“Play Real Songs with Just a Few Chords (and a Little Practice)“
… You’ve started your ukulele journey — or you’re about to — and now you’re wondering:
“What songs can I actually play?”
This list includes 10 beginner-friendly songs — from timeless classics to modern hits — all chosen because they’re simple, satisfying, and fun to strum. Even better? Most are available inside the Kala Ukulele App, where you can follow along with tutorials, adjust the tempo, and play at your own pace.
What Makes These Songs Great for Beginners?
These songs were chosen because they:
Use easy chords like C, Am, F and G
Have repetitive, familiar progressions
Include fun rhythms that match the ukulele’s feel
Help build confidence early on
Good news:
You don’t need to be an expert to play music you love!
10 Easy Ukulele Songs You Can Learn Now
All of the following are playable with basic chords and minimal strumming. You’ll find many of these in the Kala Ukulele App — complete with chord diagrams, strum-along tutorials, and built-in tempo control.
1. Riptide – Vance Joy
Chords: Am – G – C
The ultimate ukulele anthem. Catchy, fast-paced, and beginner-friendly. Once you get the rhythm, you’ll want to play it over and over.
2. I’m Yours – Jason Mraz
Chords: C – G – Am – F
Bright, breezy, and a perfect fit for the ukulele’s vibe. A great song for practicing down-up strumming patterns.
3. Let It Be – The Beatles
Chords: C – G – Am – F
A powerful and simple classic. Its repeating structure makes it easy to follow and great for chord transitions.
4. Stand By Me – Ben E. King
Chords: G – Em – C – D
A soulful, timeless song. These four chords are perfect for beginners and make for great group play or solo practice.
5. What’s Up – 4 Non Blondes
Chords: G – Am – C
An empowering ’90s hit with a looping chord progression. Ideal for strumming practice and building stamina.
6. Before You Go – Lewis Capaldi
Chords: C – Am – F – G
Emotional and melodic, this song teaches expressive strumming and slower playing — perfect for late-night practice.
7. Budapest – George Ezra
Chords: G – C – D
A rhythmic and fun song to play with a driving beat and simple chord switches. Great for gaining confidence in chord changes.
8. Amazing Grace – Traditional
Chords: C – F – G
A gentle, familiar melody that’s ideal for both strumming and fingerpicking. Great for learning dynamics and timing.
9. Happy Birthday – Traditional
Chords: C – G – F
A must-know tune for ukulele players! Simple, useful, and always a hit at parties.
10. Million Reasons – Lady Gaga
Chords: C – G – Am – F
Beautiful and powerful, this slow ballad is perfect for emotional expression and developing controlled strumming.
Learn These Songs in the Kala Ukulele App
The Kala Ukulele App is like having a personal teacher with you — anytime you want to play. Here’s why beginners love it:
🎵 Step-by-step video tutorials
🎼 Chord diagrams that light up in real-time
⏱️ Adjustable tempo settings
🎧 Built-in tuner and play-along mode
⭐ Track your progress and build skills gradually
FAQs:
Easy Songs & Beginner Ukulele Tips
Not at all! Start with songs that use just 3 or 4 chords. As you learn more songs, you’ll naturally expand your chord knowledge.
It may take time to match the exact tempo. The Kala App lets you slow things down until you’re ready to play full speed.
“Riptide” is a great choice. It uses just three easy chords and has a fun rhythm that beginners love.
With consistent practice (10–15 minutes a day), you can learn your first full song within a week or two — sometimes even sooner!
The app offers beginner-friendly lessons with real-time feedback, strum guides, and tempo control. It’s designed to make learning easier, faster, and more fun — especially for first-time players.
ADD a link to Kala App article here!!Read more
🎵 Let’s Play Something!
You don’t need to be a pro to make music. These 10 songs are perfect for beginners — and a great way to fall in love with your ukulele. Whether you’re strumming at home or sharing a tune with friends, the goal is to have fun and keep learning.
🎯 Ready to try your first full song?
Open the Kala Ukulele App, tune up, and let’s make music together. 🎶