Many of these songs feature familiar chords – and in case you don’t know a certain chord yet, you’ll find that learning a famous tune eases the challenge of learning something new. The answer to this question depends on the song you choose.

This list of 20 famous ukulele songs includes familiar favorites that are easy to play. Try s outhern .ukįor information on free ukulele jam sessions for all abilities in London, visit įor a list of festivals, chords and songs try ukulelehunt.At some point, everyone finds themselves looking for fun songs to play. To order a copy for £11.99 (RRP £14.99) visit LowdownĪround £30. Get Plucky With the Ukulele by Will Grove-White is published by Cassell. Any instrument that can unite those two names must be worth learning.

“ Hendrix started out on one – arguably there’d be no Jimi without the ukulele,” he says. Joni Mitchell, Neil Young and David Byrne play. Tiny Tim made it famous with his 1968 hit Tiptoe Through The Tulips, but its roots are rock’n’roll too, says Grove-White. By the 1920s, millions were sold across America and most households owned one. The ukulele first came to light when Madeiran immigrants brought it to Hawaii in the 19th century. “It’s a great way to meet people, get together, play and sing songs.”Īnd although it’s quickly rewarding, you can take the ukulele to any level – for evidence see the technical virtuosity of ukulele stars James Hill and Jake Shimabukuro on YouTube ( Jake’s version of While My Guitar Gently Weeps has 13 million views). “In this quick fix world where you want instant results, the ukulele is ideal.”

“It’s all about chords, playing four notes at once and strumming them, then singing melody over it,” says Grove-White. Singin’ in the Rain takes just a C and a G7. Then you can play Twist and Shout, Rock Around the Clock and most blues songs. “You can play all the songs in rock’n’roll with just three chords, so you’re quickly busting out tunes.” All you need is C, F and G7.

Free ukulele music notes