Home album. It’s a protest song in disguise, using the farm as a metaphor for oppressive systems and expectations. Dylan rejects “working for Maggie’s brother, mother, or father,” symbolizing his refusal to be controlled.
When he played it electrically at the Newport Folk Festival in 1965, it shocked folk purists but marked his bold move into rock. The song remains a rebellious anthem of independence, powered by one driving chord.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The song is often featured in Dylan documentaries and live concert recordings. Rage Against the Machine’s cover brought it to a new generation.

Fun fact

Dylan’s performance of Maggie's Farm at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival is legendary. It was one of the first times he played an electric guitar live with a full band. Folk fans expecting acoustic protest songs booed, but Dylan stood firm. That moment is now seen as a turning point in rock history. Maggie's Farm became more than a song — it symbolized Dylan breaking free from expectations, showing that even one chord could carry a revolution!

Bob Marley - Get Up, Stand Up - Am

Tempo: 84 BPM (Practice slower first: 39 BPM, 54 BPM then 69 BPM)
Release year: 1973

Chord and Lyrics

Download Get Up Stand Up, PDF

Why I love it

It's one of Marley's most powerful songs. The groove is irresistible.

Why it's great for beginners

One chord means you can enjoy the reggae rhythm without stress.

What strumming pattern?

Down strums on the off-beat for that reggae vibe.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how rhythm can define a genre.

The story behind the song

Get Up, Stand Up was written by Bob Marley and Peter Tosh in 1973, inspired by Marley’s visit to Haiti where he witnessed poverty and struggle. The song became both a spiritual and political anthem, urging people to stand up for their rights. With its hypnotic groove, call-and-response chorus, and one-chord simplicity, it captured the heart of reggae. Marley often closed his concerts with this song, making it one of his most enduring messages of strength, resistance, and hope.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The song has been featured in reggae compilations, protest documentaries, and countless Marley tribute concerts. It’s one of the most recognized reggae anthems worldwide.

Fun fact

Marley wrote Get Up, Stand Up after seeing the resilience of people living under harsh conditions in Haiti. The song became a rallying cry not only in Jamaica but globally. Its simplicity made it easy for crowds to sing along, turning concerts into collective chants.

Today, it’s often used at human rights events and protests, proving how timeless its message is.

What started as one chord and a strong groove became one of the most important protest songs in modern music history.

Creedence Clearwater Revival - Run Through the Jungle - Dm

Tempo: 72 BPM (Practice slower first: 27 BPM, 42 BPM then 57 BPM)
Release year: 1970

Chord and Lyrics

Download Run Through the Jungle, PDF

Why I love it

It's dark, swampy, and hypnotic. A true CCR classic.

Why it's great for beginners

One chord groove, so you can focus on steady strumming.

What strumming pattern?

Strong down strums, steady and even.

What you'll learn

You'll learn to create atmosphere with rhythm.

The story behind the song

Run Through the Jungle was released by Creedence Clearwater Revival in 1970 on their album Cosmo’s Factory. Though many assumed it was about the Vietnam War, John Fogerty later explained it was actually about gun proliferation in the United States. The swampy guitar riffs, harmonica, and relentless beat give it an eerie, tense atmosphere.

With only one chord driving the groove, CCR created a song full of menace and urgency. It remains one of their darkest, most powerful tracks.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The song has appeared in Vietnam-era movies, TV soundtracks, and even video games, often used to evoke tension and danger.

Fun fact

Despite its jungle imagery, Fogerty confirmed the song had nothing to do with Vietnam. Instead, it was his warning about the spread of firearms in the U.S. The confusion only made the track more famous, especially when used in war-related media. Its hypnotic, one-chord structure adds to the sense of being trapped in a relentless cycle. Over the years, Run Through the Jungle has become both a protest song and a showcase of CCR’s ability to make something huge out of simplicity.

The Doors - Roadhouse Blues (riff) - E

Tempo: 112 BPM (Practice slower first: 67 BPM, 82 BPM then 97 BPM)
Release year: 1970

Chord and Lyrics

Download Roadhouse Blues, PDF

Read also: The E Chord Made Easy: 3 Simple Tricks for Beginners

Why I love it

It's dirty, bluesy rock. Pure Doors energy.

Why it's great for beginners

One chord blues riff makes it fun and simple.

What strumming pattern?

Loose shuffle strums.

What you'll learn

You'll learn to feel blues swing on ukulele.

The story behind the song

Roadhouse Blues was recorded by The Doors in 1969 and released on their 1970 album Morrison Hotel. Inspired by barroom culture and gritty nightlife, Jim Morrison improvised much of the song’s lyrics in the studio.

With its raw shuffle and driving one-chord groove, it became one of The Doors’ most iconic blues numbers. The track captures the reckless, hedonistic energy of Morrison’s persona, while the band leans into a loose, jammy feel. It has remained a fan favorite at concerts and festivals.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The song often appears in biker movies, classic rock documentaries, and Doors tribute shows, perfectly setting a gritty, barroom atmosphere.

Fun fact

During the recording of Roadhouse Blues, legendary guitarist Lonnie Mack played bass and John Sebastian from The Lovin’ Spoonful added harmonica. The sessions were famously chaotic, fueled by Morrison’s unpredictable behavior. Despite the roughness, the track became a staple of The Doors’ live shows. Its opening line, “Woke up this morning and I got myself a beer,” turned into a classic rock catchphrase. Even today, Roadhouse Blues is often the go-to jam when bands want to capture raw, barroom energy with just one chord.

John Lee Hooker - Boogie Chillen - E

Tempo: 90 BPM (Practice slower first: 45 BPM, 60 BPM then 75 BPM)
Release year: 1948

Chord and Lyrics

Download Boogie Chillen, PDF

Read also: The E Chord Made Easy: 3 Simple Tricks for Beginners

Why I love it

It's raw and hypnotic. A blues legend.

Why it's great for beginners

One chord groove makes it easy to learn.

What strumming pattern?

Shuffle down strums.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how blues can be simple but powerful.

The story behind the song

Boogie Chillen was first recorded by John Lee Hooker in 1948 and became his breakout hit. It’s a semi-autobiographical song about Hooker’s life in Detroit, blending memories of his hometown with his discovery of the city’s blues scene.

Played entirely on one chord with his foot stomping as percussion, the song created a hypnotic groove that was unlike anything else at the time. It launched Hooker’s career and helped define the boogie style that influenced countless blues and rock musicians.

Who else played it

Canned Heat (1960s, blues-rock version)

ZZ Top (1970s, live covers)

George Thorogood & the Destroyers (1980s, hard-driving version)

Eric Clapton (tribute concerts, 1990s)

Where you’ve heard it

The song has been featured in blues documentaries, classic rock radio, and soundtracks celebrating the roots of rock and roll.

Fun fact

Boogie Chillen was recorded in a single take with just Hooker, his guitar, and a foot tapping on a wooden floor. That raw setup gave it a pounding, primal energy that mesmerized listeners.

It went on to become the first million-selling single in the blues genre.

The hypnotic rhythm has been borrowed by countless artists, making it one of the most influential one-chord songs ever.

Hooker himself often joked that he never thought such a simple riff would make him famous.

Ritchie Havens - Handsome Johnny - G

Tempo: 88 BPM (Practice slower first: 43 BPM, 58 BPM then 73 BPM)
Release year: 1967

Chord and Lyrics

Download Handsome Johnny, PDF

Why I love it

It's heartfelt and emotional. A folk protest classic.

Why it's great for beginners

One chord strumming makes it simple.

What strumming pattern?

Gentle down strums.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how emotion can shine through simplicity.

The story behind the song

Boogie Chillen was first recorded by John Lee Hooker in 1948 and became his breakout hit. It’s a semi-autobiographical song about Hooker’s life in Detroit, blending memories of his hometown with his discovery of the city’s blues scene. Played entirely on one chord with his foot stomping as percussion, the song created a hypnotic groove that was unlike anything else at the time. It launched Hooker’s career and helped define the boogie style that influenced countless blues and rock musicians.

Who else played it

Canned Heat (1960s, blues-rock version)

ZZ Top (1970s, live covers)

George Thorogood & the Destroyers (1980s, hard-driving version)

Eric Clapton (tribute concerts, 1990s)

Where you’ve heard it

The song has been featured in blues documentaries, classic rock radio, and soundtracks celebrating the roots of rock and roll.

Fun fact

Boogie Chillen was recorded in a single take with just Hooker, his guitar, and a foot tapping on a wooden floor. That raw setup gave it a pounding, primal energy that mesmerized listeners. It went on to become the first million-selling single in the blues genre. The hypnotic rhythm has been borrowed by countless artists, making it one of the most influential one-chord songs ever. Hooker himself often joked that he never thought such a simple riff would make him famous.

Buffalo Springfield - For What It's Worth (riff) - E

Tempo: 98 BPM (Practice slower first: 53 BPM, 68 BPM then 83 BPM)
Release year: 1966

Chord and Lyrics

Download For What It's Worth, PDF

Read also: The E Chord Made Easy: 3 Simple Tricks for Beginners

Why I love it

That intro riff is unforgettable. A protest anthem with style.

Why it's great for beginners

You only need one chord. The song is all about rhythm and lyrics.

What strumming pattern?

Steady down strums.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how to play something iconic with just one chord.

The story behind the song

For What It’s Worth was written by Stephen Stills and recorded by Buffalo Springfield in 1966. Though many listeners linked it to anti–Vietnam War protests, the song was actually inspired by the Sunset Strip curfew riots in Los Angeles. Young people clashed with police over restrictions placed on music venues, and Stills turned that tension into a reflective anthem. With its haunting riff, simple structure, and calm delivery, it became a defining song of the 1960s counterculture.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The song appears in films like Forrest Gump (1994), Lord of War (2005), and numerous Vietnam-era documentaries. Its opening riff is instantly recognizable.

Fun fact

The title For What It’s Worth was never in the lyrics. Stephen Stills simply said the phrase when presenting the song to record executives, and it stuck as the name.

Despite its local inspiration, the track grew into a universal anthem for protest and social unrest.

Its hypnotic one-chord riff has helped it endure across decades, proving that sometimes the simplest structure carries the strongest message. Today, it remains one of the most quoted and reinterpreted songs of the 1960s.

The Stooges - I Wanna Be Your Dog - D

Tempo: 124 BPM (Practice slower first: 79 BPM, 94 BPM then 109 BPM)
Release year: 1969

Chord and Lyrics

Download I Wanna Be Your Dog, PDF

Read also: The D Chord Made Easy: 3 Simple Tricks for Beginners

Why I love it

It's raw, punk, and simple. Pure energy in one chord.

Why it's great for beginners

One chord punk anthem. Perfect for strumming hard without thinking.

What strumming pattern?

Relentless down strums.

What you'll learn

You'll learn that energy can be more powerful than technical skill.

The story behind the song

I Wanna Be Your Dog was released by The Stooges in 1969 on their self-titled debut album. Written by Iggy Pop and the Asheton brothers, the song combined raw lyrics with a grinding one-chord riff. Its heavy distortion, pounding piano, and hypnotic rhythm made it a proto-punk classic. The track shocked listeners at the time with its mix of aggression and submission, but it became a cornerstone of punk attitude. Simple yet primal, it showed how minimalism could deliver maximum impact.

Who else played it

Where you’ve heard it

The song has appeared in films like Trainspotting (1996), Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998), and several punk documentaries.

Fun fact

Producer John Cale of The Velvet Underground played the repetitive piano part that drives the song. His minimalist approach matched the Stooges’ raw energy perfectly. Though dismissed by critics at first, I Wanna Be Your Dog later became one of Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.” Its blunt lyrics and grinding riff influenced punk, grunge, and alternative bands for decades.

Today, it stands as one of the most iconic one-chord songs ever recorded.

Conclusion

Playing one-chord songs is the best way to start:

  1. You can focus on the chords - one at a time.
  2. You can then focus on the rhythm, strumming.
  3. Then the singing without worrying about tricky changes.

I love how simple songs can sound so good. They prove you don’t need much to make music. Just a ukulele and some joy.

From here, you could explore easy two-chord songs. You could also try changing your strumming, singing louder, or even writing your own one-chord tune!!!

I hope I have been helpful today. My goal is always to make learning fun and easy for you.

If you would like to get to the next level, feel free to ⇨ try a one to one free ukulele lesson.

Metronome

To change the beat/BPM from the song you are making music on:

♪
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80
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increase bpm by
3
after every
during minutes

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I hope this article has helped you :)

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Nicholas, your ukulele teacher

Hey there! Looking for a fun way to strum your way into the world of music?

Well, look no further! I'm Nicholas, your friendly ukulele teacher extraordinaire! With my expertise and a sprinkle of laughter, I'll have you strumming those strings like a pro in no time.

Get ready to unleash your inner musician and embark on a musical journey.

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