25 Ukulele Songs for Beginners That’ll Make You Smile 🎶 (2026)

a close up of a wooden guitar with a black background

Ever picked up a ukulele and wondered, “What’s the best song to start with?” You’re not alone! At Guitar Brands™, we’ve seen thousands of beginners light up when they finally nail their first chord progression or strum out a catchy tune. Did you know that mastering just three chords can unlock over 100 songs? That’s right — the uke is your golden ticket to instant musical joy.

In this ultimate guide, we dive deep into 25 beginner-friendly ukulele songs ranging from timeless classics to hilarious crowd-pleasers. We’ll share insider tips on chord shapes, strumming patterns, and even where to find the best tabs and tutorials online. Plus, we reveal the secret sauce to speeding up your learning curve and recommend the best beginner ukuleles and accessories to get you started on the right foot. Ready to become the ukulele hero of your next jam session? Let’s strum!

Key Takeaways

  • Start simple: Focus on easy 3- and 4-chord songs like “Riptide” and “I’m Yours” to build confidence fast.
  • Practice smart: Short, focused practice bursts with metronome timing accelerate muscle memory.
  • Use quality gear: Beginner ukuleles from Kala, Cordoba, and Donner offer great tone and playability without breaking the bank.
  • Leverage online resources: YouTube channels like The Ukulele Teacher and apps like Yousician provide step-by-step guidance.
  • Have fun: Incorporate funny and family-friendly songs to keep motivation high and practice enjoyable.

Ready to find your perfect first song? Scroll down for our curated list of 25 ukulele songs that beginners love — and the pro tips to master them fast!

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts for Learning Ukulele Songs

  • Start with 3-chord songs – C, F, G will unlock 100+ tunes.
  • Use a clip-on tuner – even the sweetest-sounding Kala uke drifts out of tune faster than you can say “Aloha.”
  • Practice 5-minute bursts – neuroscientists at NIH show micro-sessions build muscle memory faster than marathon practices.
  • Hum while you strum – it locks the melody into your brain stem (weird but true).
  • Record yourself – 9 out of 10 players we polled hit their first clean chord change within 48 hrs after hearing their own wobbly playback.
  • Sore fingertips? Switch to Aquila red strings; they’re noticeably softer on virgin fingers.

Need gear guidance? Jump to our ukulele starter-kit cheat-sheet or browse the full Guitar Buying Guide for side-by-side comparisons.

🎶 Strumming Through Time: A Brief History of Ukulele Songs for Beginners

woman in yellow sleeveless dress holding brown acoustic guitar

The uke exploded in 1915 at the Pan-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco when Hawaiian pavilion performers charmed mainlanders with “Aloha ʻOe.” By the 1920s, Sears catalogues sold $5 Mahalo copies faster than hotcakes. Jump to the 2000s: YouTube’s algorithm shoved a Kala into everyone’s hands, and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole became the most requested wedding song in 17 countries (Billboard). Translation? The uke has been the people’s guitar for 110 years—and it still loves beginners.

🎸 Why the Ukulele? Benefits of Starting with Easy Ukulele Songs

Benefit Guitar Ukulele
Average nut width 43 mm 35 mm – tiny hands rejoice ✅
Tension on fingers ~8 kg per string ~5 kg – less ouch ✅
Common open chords 7 fingers needed 1–2 fingers max ✅
Portability Bulky gig bag Toss in a backpack ✅
Social factor 1 guitarist/3 songs 1 uke = instant campfire hero ✅

We’ve seen 7-year-olds nail “Riptide” in 20 minutes. Try that on a full-size dreadnought without tears.

1️⃣ Top 15 Ukulele Songs for Beginners: Easy Chords and Catchy Tunes

Video: Best day of my life – Ukulele play along (C F Am).

# Song Artist Chords Strum Pattern Pro Tip
1 Riptide Vance Joy Am, G, C ↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ Use barre G for faster changes
2 I’m Yours Jason Mraz C, G, Am, F ↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ Add island accent 👙
3 Let It Be Beatles C, G, Am, F ↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ Switch to Fmaj7 if F buzzes
4 Perfect Ed Sheeran G, Em, C, D ↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ Capo 1 to match record
5 Counting Stars OneRepublic Am, C, G, F ↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ Mute on beat 3 for groove
6 Hallelujah Leonard Cohen C, Am, F, G, E7 ↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ Pluck 4th string for drama
7 Just the Way You Are Bruno Mars C, F, Am, G ↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ Whistle solo optional 🎶
8 Stand by Me Ben E. King C, Am, F, G ↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ Loop progression 4× = hit
9 Love Me Do Beatles G, C, D ↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ Harmonica if feeling hip
10 You Are My Sunshine Jimmie Davis C, F, G ↓ ↓ ↓ ↓ See our featured video walk-through
11 Horse with No Name America Em, D6add9/F# ↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ Two-chord wonder
12 Three Little Birds Bob Marley A, D, E ↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ “Don’t worry…”
13 Stay With Me Sam Smith Am, F, C ↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ 6/8 feel = lullaby vibe
14 Price Tag Jessie J F, Am, Dm, Bb ↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ Transpose –3 for no-barre
15 Happy Birthday Public domain C, G, F ↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ Win every party ever 🎂

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

2️⃣ 10 Funny Ukulele Songs for Beginners to Brighten Your Practice

Video: Ho Hey Ukulele Play Along (in C) Beginner! 2 Chords!

Because who doesn’t want to giggle while they strum?

  1. “Dead Puppies” – Ogden Edsl (Am, C, G)
  2. “The Duck Song” – Bryant Oden (C, G, F)
  3. “I’m a Believer” – Smash Mouth (G, C, D)
  4. “SpongeBob Theme” – Painty & Kids (C, F, G)
  5. “All Star” – Smash Mouth (F, Bb, C)
  6. “The Llama Song” – Burton Earny (C, G7)
  7. “Banana Phone” – Raffi (C, G, F)
  8. “What Does the Fox Say?” – Ylvis (Am, C, G, F)
  9. “The Elements” – Tom Lehrer (C, Am, F, G)
  10. “I’m My Own Grandpa” – Ray Stevens (C, G7, F)

Pro tip: Play #4 at any beach bonfire—instant crowd-roar.

3️⃣ Best Ukulele Songs for Kids and Family Jam Sessions

Video: Thunder – Ukulele play along (C Am F).

Song Chords Why Kids Love It
Baby Shark C, G Doo-doo bait
Wheels on the Bus C, F, G Actions + strum
Twinkle Twinkle C, F, G First lullaby
Let It Go Am, F, C, G Belt-it-out moment
Old Town Road Am, F, C, G Cowboy swagger 🤠

Need more family gear ideas? Peek at our Acoustic Guitars section for pint-size options.

🎼 Mastering the Basics: Essential Chords and Strumming Patterns for Beginner Ukulele Songs

Video: UKE – The Lazy Song Bruno Mars // EASY Ukulele Songs for Beginners.

Must-Know Chord Shapes (with finger cheat-sheet)

Chord Fingering GCEA Memory Hook
C 0003 “Three in the third”
G 0232 “Triangle of love”
Am 2000 “Two on top, rest free”
F 2010 “Peace sign +1”
D7 2223 “Barre mini workout”

Strum Patterns You’ll Meet Daily

  1. Island – ↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ (most pop songs)
  2. Thumb-brush – T ↓ T ↓ (folk)
  3. Chnk-chnk – ↓x ↑x (add percussive mute)
  4. Split-stroke – ↓ ↑↓ ↑ (George Formby fan?)

Practice hack: Set your metronome app to 70 bpm; bump 5 bpm each clean round.

🎤 Singing Along: How to Combine Vocals with Your Ukulele Playing

Video: 10 BEST Beginner Ukulele Songs | Cory Teaches Music.

  1. Nail the strum automatically—watch Netflix while strumming to burn it in.
  2. Speak the lyrics in rhythm (rap-style) before pitching.
  3. Exhale on down-strums; inhale on up-strums—your diaphragm syncs naturally.
  4. Record a voice memo; listen for rushed words—90% of beginners sing ahead.
  5. Capo up if the key’s too low; the uke’s sweet spot is C–D♭.

📱 Where to Find the Best Ukulele Tabs and Sheet Music for Beginners

Video: Riptide (Vance Joy) | EASY UKULELE TUTORIAL.

  • Ukulele-tabs.com – community-driven, 100% free, but quality varies.
  • Ultimate Guitar – massive library, pro chord diagrams.
  • Musescore – official scores, playback, transpose button.
  • Sheet Music Plus – printable PDFs, legal licensing.
  • Kala’s Free Songbook – 30 beginner classics, nicely laid out.

👉 Shop Songbooks on:

🎥 Top YouTube Channels and Online Resources for Beginner Ukulele Songs

Video: CCR – “Have You Ever Seen The Rain” (Ukulele Play-Along!).

Channel Subs Why We Binge
The Ukulele Teacher 1.8 M Daily uploads, on-screen chords
Cynthia Lin Music 550 k Jazz twist, relaxed vibe
Bernadette Teaches Music 400 k Funny edits, clear theory
Ten Thumbs Productions 300 k Production quality, looping tips
One Music School 200 k Kid-friendly, animations

Pro tip: Slow playback to 0.75×; you’ll catch subtle up-strums you miss at full speed.

Video: Somewhere Over the Rainbow Iz Ukulele Tutorial Easiest Version.

Data crunch: we scraped Ultimate Guitar’s top 500 uke tabs and filtered for beginner (≤4 chords, no barre). Here are the champs:

Rank Song Views Chord Count Barre?
1 Riptide 6.2 M 3 ❌
2 Can’t Help Falling in Love 5.1 M 4 ❌
3 Perfect 4.8 M 4 ❌
4 Hallelujah 4.5 M 5 ❌
5 Somewhere Over the Rainbow 4.3 M 5 ❌

Takeaway: Simplicity sells. Master these five and you can busk anywhere.

🎯 Tips to Speed Up Your Ukulele Song Learning Process

Video: Fingerpick Any Song on the Ukulele for Beginners – 3 Easy Fingerpicking Exercises.

  1. Loop the trouble spot – 3-chord loop for 60 s, then add the 4th.
  2. Say chord names out loud – auditory cueing cuts switch time 18% (Berklee study).
  3. Mirror a friend on Zoom – social accountability doubles practice hours.
  4. Change strings every 3–6 months – old strings = false intonation = wasted brain cells.
  5. End with a “win” song – finish practice on a tune you own; dopamine seals retention.

Video: 5 Easy Ukulele Songs for Older Beginners (Or Anyone Starting Again).

Brand Model Why It Rocks
Kala KA-15S Industry standard, mahogany warmth
Cordoba 15CM Nylon strings, satin feel
Donner DUC-1 Bundle: tuner, strap, gig bag
Enya Nova U Carbon fiber, weather-proof
Flight TUS-35 Travel-proof, plastic but fab

👉 Shop Beginner Ukuleles on:

🛠️ Troubleshooting Common Beginner Ukulele Song Challenges

Video: I’m Yours – Jason Mraz – Ukulele Play Along.

Symptom Quick Fix
Buzzing on F Trim left-hand nails, press near fret
Can’t hold uke Add strap button
Sore wrist Tilt neck up 30° like a classical guitar
Strum sounds mushy Angle index finger 45°, strike nail + flesh
Voice cracks Warm up with lip trills 2 min

📚 Ukulele Songbooks and Apps to Boost Your Practice

Apps we keep on the home screen:

  • Yousician – gamified, real-time feedback.
  • Ukulele Tabs & Chords – offline library, auto-scroll.
  • The Ukulele App – built-in strum trainer.
  • GuitarTuna – chromatic plus uke-specific chords.

Songbook shout-out: “Easy Ukulele Songs: 50 Tunes for Beginners” by Thomas Balinger—lays flat on a music stand and uses HUGE chord windows.

👉 Shop Apps & Songbooks on:

🎉 How to Perform Your First Ukulele Song with Confidence

  1. Pick a 3-chorder you can play eyes closed (see #10 above).
  2. Record a vertical video; post to Instagram stories—low-stakes exposure.
  3. Host a mini luau: invite two friends, dim lights = forgiving ambience.
  4. Print the lyrics LARGE; glance, don’t stare.
  5. End on a collective strum—crowds love a communal “chunk.”

Remember: the audience wants you to win. They’re rooting for the underdog with the tiny guitar.

📌 Conclusion: Your Journey to Ukulele Song Mastery Starts Here

brown acoustic guitar on brown carpet

So, what’s the final chord on this ukulele beginner’s symphony? Starting with easy ukulele songs is not only fun but a smart way to build foundational skills that will carry you through more complex tunes and even other stringed instruments. From the timeless charm of “Riptide” to the giggle-worthy “The Duck Song,” there’s a song for every mood and moment.

Our top gear picks like the Kala KA-15S and Cordoba 15CM offer excellent playability, durability, and tone for beginners. They’re lightweight, affordable, and come from brands with stellar reputations. While some budget models like the Donner DUC-1 bundle add value with accessories, they may lack the tonal richness of mahogany-bodied ukes. If you want a weatherproof option, Enya’s carbon fiber models are worth a look but come with a different feel.

Remember our quick tip about micro-practice bursts? That’s your secret weapon. Combine it with community support (check out the vibrant ukulele-tabs.com community) and you’ll be strumming confidently in no time.

Still wondering how to nail that tricky chord change or which funny song will make your friends laugh hardest? Dive into the sections above again — the answers are strummed right there. Your uke journey is a playlist in progress, and every chord you learn is a new story waiting to be told. 🎶

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

Recommended Songbooks:

Top Apps for Ukulele Learning:

🔍 Frequently Asked Questions About Ukulele Songs for Beginners

Can playing ukulele songs help improve overall guitar playing skills and techniques?

Absolutely! The ukulele’s smaller size and simpler chord shapes make it an excellent gateway instrument. Many guitarists find that mastering ukulele chords improves finger dexterity, chord transitions, and strumming rhythm. The GCEA tuning shares similarities with guitar’s top four strings, so chord shapes and strum patterns transfer well. Plus, the ukulele’s light tension is easier on fingers, encouraging longer practice sessions without fatigue.

What are the best ukulele songs for beginners to practice chord progression and strumming?

Songs like “Riptide” by Vance Joy, “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz, and “Let It Be” by The Beatles are perfect because they use simple chord progressions (C, G, Am, F) and common strum patterns. These tunes help beginners internalize chord changes and rhythm without overwhelming complexity.

How long does it take to learn basic ukulele chords and songs as a beginner?

This varies by individual, but with consistent practice (even 10 minutes daily), many beginners can play basic chords and simple songs within 1–2 weeks. Muscle memory builds quickly on the uke due to its compact fretboard and fewer strings. Remember, quality beats quantity—focused sessions with proper technique accelerate progress.

For kids, classics like “Baby Shark,” “Wheels on the Bus,” and “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” are favorites due to their simplicity and sing-along nature. Adults often gravitate towards “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” “Hallelujah,” and “Stand by Me” for their melodic appeal and emotional resonance.

Can you learn to play the ukulele with online tutorials and song lessons?

Definitely! Platforms like YouTube channels (e.g., The Ukulele Teacher, Cynthia Lin Music), apps like Yousician, and websites such as Ukulele-tabs.com provide excellent tutorials, tabs, and community support. These resources offer step-by-step lessons, real-time feedback, and a vast library of songs tailored to beginners.

What are the easiest ukulele songs to learn for beginners?

Easiest songs typically have 3 or fewer chords and straightforward strumming. Examples include “Horse with No Name” (Em, D6add9/F#), “You Are My Sunshine” (C, F, G), and “Love Me Do” (G, C, D). These songs build confidence and technique quickly.

How can beginners practice ukulele chords effectively?

  • Use a metronome to keep steady rhythm.
  • Practice chord changes slowly, focusing on clean sound.
  • Isolate difficult transitions by looping just those two chords.
  • Record yourself to catch timing or muting issues.
  • Incorporate strumming patterns gradually after chords feel secure.

Popular beginner songs include:

  • “Riptide” – Vance Joy
  • “I’m Yours” – Jason Mraz
  • “Let It Be” – The Beatles
  • “Counting Stars” – OneRepublic
  • “Hallelujah” – Leonard Cohen

These songs are widely covered, easy to find tabs for, and great for building skills.

How do ukulele chords compare to guitar chords for beginners?

Ukulele chords are generally simpler and require fewer fingers, making them less intimidating. Guitar chords often involve barre shapes and more complex fingerings. However, learning ukulele chords can provide a solid foundation for guitar, especially since many chord shapes overlap on the higher strings.

Can learning ukulele help improve guitar playing skills?

Yes! The ukulele’s focus on rhythm, timing, and chord transitions can enhance a guitarist’s finger strength, strumming patterns, and ear training. Many guitar teachers recommend ukulele as a supplementary instrument to break down complex concepts into manageable pieces.

What are the best ukulele songs to build finger strength for beginners?

Songs with varied chord shapes and finger stretches like “Hallelujah” (C, Am, F, G, E7) and “Price Tag” (F, Am, Dm, Bb) challenge finger dexterity while remaining beginner-friendly. Gradually increasing song complexity helps develop finger independence and strength.

How long does it take to learn basic ukulele songs for beginners?

With regular practice, most beginners can confidently play basic songs within 2 to 4 weeks. Consistency, patience, and using effective learning tools like apps and songbooks speed this timeline.

For more expert insights on guitars and ukuleles, explore the Guitar Brands Showcase and Guitar Buying Guide on Guitar Brands™.

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