There’s no question that guitars have been a staple in music for decades. Whether it’s classic rock, pop, or any other genre, there are countless songs that have been written about guitars. But what are the 20 best songs about guitars? We’ve put together a list of some of our favorites, ranging from classic rock to modern pop. Check it out!
By the way, if you’re interested in songs about guitars, you may also want to read songs about bass, songs about players, and songs with great bass lines.Teardrop Of My Guitar – Taylor Swift
Tearsdrop of My Guitar is a powerful song that explores the meaning and significance of guitars in our lives. Featuring melancholic lyrics and fluid guitar riffs, this song calls to mind all of the things that we love about our favorite instruments: the way they feel under our fingers, the notes they create when we play them, and how they evoke memories of happier times. But Tearsdrop of My Guitar is also a poignant reflection on how different moments in life change the way we think about our beloved guitars.
Guitar Man – Bread
Guitar Man by Bread is one of the most famous songs about guitars. This upbeat, catchy tune tells the story of a young man who is obsessed with his guitar and dreams of becoming a rock star. He spends all his time practicing his skills, both on his guitar and on his voice, and he even writes original songs to showcase his talent. Despite his efforts, however, he always seems to fall short of his musical goals, as other artists rise to fame while he remains unsigned.
2112 – Rush
2112 is a song by the Canadian rock band Rush, released as the title track on their fourth studio album of the same name in 1976. Written by bassist Geddy Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson, with lyrics by drummer and vocalist Neil Peart, the song tells the story of a future society where creativity and individuality are suppressed through government controls, and where music is outlawed. The song is divided into seven sections, or “movements”, each telling a different part of the story. The first section, “Overture”, introduces the themes of the song with a series of guitar arpeggios played over a bed of synthesizers.
Johnny B. Goode (1958) – Chuck Berry
Johnny B. Goode is a song about guitars, but it also tells the story of a certain type of American dream. Written and first recorded by Chuck Berry in 1958, the song is full of lyrical references to classic blues artists like Muddy Waters and Lightnin’ Hopkins, while also espousing the promise of success through hard work and perseverance. In his characteristic style, Berry wryly sings about this timeless theme over the top of some infectious guitar riffs and driving rhythms. Set to a driving acoustic guitar that could almost pass as a banjo or piano, Johnny B. Goode is a classic example of rock ‘n’ roll at its best, showcasing both the technical complexity and soulful spirit that make this genre so beloved around the world.
Play Guitar (1983) – John Cougar
John Cougar’s 1983 hit “Play Guitar” is a song that pays homage to the many great guitarists in rock history. At the time of its release, guitar-driven arena rock was very much in vogue, and the song captures this vibe perfectly. The driving rhythm section, coupled with Cougar’s raspy vocals and blistering guitar licks, creates a catchy and energetic sound that pays tribute to legendary artists like Jimmy Page, Pete Townshend, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and more. Ultimately, “Play Guitar” is a testament to both the enduring appeal of the electric guitar as well as its incredible impact on popular music as we know it today.
Anyone Can Play Guitar (1993) – Radiohead
Anyone Can Play Guitar is a song by the English rock band Radiohead, released as the second single from their debut album Pablo Honey (1993). The song was written by guitarist Jonny Greenwood and singer Thom Yorke, and features a guitar solo from Greenwood. The lyrics of the song are about the frustrations of being a musician, and how anyone can learn to play guitar if they set their mind to it. The song was well-received by critics, and is often considered to be one of the best songs from Pablo Honey. In 2009, Rolling Stone ranked it at number 9 on their list of the 100 Greatest Guitar Songs of All Time.
Electric Guitar (1979) – The Talking Heads
The Electric Guitar is a song by the Talking Heads, released in 1979. The song is about, well, electric guitars. More specifically, it’s about how awesome they are. The narrator of the song is clearly in awe of the instrument, and he extols its many virtues throughout the course of the song. He talks about how electric guitars can make you feel, how they can make you dance, and how they can make you rock. In short, he makes a strong case for why the electric guitar is the best instrument ever invented. By the end of the song, it’s hard to argue with him. The Electric Guitar is a fun, catchy tune that will leave any guitar lover feeling pumped up and ready to rock.
Big Riff And Mando (1989) – Jethro Tull
Big Riff And Mando is a song about guitars, and it highlights the importance of these instruments within the music world. The song begins with an energetic guitar riff that is joined by thrilling mandolin accompaniment, conveying a sense of passion and excitement. Throughout the track, Jethro Tull’s signature brand of intricate guitar work shines through, pairing perfectly with the catchy melodies of the mandolin. Ultimately, Big Riff And Mando serves to celebrate guitars as essential tools for musicians, hinting at all of the incredible sounds that can be created with these instruments in hand.
My Guitar Lies Bleeding In My Arms (1995) – Bon Jovi
My Guitar Lies Bleeding in My Arms is a bittersweet ballad about the complicated relationship between guitars and their owners. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of an artist who is tormented by his desire for this beautiful guitar, both in terms of its physical allure and its musical potential. He yearns to pick it up and lay his hands on it again, but at the same time he fears that the guitar may be too temperamental or difficult to play properly. Despite these doubts, he pushes forward and eventually comes to accept that this guitar has become a part of him, just as he has become a part of it.
Jail Guitar Doors (1977) – The Clash
Jail Guitar Doors was first introduced by the iconic punk band, The Clash, in 1977. This unique song tells the story of a man who turns his life around after being given the opportunity to learn to play the guitar in jail. Throughout the track, The Clash conveys their belief that music has the power to transform and heal even the most troubled individuals. They demonstrate this idea by describing how playing guitar helped their protagonist overcome his various struggles, both within himself and with others.
Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
Sweet Home Alabama is one of the most iconic songs in rock history, with its catchy riffs and energetic rhythms have made it a true classic. But what many people may not realize is that this song is also about guitars: specifically, the Fender Telecaster electric guitar, which has long been a favorite among musicians. The lyrics of Sweet Home Alabama are peppered with references to guitar playing, from the way in which the music flows like “electric wires” to the mention of legendary musician Muddy Waters and his signature Fender Telecaster. Through its lyrics and electrifying sound, Sweet Home Alabama reigns as one of the most noteworthy songs about guitars in all of music.
Guitar Man (1967) – Elvis Presley
Guitar Man is a classic rock song by Elvis Presley that explores the idea of guitars as works of art. Through its catchy melody and well-crafted lyrics, the song showcases the beauty and power of six-stringed instruments, encouraging listeners to explore and appreciate their unique sound and style. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting out on your guitar journey, Guitar Man is sure to resonate with anyone who appreciates the magic of guitars. So turn up the volume, grab your instrument, and join Elvis in celebrating this timeless musical treasure!
Pickin’ Time (1968) – Johnny Cash
“Pickin’ Time” is a song written and performed by Johnny Cash. The song was released on his 1968 album, At Folsom Prison. “Pickin’ Time” is a song about guitars and the joy of playing them. The song features Cash’s trademark acoustic guitar sound and is one of his most beloved tracks. In the song, Cash pays tribute to the instrument that he has played for so many years. He sings about the different ways that guitars can be played and how they can bring people together. “Pickin’ Time” is a classic Johnny Cash song that is loved by fans all over the world.
Guitar (2007) – Prince
Guitar is a song by legendary musician Prince that highlights the key role that guitars have played in shaping popular music over the years. Written in 2007, shortly after Prince had parted ways with his band The Revolution and embarked on a solo career, Guitar includes lyrics about different types of guitars and their unique sonic qualities. It also highlights how the unique sounds produced by these instruments can elicit powerful emotions from audiences at live shows. With its soaring guitar riffs and driving rhythms, Guitar is an ode to an instrument that has played a critical role in many of Prince’s most iconic songs, and it stands as a testament to the lasting influence this versatile instrument has had in modern music.
Talking Guitar Blues (1983) – Paul Rogers
“Talking Guitar Blues” was released in 1983 as a single by British singer-songwriter Paul Rodgers. The song is a bluesy ode to the guitar, and it features some of Rodgers’ best guitar work. In the opening verses, Rodgers pays tribute to the history of the instrument, from its roots in African music to its development in the United States. He also celebrates the guitar’s versatility, praising its ability to be played both alone and in a band. In the chorus, Rodgers declares that the guitar is his “one true love,” and he promises to never let it down. “Talking Guitar Blues” is a celebration of all things guitar, and it remains one of Rodgers’ most popular songs.
Why Pick On Me (1966) – The Fabulous Standells
The song “Why Pick on Me” by The Fabulous Standells is a song about guitars. The song starts off with the guitar picking on the speaker, and then the speaker asks why the guitar has to pick on him. The speaker then goes on to say that he doesn’t understand why the guitar picks on him, and that he just wants to be left alone.The song then ends with the speaker asking the guitar to please stop picking on him.
Johnny Guitar (1977) – The Runaways
Johnny Guitar is a song by The Runaways, released in 1977. The song is about, unsurprisingly, guitars. More specifically, it is about the feelings that a guitar can evoke in a person. The lyrics talk about how a guitar can make a person feel powerful and confident, as well as how it can be used as a tool for seduction. The song has been praised for its catchy melody and catchy lyrics, and has become a popular choice for covers by other artists. In recent years, the song has been featured in a number of films and television shows, furthering its popularity. Whether you are a fan of The Runaways or simply enjoy good guitar-based pop songs, Johnny Guitar is definitely worth checking out.
Wonderland – Oasis
Wonderland by Oasis is a song about guitars. The lyrics talk about how the instrument can make you feel different emotions, from happiness to sadness. The song also mentions how guitars can be used to create different kinds of music, from rock to country. It is clear that the band members have a deep love and appreciation for the instrument. In the song, they talk about how guitars can bring people together, regardless of their differences. Wonderland is a beautiful tribute to the power of music, and it is clear that the band members feel very passionately about their art form.
Margaritaville (1978) – Jimmy Buffet
Jimmy Buffet’s “Margaritaville” is a classic song about relaxation and escapism. The lyrics paint a picture of a carefree lifestyle, surrounded by sunshine, margaritas, and good company. The song also makes references to popular culture, including the movie “Casablanca” and the television show ” Taxi.” While the song is clearly light-hearted, it also contains a deeper message about the power of music to transport us to another place. The catchy melody and easygoing rhythm are instantly recognizable, and they create an atmosphere that is both fun and nostalgic. For many listeners, “Margaritaville” is the perfect summertime anthem.
Electric Dreams (1984) – Phil Oakley
Electric Dreams is a iconic 1984 song by British new wave musician Phil Oakley. Written primarily as a tribute to his love of electric guitars, the song is an upbeat rock anthem that blends elements of classic psychedelic and blues-rock styles. With its catchy hooks, memorable riffs, and driving rhythm section, Electric Dreams has become an essential track for guitar aficionados around the world. While it may not be one of Oakley’s most popular songs, Electric Dreams continues to win over new fans with each passing year, proving that this classic tune will always be a source of inspiration for guitar players everywhere.
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