John Mayer is one of those guitarists who makes everything look and sound effortless, right?
But here’s a thought: What if I told you that some of his songs are actually pretty easy to play?
Whether you’re a beginner trying to expand your song list or just a Mayer fan wanting to jam along, here are 15 John Mayer tunes that won’t make you sweat. Promise.
15 Easy John Mayer Songs (With Video Lessons & Tabs)
1. “Gravity”
Ever wonder how Mayer makes “Gravity” sound so soulfully smooth? The good news is that the main riff is actually pretty simple.
It’s slow, bluesy, and lets you really sink into each note without rushing. Once you’ve got the basics, try adding some of those signature Mayer bends and slides. Trust me, this one’s a real crowd-pleaser and incredibly satisfying to play.
2. “Free Fallin’” (Tom Petty Cover)
John Mayer’s cover of Tom Petty’s “Free Fallin’” is a fan favorite—and it’s super easy to play. The strumming pattern is relaxed and laid-back—perfect for beginners. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good sing-along?
No tricky fingerpicking here, just a smooth strum that captures the vibe. Play this at a campfire, and you’re practically a hero. 🙂
Check out tabs to “Free Fallin’”
3. “Who Says”
“Who Says” is the kind of tune that makes you feel like you’re just hanging out with Mayer, strumming in your living room. The rhythm? Straightforward and chill. Want to practice dynamics? Play softer during the verses, then open up a bit more in the chorus.
It’s perfect for those laid-back, introspective moments when you just want to play something that feels right.
4. “Heart of Life”
Ever feel like fingerpicking is just for the pros? Think again. “Heart of Life” is your gateway into Mayer’s style.
The picking pattern is repetitive but simple, so it’s great for building your confidence. Plus, the melody is beautiful and will stick with you long after you’ve finished playing. This one’s perfect for quiet, reflective times.
Don’t worry if you’re new to fingerpicking—this song is totally doable with a bit of practice.
Check out tabs to “Heart of Life”
5. “Daughters”
Here’s the thing about “Daughters”—it’s not about technical skill; it’s about feeling the music.
The strumming pattern is simple, and the tempo is relaxed. This is a song that’s all about connecting with the emotion behind the notes. If you’re looking to work on your expressiveness, this is the song for you.
It’s also a hit at open mics or casual jams, so why not add it to your setlist?
6. “Waiting on the World to Change”
This one’s got a groove that’s just plain fun to play. Simple chords, easy rhythm, big impact. It’s also a great song for practicing your timing and getting that laid-back feel just right.
Plus, isn’t there something timeless about a song that still resonates? Pull this one out at a jam session, and you’ll see what I mean.
Check out tabs to “Waiting on the World to Change”
7. “No Such Thing”
Remember “No Such Thing”? One of Mayer’s early hits, and guess what? It’s a blast to play. The rhythm is catchy, the structure is simple, and it’s one of those feel-good songs that you can’t help but enjoy.
It’s perfect for jamming with friends or playing along with the recording. The chord changes are manageable, so you can focus on having fun. Isn’t that what it’s all about?
Check out tabs to “No Such Thing”
8. “Half of My Heart”
“Half of My Heart” is all about the smooth rhythm and easy chord progressions. Perfect for beginners still getting comfortable with playing and singing at the same time.
The flow of this song is just… nice. It’s one of those tunes that’s fun to play and gives you a great opportunity to practice those chord transitions without stressing. Want something chill? Here you go.
Check out tabs to “Half of My Heart”
9. “Say”
“Say” is one of those songs where simplicity is key. The rhythm is steady, the melody is easy, and the impact is real.
Just a steady strum and some heartfelt singing will make this one shine. Sometimes, less really is more. This is perfect for when you want something easy that still packs an emotional punch.
10. “In the Blood”
One of Mayer’s more recent tracks, “In the Blood” is easy to learn and has a strong emotional core.
Steady rhythm, simple chords, deep connection. It’s one of those songs where the simplicity of the playing allows you to really dig into the lyrics. If you’re looking for something easy to learn but deep to play, this is it.
Check out tabs to “In the Blood”
11. “Love on the Weekend”
“Love on the Weekend” is like a breeze on a summer day – VERY smooth. Perfect for a relaxed jam session where you just want to strum without thinking too much.
Whether you’re playing for yourself or friends, this song is a fun one to have in your back pocket. And honestly, who couldn’t use a bit more of that weekend vibe? 🙂
Check out tabs to “Love on the Weekend”
12. “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room”
“Slow Dancing in a Burning Room” might sound intimidating, but here’s the thing—it’s actually quite accessible once you break it down.
The intro riff is iconic, and once you get it under your fingers, you’ll be hooked. The song has a slow, deliberate pace, so you can really focus on nailing each note.
And come on, doesn’t this song just sound cool no matter how many times you play it?
Check out tabs to “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room”
13. “Something Like Olivia”
“Something Like Olivia” is a fun, bluesy tune that’s perfect for jamming. The rhythm swings, the chords are easy—what more could you want? It’s one of those songs that’s easy to pick up and hard to put down.
The laid-back vibe makes it a joy to play, and it’s a great way to get into Mayer’s bluesier side without getting too technical. Ever feel like just grooving? This one’s for you.
Check out tabs to “Something Like Olivia”
14. “Why Georgia”
“Why Georgia” is a classic Mayer song that’s both easy and satisfying to play. Steady rhythm, simple chord changes, catchy melody.
It’s perfect for practicing your timing and strumming, and it’s always a hit when you play it for others. Honestly, have you ever wondered why Mayer’s songs are so relatable? Play this one, and you’ll get it.
Check out tabs to “Why Georgia”
15. “Your Body Is a Wonderland”
Last but not least, “Your Body Is a Wonderland” is the romantic, easy-to-play tune you need in your repertoire.
Smooth rhythm, simple chords—ideal for beginners. Whether you’re playing it for someone special or just for fun, this song never fails to hit the right note.
It’s also a great song to work on your dynamics, playing softer during the verses and then opening up during the chorus. Perfect for serenading, don’t you think? 😉
Check out tabs to “Your Body Is a Wonderland”
Final Thoughts
Mayer’s music might seem complex at first, but there are plenty of songs that are surprisingly accessible, even for beginners.
These 15 easy John Mayer songs are a great starting point for anyone looking to get into his style without feeling overwhelmed. So grab your guitar, check out the tabs, and start playing! 🎸
And if you’re interested in learning more or seeing these songs in action, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channels for tutorials and gear reviews.