So, you wanna play some Smiths tunes on your guitar, huh? Cool choice!
I get it, Johnny Marr’s style can seem, like, intimidating. But trust me, not all Smiths songs are impossible to play.
There’s quite a few that are actually pretty doable for beginners and intermediates. Let’s dive in—grab your guitar and maybe a snack (you’ll need energy for this!).
10 Easy The Smiths Songs To Play On Guitar (With Chords & Tabs)
1. „This Charming Man”
This song is like the holy grail of Smiths tracks. You’ve heard the riff. Everyone’s heard the riff. Guess what? It’s not as hard as it sounds. The chords are simple enough, and the picking pattern is repetitive (in a good way).
It’s fast, though, so your fingers might need a pep talk. 😉 But once you get it? Man, it’s addictive. Seriously, you’ll feel like a rock star even if you’re just jamming in your bedroom.
Learn How to Play This Charming Man
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2. „There Is a Light That Never Goes Out”
Ballads, am I right? They’re dramatic and soulful and honestly, kinda easy to play. This one’s perfect if you’re into the whole heartbroken poet vibe.
It’s mostly open chords, so don’t sweat it. The strumming is chill and forgiving. You don’t need to be a rhythm master for this. Plus, the dreamy sound? Chef’s kiss. You’ll feel so cool strumming this out on a rainy afternoon.
Learn How to Play There Is a Light That Never Goes Out
3. „How Soon Is Now?”
Okay, let’s get real. This song has the tremolo effect, but you don’t need fancy pedals to pull it off. Nope. All you need is determination and some basic sliding chord moves. It’s repetitive—hypnotic, even.
Once you’ve practiced the muted strums, the song kinda plays itself. Maybe not exactly, but you get what I mean. And stripped down? Still sounds amazing.
Learn How to Play How Soon Is Now?
4. „Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want”
Short songs are underrated, IMO. This one’s barely two minutes long, but wow, it packs a punch. The fingerpicking adds a little flair, but don’t let it freak you out. Just take it slow.
The chords are easy-peasy, and you’ll sound super sophisticated when you play it. Bonus: it’s great for showing off without breaking a sweat. 😉
Learn How to Play Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want
5. „Ask”
Let’s talk simplicity. This track is breezy and upbeat, and the chords are so easy it feels like cheating. The rhythm is steady—you can relax and just let the song happen. It’s one of those tracks that’ll put a smile on your face while you play it.
Plus, it’s so catchy, you’ll be humming along before you even realize it. Trust me, you’ll “ask” yourself why you didn’t play this one sooner (sorry, bad pun).
Worth reading: Queen Songs You Need To Learn How To Play!
6. „Bigmouth Strikes Again”
Alright, this one’s a banger. The pace? Fast. The riff? Fun. It might seem a little tricky at first, but don’t let it psych you out. It’s all about consistency.
The driving rhythm is perfect for building stamina, and once you nail the groove, you’ll feel unstoppable. Bonus: this song is perfect for pretending you’re on stage in front of a crowd of adoring fans (we all do it, don’t lie).
Learn How to Play Bigmouth Strikes Again
7. „The Boy With The Thorn In His Side”
This song is pure magic. It’s got this chill, dreamy vibe that’s a joy to play. The rhythm is light and breezy, making it great for beginners.
The chords are straightforward, but the secret sauce is in the dynamics—you’ve gotta feel it. This one’s ideal for practicing that delicate balance between soft strumming and a little oomph. Play it outside under the stars, trust me.
Learn How to Play The Boy With The Thorn In His Side
8. „What Difference Does It Make?”
Power chords for the win! This track is bold and punchy, and it’s a blast to play. The steady tempo is great for working on rhythm, and it’s also a sneaky way to practice dynamics.
Soft verses, loud choruses—you’ll get the hang of it. It’s all about attitude with this one. Just lean into it, and you’ll kill it.
Learn How to Play What Difference Does It Make?
9. „Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now”
Feeling dramatic? Good. This track is slow, moody, and surprisingly easy. The chords are basic, the rhythm isn’t gonna give you nightmares, and the vibe is unmatched.
You can really lean into the whole melancholic thing here. Singing along? Absolutely encouraged. Playing this on a rainy day feels almost too perfect…like, cinematic levels of sad vibes.
Learn How to Play Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now
10. „I Want The One I Can’t Have”
Upbeat and fun—this song just makes you wanna strum. The rhythm is lively, but the chords aren’t gonna stress you out. It’s a great choice for working on consistency and transitions. Also, it’s one of those tracks that feels like it’s giving you a hug.
Weird, right? But true. By the time you’re done, you’ll feel like a pro. Or at least like someone who knows their way around a guitar.
Learn How to Play I Want The One I Can’t Have
Do you prefer heavier tones? Check out this list of easy songs by Foo Fighters!
FAQs
1. Are The Smiths’ songs hard to play on guitar?
Not really, TBH. Sure, Johnny Marr’s a genius, but a lot of their songs are beginner-friendly.
2. Do I need any special gear to sound like The Smiths?
Nope. Clean tone is key. If you’ve got a chorus pedal, cool, but acoustic works just fine.
3. What tuning should I use?
Standard tuning for most of these. Easy-peasy.
4. Which Smiths song should I start with?
“Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want.” It’s simple and sounds fancy.
5. Can I play these songs if I’m a total beginner?
Yes! Start slow, and you’ll be surprised how quickly you improve.
6. What makes Johnny Marr’s guitar style unique?
He’s all about texture and mood. No flashy solos, just pure artistry.
Final Thoughts
The Smiths might seem tough at first, but they’re not as scary as they look. These songs are proof you can channel Johnny Marr without needing wizard-level skills. So, grab that guitar and go for it. Who knows? You might just fall in love with playing all over again. 🙂
