First Songs to Learn on Bass Guitar

So, you’ve got your bass and you’re ready to start jamming? Awesome! Learning songs is one of the best ways to build your skills, improve your timing, and stay motivated. In this guide, we’ll cover some of the easiest and most iconic bass songs that are perfect for beginners!

What Makes a Good Beginner Bass Song?

When starting out, you want songs that:

• Use simple basslines (single notes, easy patterns).
• Have a slow to moderate tempo (so you can follow along).
• Feature recognizable riffs (so they’re fun to play!).
• Use basic techniques like fingerpicking or simple picking.

Top 10 Easy Bass Songs for Beginners

1. “Seven Nation Army” – The White Stripes

• 🎵 Why it’s great: Simple one-string riff that sounds awesome.
• ▶ Main Riff: 7–7–10–7–5–3–2 (played on the A string).

2. “Smoke on the Water” – Deep Purple

• 🎵 Why it’s great: Classic rock riff, super easy to pick up.
• ▶ Main Riff: 0–3–5 / 0–3–6–5 (on the low E string).

3. “Another One Bites the Dust” – Queen

• 🎵 Why it’s great: A funky, groovy bassline that’s easy but iconic.
• ▶ Main Riff: D–D–D–D–C–D (played on A and D strings).

4. “Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson

• 🎵 Why it’s great: A simple but legendary pop bassline.
• ▶ Main Riff: F#–G#–A–F# (played on the E and A strings).

5. “Sunshine of Your Love” – Cream

• 🎵 Why it’s great: A slow, bluesy groove that’s easy to master.
• ▶ Main Riff: 3–3–5–3–0 / 3–3–5–3–0–3 (on the low E string).

6. “Come As You Are” – Nirvana

• 🎵 Why it’s great: Simple, repetitive, and great for getting used to alternate picking.
• ▶ Main Riff: 0–0–1–2–2–1–0 (played on the E string).

7. “Blitzkrieg Bop” – Ramones

• 🎵 Why it’s great: Fast, punky, and a great way to practice picking.
• ▶ Main Riff: A–D–E–D (on the A and D strings).

8. “Feel Good Inc.” – Gorillaz

• 🎵 Why it’s great: Laid-back groove, great for fingerstyle practice.
• ▶ Main Riff: A#–F–G–A# (played on E and A strings).

9. “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” – Joan Jett & The Blackhearts

• 🎵 Why it’s great: Simple and fun to play along with.
• ▶ Main Riff: 3–5 / 3–5–5 (on the E string).

10. “Stand By Me” – Ben E. King

• 🎵 Why it’s great: A smooth, soulful bassline perfect for beginners.
• ▶ Main Riff: G–Em–C–D progression.

Tips for Learning Your First Bass Songs

• 🎯 Start Slow – Play at a comfortable speed before trying full tempo.
• 🎯 Use a Metronome – Helps keep your timing solid.
• 🎯 Play Along with the Track – Helps with ear training and groove.
• 🎯 Practice with Tabs – If you’re not reading music yet, bass tabs are your best friend.

Next Steps: Level Up Your Playing

Once you’ve mastered these songs, try learning:

• 🎵 More challenging riffs (e.g., Red Hot Chili Peppers, Metallica).
• 🎵 Basic slap bass techniques (great for funk & rock).
• 🎵 Walking bass lines (essential for blues & jazz).

👉 Need help with technique? Check out our Beginner’s Guide to Playing Bass.

🔥 Which song are you learning first? Drop a comment below and share your progress! 🚀