Are you new to the ukulele? Have you felt overwhelmed trying to switch between a lot of chords in the songs you play? Look no further because this is a list of seven simple ukulele songs that you can play with only two or three chords. These songs span many genres, so there is something here for everyone.

Let’s take a look at the list so you can get your strumming on!

Lava – Disney Pixar

Let’s start our simple ukulele songs list with a song that has some Hawaiian flair! Lava is from the Disney Pixar Animated Short Film and has only three chords F, C, and G7. It’s super simple to play! Terry Carter’s version of Lava has a unique strum pattern that he teaches you in the next tutorial that keeps the song interesting.

You can vary it with other strum patterns, too. It’s such a happy tune and is sure to bring a smile to your face.

Ho Hey – The Lumineers

This catchy song by The Lumineers only has two chords! You only need to know Am and C. The Lumineers is a folk rock band and this was their breakthrough hit in 2012. Wesley Shultz, frontman in the Lumineers, explained how the song came to be. In an interview with American Songwriter in 2012, he explained just what he was trying to achieve. “That song was an effort to get under people’s skin at shows in Brooklyn, where everyone is pretty indifferent,” he said. “And I figured if we could punctuate it with shouts we might get someone’s attention.”

It definitely worked! Get someone’s attention and start playing this song today.

Roar – Katy Perry

If you’ve ever watched videos by Cynthia Lin, you’ll know she has a fun personality and beautiful voice. Her play along of Katy Perry’s “Roar” is no exception. This song is all about standing up for yourself and having strength and courage. This song was released in 2013 and has hit number one in many countries.

This is another song that uses only C and Am. Get your roar on and start playing this song today!

Do Your Ears Hang Low?

Did you ever go to summer camp when you were little? You may remember this song which is often sung around campfires or in different children’s programs. It is a delightfully fun song with only the chords C and G. These chords can be difficult for new ukulele players to switch between. The G can just be….awkward!

By singing and playing a fun song like this, you won’t mind practicing switching between the two chords over and over. And your practice will pay off. You can even show off with your favorite niece or nephew and teach them how to play the song, too!

Read More: The Best Ukulele Books For Music Players

Three Little Birds – Bob Marley

It’s time for some Reggae…yeah! This timeless tune by Bob Marley uses the chords C, F, and G. These are also important chords to learn to switch between as they are very common. This song was written by Bob Marley and recorded in 1977.

It is said to be inspired by Jamaica’s beautiful birds. Although the song is decades old, it still resonates with anyone who wants to have hope in the face of troubles.

A Horse with No Name – America

This song is another great tune with only two chords. You will only need to know D and Em to play this. It was released in 1972 by America, a group from England made up of sons of U.S. service members. They sing about the desert landscape of the United States and it’s been featured in many tv shows over the years.

Bad Moon Rising – Creedence Clearwater Revival

Bad Moon Rising was written by John Fogerty and released in 1969. Inspired by an old black and white film about a hurricane destroying some crops but sparing others, this song has been covered by many different artists. It has a remarkably happy tune despite the lyrics. To play this song, you only need to use D, A, and G.

Conclusion

Now you have seven simple songs you can play that will give you a lot of practice with transitioning between just a few chords. Even if you are an experienced player, it can still be fun to kick back and play an easy song.

If you have any questions or want to get to know other ukulele players, check out the Community Forum on ukelikethepros.com. You can also check out the great membership packages for courses, available in monthly and yearly subscriptions. Enjoy playing these easy-breezy songs!