Master Barre Chords: 29 Essential Songs to Learn

Updated at: 21/03/2025

Mastering barre chords unlocks a universe of iconic rock anthems, and this list celebrates the songs that make the challenging technique worthwhile. While no single artist or album defines this journey, the songs chosen represent a diverse range of rock legends, showcasing the versatility and power of barre chords across different subgenres. From the soaring, emotional depth of certain power ballads to the raw energy of grunge anthems, this selection offers a compelling progression for aspiring guitarists. Think of the satisfying payoff after tackling that tricky chord progression – the feeling of accomplishment is worth the effort.

This isn't just about learning chords; it's about experiencing the raw emotion and undeniable impact of some of rock's most unforgettable tunes. These songs, each a testament to the power of guitar-driven music, represent a cross-section of rock history and stylistic approaches. Whether you're captivated by the melodic complexity or the raw, visceral power of these tracks, learning them will significantly expand your playing ability and appreciation of rock music’s evolution. Prepare to be challenged, inspired, and ultimately rewarded by mastering these timeless classics.

  • November Rain
    1

    November Rain

    Guns N' Roses

    1991

    Use Your Illusion I

  • Smells Like Teen Spirit
    2

    Smells Like Teen Spirit

    Nirvana

    1991

    Nevermind (Remastered)

  • Sweet Child O' Mine
    3

    Sweet Child O' Mine

    Guns N' Roses

    1987

    Appetite For Destruction

  • Back In Black
    4

    Back In Black

    AC/DC

    1980

    Back In Black

  • Creep
    5

    Creep

    Radiohead

    1992

    Pablo Honey

  • Wonderwall
    6

    Wonderwall

    Oasis

    1995

    (What's The Story) Morning Glory? (Deluxe Remastered Edition)

  • Hotel California
    7

    Hotel California

    Eagles

    1976

    Hotel California (2013 Remaster)

  • Hey Jude
    8

    Hey Jude

    The Beatles

    1968

    With The Beatles (Remastered)

  • Sultans Of Swing
    9

    Sultans Of Swing

    Dire Straits

    1978

    Dire Straits

  • Imagine
    10

    Imagine

    John Lennon

    1971

    Imagine

  • Don't Stop Believin'
    11

    Don't Stop Believin'

    Journey

    1981

    Escape (2022 Remaster)

  • Under the Bridge
    12

    Under the Bridge

    Red Hot Chili Peppers

    1991

    Blood Sugar Sex Magik (Deluxe Edition)

  • Hallelujah
    13

    Hallelujah

    Leonard Cohen

    1984

    Various Positions

  • All Along the Watchtower
    14

    All Along the Watchtower

    Jimi Hendrix

    1968

    Electric Ladyland

  • Let It Be
    15

    Let It Be

    The Beatles

    1970

    Let It Be (Remastered)

  • With Or Without You
    16

    With Or Without You

    U2

    1987

    The Joshua Tree (Super Deluxe)

  • Stairway to Heaven
    17

    Stairway to Heaven

    Led Zeppelin

    1971

    Led Zeppelin IV (Deluxe Edition)

  • Free Fallin'
    18

    Free Fallin'

    Tom Petty

    1989

    Full Moon Fever

  • Brown Eyed Girl
    19

    Brown Eyed Girl

    Van Morrison

    1967

    Blowin' Your Mind!

  • Layla
    20

    Layla

    Eric Clapton

    1992

  • Cocaine
    21

    Cocaine

    Eric Clapton

    1977

  • Blackbird
    22

    Blackbird

    The Beatles

    1968

    The Beatles (Remastered)

  • Hey Joe
    23

    Hey Joe

    Jimi Hendrix

    1966

    Are You Experienced

  • I Shot the Sheriff
    24

    I Shot the Sheriff

    Bob Marley

    1973

  • Brown Sugar
    25

    Brown Sugar

    The Rolling Stones

    1971

    Sticky Fingers (Remastered)

  • Wild Thing
    26

    Wild Thing

    The Troggs

    1966

  • Louie Louie
    27

    Louie Louie

    The Kingsmen

    1963

    True Blue

  • Polly
    28

    Polly

    Nirvana

    1991

  • Black
    29

    Black

    Pearl Jam

    1991

    Ten