Often described as one of the greatest British albums of all time. The Rolling Stones – Let It Bleed is phenomenal. The jangling riffs sound as crisp today as they did 50 years ago. Let’s learn to play some of them on the ukulele. Today we are learning to play Gimme Shelter, Monkey Man and You Can’t …
This is often the first thing that a budding ukulele player wants to ask. Its such a daunting question that some people decide to not even pick up the instrument up! The short answer is no. You don’t need to be able to read music or have any music theory knowledge to start playing the …
Can You Play the Ukulele If You Can’t Read Music? Read More »
It’s my pleasure to introduce you to Sammy Turton, otherwise known as 4StringBoy online. He’s an exceptional ukulele player that immediately caught my attention with his intricate and interesting fingerstyle uke arrangements. We share a remarkably similar taste in music so I thought it would be a great idea to get him on the site …
Fingerstyle Ukulele – 6 Easy Songs You Can Learn Right Now Read More »
My introduction to this song was not the Lynyrd Skynyrd version. I first heard it on a CD that Kerrang! magazine put together called High Voltage – A Brief History of Rock. Loads of bands did cover versions of some classic rock tunes. One of them happened to be Simple Man performed by Deftones. The …
I would say the album that this song is from is my favourite Paramore album. It was a gigantic leap from their early punk/emo days but its one I’m happy they made. The songs just seem so much more refined and better crafted. Let’s learn to play Hard Times on the ukulele. What Are We …
This is one of those songs that I instantly recognised when it came on the radio but I would have zero ideas who the artist was. It wasn’t until I was digging through Spotify’s Feel Good playlist looking for songs to arrange on the uke that I discovered who it was. I then went on …
Feist is known for her humongous hit 1,2,3,4 that seemed to penetrate radio stations in the mid-00s. She also had a lot of success with Mushaboom that equally dominated tv shows and adverts. You may not know the artist but you will undoubtedly recognise the song. Let’s learn to play it on the ukulele. What …
You really begin to appreciate Stevie Wonders musical output when you learn that this song came from his fifteenth album. At that point in time, he hadn’t even released Songs In The Key Of Life yet either. Arguably one of the finest albums from the 70s. The killer riff is instantly recognisable so let’s learn …
These guys arrived to the music scene at just the right time for me. I had freshly turned 18 so going out on a Saturday night with my mates was my only concern. This tune would be rinsed like mad in the clubs and I didn’t mind one bit. Let’s learn to play Golden Skans …
For me this seems to be most ukulele-esque Slayer song. I mean, we could probably try and learn to play Reign In Blood but does anybody even enjoy moving their fingers that fast. Im using a low G for this but it stills sounds reasonable with a high G too. What Are We Learning To …
This is one of them songs that makes me want to get on a motorbike, find a long stretch of road and crank this song up. It’s got a killer intro riff that sounds borderline perfect on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able …
Easily one of the most recognisable piano intros and arguably one of the best songs to come out of the 70s. I had probably heard it before in the background somewhere, but this song really touched me when I saw it on the Almost Famous film. There’s a scene where the band is cruising through …
The guitar prince himself continues to amaze me with his astounding back catalogue. He is an absolute baller on the 6 string so transferring his music onto the 4 string is often difficult. This song, however, was effortless. Let’s learn to play Waiting On The World To Change on the ukulele. What Are We Learning …
One of my unusual obsessions as a teen was The OC. When your a teen growing up in the grim north of England, the sun and beaches of California are somewhat appealing. It also had a killer theme tune. Let’s learn to play Phantom Planets one-hit-wonder California on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To …
I’m one of those people that can’t help but say “Shakira, Shakira” whenever her name is mentioned. Much like I would whenever somebody says Jason Derulo, you know what I’m talking about 🤣. The intro to Hips Don’t Lie is funky as so let’s learn to play it on the ukulele. What Are We Learning …
They were the giants of the nu-metal era, and for good reason. Linkin Park had a real knack for articulating the many emotions you feel throughout life. For me, it took years of listening to them to understand why. They also know their way around a riff or two. Let’s learn to play Numb, Faint …
Learn to Play 3 Linkin Park Songs on the Ukulele Read More »
I first discovered these guys when iTunes gave away Mansard Roof as the free single of the week (Remember when they used to do that?). I was instantly hooked, the pop sensibility merged with the afro rhythms and obvious Paul Simon influence made them a perfect fit for me. This song pretty much compounds everything …
Hold the phone, I just realised this is the first time I have played some Bob Dylan on the ukulele. How on earth has that happened. I listened to his music so much as a teenager. Back when CD shops were a thing I would spend a lot of my time in them pursuing albums. …
I always thought The Strokes had this effortless coolness about them. Everything they put out seems to ooze it. Especially the album that You Only Live Once is from. It had the quick and catchy riffs of the first two albums but they also introduced an arena-size sound too. One big regret of mine is …
They quickly became one of my favourite bands when I first heard them a few years ago. What I admire the most about Twenty One Pilots is the overall artistry beyond the music. They create worlds just to sing about them, and that’s freaking cool to me! Let’s learn to play Holding on to You, …
Learn to Play 3 Twenty One Pilots Songs on the Ukulele Read More »
Interestingly, this song has nothing to do with Kashmir in India at all. Led Zep frontman Robert Plant wrote it while driving on what he described as a “never ending road” in Morocco. Imagine that, back when rockstars didn’t have smart phones to indulge them on these long tour journeys. Let’s learn to play it …
My first introduction to Blondie was during their second wave when they released Maria in 1999. It reached the number one spot in the UK charts, a position they hadn’t occupied in almost 2 decades. It wasn’t until my teen years that I delved into blondie some more and I discovered them to be one …
There may be about 5 songs in the world that instantly put a smile on my face and can change my mood. This generational anthem is undoubtedly one of them. Maybe it’s due to me being 9 years old when it was released, the boulders of real-life hadn’t found their way onto my shoulders yet. …
One of my favourite Weezer licks and it sounds borderline perfect on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able to play by the end of this post. Ukulele Tabs This is a fantastic song to learn as we are incorporating lots of different techniques. …
Any fan of Iron Maiden remembers hearing Fear Of The Dark live at Donnington for the first time. It was a bonus track on a Greatest Hits album that me and my mate went halves for as teenagers. Fast, technical and emotive playing. Enough to make an aspiring guitar playing like myself at that age, …
Blink-182 have been pigeonholed by critics, on numerous occasions, as a teenage band, and of being juvenile. I wouldn’t say it’s a valid criticism at all. Blink-182’s hilariously awkward tales of adolescent love and childish adulthood are a craft in itself. They clearly have an ear for a catchy melody and a killer riff. Let’s …
I’m not sure where and when I first heard this song but I know it was around the time I started learning to play the guitar. My ears immediately started twitching when I heard that wonderful dual harmonising guitar lick. I pretty much sprinted to my acoustic. Let’s learn to play it on the ukulele. …
One of my fondest memories as a teenager was larking about in the pub that my mates parents ran after school. They would close it for an a few hours and we could be allowed to watch sky tv on the big screen, play pool and drink loads of coke. That was when i first …
I was somewhat of a later bloomer to KoRn. They were absolutely getting listened to in my circle of friends but I never gravitated towards them. It wasn’t until I was able to see them live that I really started to appreciate them. They create some serious energy at their shows and goddammit they are …
Whether you heard from the classic Tarantino flick Pulp Fiction or the foot-stomping Black Eyed Peas Pump It. There’s no doubt about it, its an earworm of melody. Let’s learn to play the signature riff of Misirolou on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be …
This is a great finger picking pattern to learn as although it looks complicated. its not super difficult for even the greenest of players. Once you master it, it sounds delightful. What Are We Learning To Play? Ukulele Tabs Firstly, let’s assign the fingers on our strumming hand. Use your thumb for the top two …
I have always found Blink 182 lend themselves really well to the ukulele. When you strip away all the goofiness and silliness, they wrote some fantastic songs. That becomes very evident when you play them very minimally on just a four stringed ukulele. Let’s learn to play my favourite song of theirs, The Rock Show …
I love Soul music and absolutely nobody epitomised it as much as Aretha Franklin did. Her astonishing run of hits from the late 60s earned her the title as The Queen Of Soul. Originally recorded by Otis Redding, Aretha and the producer rearranged the song and turned the lyrics to be from the perspective of …
The music video used to frighten the hell out of me. I thought the man in the bed was some kind of monster or beast like figure. Turns out it’s a war veteran/victim who just wants his pain and suffering to end. Another example of an extremely well crafted Metallica song. Let’s learn to play …
This is one of those songs that I have always avoided as I just thought it would be so simple and naff on the ukulele. I was wrong. The harmonies on the opening lick are just so tasty and it works perfectly on the uke IMO. We have an open C note and if you …
I have always said if I could be immediately proficient on any instrument. By that I mean if I could wake up with 50 years of experience on the instrument of my choice. It would absolutely be the harp. I have always loved the delicate but intricate sounds they create. I’m a huge joanna Newsome …
Aha Shake Heartbreak simply solidifies the thoughts among many (myself included) that the Kings Of Leon are the best rock band to have come out of America for a long, long time. It’s chock-full of lively, driving songs, awash with Caleb’s Southern, twangy drawl, Nathan’s snappy and precise drumming and Matthew and Jared’s solid basslines …
For a lot of the UK followers who are a similar age to me. They will have most likely first heard this song on the Tetley’s teabag advert 🤣. Bill Withers and a cup of tea in the morning is a winning combination so thank you Tetley’s for bringing it into my life. Let’s learn …
This song is originally played on a plucky sounding synth so it works super well on the ukulele. I’m a huge fan of these and I’m gagging for another album from them. For now though, let’s revisit some of their old work and learn to play Lane Boy on the uke. What Are We Learning …
Another song that I discovered from music television back in the day. Most of the music to this song was written while Pantera was hungover during a soundcheck. The lyrics were later added in the studio and they are about lead singer Phil Anselmo’s chronic back pain. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is …
Made famous by that super cool animated video in the late 90s which was actually animated by the band themselves. Its a chord progression but there’s some super unique chords involved. Let’s learn to play it on a ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able …
Grammy award-winning The Black Keys know how to write a good riff, there’s no question about it. One of my favourites is Gold On The Ceiling, a thunderous foot-stomper that’s begging to be played. Let’s learn to play it on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you …
I have Instagram to thank for introducing me to this song. I asked for suggestions of what to play and this came up. I’m glad somebody did as its such a vibe. I love the guitar work and it translates really well to four strings. Let’s learn to play Texas Sun on the ukulele. What …
Another song that I had never heard until somebody on here suggested it to me. I jumped over to YouTube and see it got 50,000,000 views. I press play and I’m exposed to one of the most beautiful acoustic guitar riffs I have ever heard. It sounds equally good on the ukulele too so let’s …
I was lucky to be already a fan of the Red Hot Chili Peppers before they released the By The Way album. So I was able to experience the hype for it when it was released. They released the title track as a single first and my and mates would split our thumbs open trying …
This is quite possibly my favourite song from the 80s. I initially became aware of this band due to hearing them on one of the GTA: Vice City radio stations. Lets learn to play it on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able to …
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I recently discovered an old playlist called “Indie Stuff 2005”. Man, what a decent era in UK music. Guitar bands owned the charts and sublime debut albums like Bloc Party’s Silent Alarm were coming out left, right and centre. Banquet is a certified banger. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of …
It’s quite sad listening to this song sometimes. It sounds so happy but the lyrics are written by somebody so desperately clinging on for life due to their severe depression. One so strong that they would later end their life. It’s so bizarre that it has gone on to become one of those “feel good”songs …
The most iconic Beatles riff of all time? Theres a strong argument for it. Its fairly straight forward to play but there is a little bit of hand twisting to get it right. Every finger on the fretting hand is been used, its spread across three strings and its rather nippy. So I wouldn’t call …
I have said it before and I will say it again. Blink-182 don’t get enough credit for their songwriting. When you strip away all the humour and silliness, you are left with some phenomenal compositions, melodies and harmonies. I Miss You is the perfect example of that. Let’s learn to play it on the ukulele. …
I didn’t really click with Green Day until they released the American Idiot album. After listening to it and becoming obsessed as a 15-year-old. I did a well needed deep dive on their discography. I was blown away by the raw energy and the early signs that they would go on to become stadium sell-outs. …
I couldn’t have been happier to see this monster of a song be introduced to a whole new generation of people over on TikTok recently. I wouldn’t have even been in double digits when it was released in the 90s but that guitar intro has stayed in my head ever since. Let’s learn to play …
I have my mum to thank for my introduction to The Eagles. She’s not a massive fan or anything but she got me this CD called “The Best Air Guitar Anthems Ever” when I was a kid and learning to play the guitar. She saw it advertised on TV and one of their marketing tactics …
The Californication album features some of John Frusciante’s finest guitar work in my opinion. He has the knack for creating fun and intricate riffs that are still assessable for all types of player. He absolutely nails it on all three solos on this track. The intro lick is what really stands out though. Let’s learn …
I remember been instantly awed by these guys after seeing their live set at Glastonbury on the tv. They had this beautiful simplicity to them. Haunting vocals and amazing production by Jamie XX. The standout track of theirs for me is the Intro to their debut album. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is …
It’s been a few years now since Chris Cornell’s passing. I remember Kerrang TV only playing Black Hole Sun during the night. Of course, this was way before the internet and therefore easy access to new songs. That was my way of discovering new artists. Soundgarden was one of those bands. RIP man, I hope …
I first heard Alice Coopers music as a child when schools Out would get blasted at my house as a kid. I loved the outro so much, that falsetto harmony is just gorgeous. Today though, we are playing his biggest hit, Poison. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you …
This is another one of these songs that always seems to be on the greatest riffs of all-time lists. Lyrically the song is about somebody who has just been fired and is struggling to find replacement work. Very much the sentiment for a lot of people from Birmingham in the UK in the 80s. It …
This guys music is just so silky smooth and laid back. I saw his colours session a while back and loved the tone he got out of his 6 string. Today we are learning to play It Runs Through Me, I Wish and Beautiful Escape on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? The …
Probably much to the annoyance of a few Aerosmith fans, i like many others discovered this song through the Eminem track Sing For The Moment. A collection of lush chords that sound great on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able to play by …
It took me quite a while to get into the guitar prince that is John Mayer. I only ever really knew his songs from them back teen movies back in the 00s. After hearing his album The Search For Everything though, that all changed. The instrumentation on the opening track Still Feel Like Your Man …
The whole album that this song is from is laden with licks. In fact, it’s brimming with colourful musical language. It’s sublime and one of my favourite albums of all time. Let’s learn to play the signature riff from Paul Simons Graceland on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video …
For a debut album, Ten really is astonishing. It feels like every song has been written by a group of legendary artists. It’s a testament to the album that I bought it when it was 10 years old. Still, 15 years later, I’m still discovering new aspects that I love about it. Even Flow is …
This song is about when Mac was playing a drunken gig and somehow drumsticks ended up in his behind. Due to it being the 21st century, a video of it ended up online. One thing led to another and his mother and grandmother saw it. The song is essentially an apology to them. What Are …
Having a ukulele that has a low G string in your collection is no doubt going to expand your playing possibilities. You can have a low g uke without having to buy a new one either. It’s just a case of changing one of the strings. Having a ukulele with a low G means the …
How good was nu- metal though? I remember getting a copy of total guitar magazine as a kid and it was a edition devoted to all things nu-metal. Im talking Linking Park, Korn, Deftones and of course Papa Roach. They always had some decent riffs in their locker so lets learn to play one on …
I’m not going to lie, I am absolutely in love with John Mayer. It took me a long time to get to grips with his music but I am so glad that I did. Not only is he a brilliant songwriter, but he’s also a phenomenal guitar player. Let’s learn to play Slow Dancing In …
I, like many people reading this post, first discovered this song on Tik Tok. Some dude who I follow used it for a cooking video he made. Don’t get me wrong, the meal looked ace, but the song was something else. So much atmosphere and groove, I immediately went into a deep dive of Brent …
It’s about time I arranged some U2 on the uke. One of my favourite albums of all time is Joshua Tree. As I write this I’m wondering why on earth I haven’t done it already! Today we are learning to play Sunday Bloody Sunday, One and Where The Streets Have No Name on the ukulele. …
I was so happy to see Sufjan Stevens have some mainstream success when he penned the soundtrack to Call Me By Your Name. He has been putting out fantastic music for a long time and it’s about time that the wider world got to hear it. Let’s learn to play Mystery Of Love on the …
Anyone remember their family members been super scared when you starting enjoying Slipknot? That was so the case with mine, and the majority of the school when i would wear a Slipknot hoodie. i didn’t care though, they had this undeniable energy that’s impossible not to enjoy. One of my favourite songs is surfacing of …
This is so so so undeniably one of the top 5 riffs of all time. Not only is the instrumentation is amazing, but it has some really poignant lines too. One of my favourites being “Maybe it’s not too late, To learn how to love and forget how to hate”. What Are We Learning To …
Some lovely lickage from Boy Pablo made me want to learn this song on I the ukulele. A few years ago, this song was in my YouTube recommendations forever before i ever listening to it. Im glad they persevered for so long lol. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what …
This song was huge back in the day. There was even a time when they would play the music video on the hour every hour all day for a whole week on Kerrang! TV. The opening lick slaps so lets give it a go on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is …
Loyle is one of my favourite rappers in the UK. His meaningful lyrically content is a nice change from all the hard drill bars at the moment. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a fan of drill music. It’s just good to switch it up. His choice of beats for his songs are mouth-watering. Let’s learn …
When you have some of the greatest musicians of all time of their selected instruments in the same band. You are bound to have a few good songs that sound great on the uke. Let’s learn to play Californication, Dosed and Sick Love on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? The tabs are …
Learn to Play 3 Red Hot Chili Peppers Songs on the Ukulele! Read More »
I would without a doubt put this song in the list of most iconic UK songs ever written. Lyrically it’s bleak, but the instrumentation is so uplifting. Let’s learn to play some of it on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? The tabs for this song are taken from this video I created …
A song about heartbreak over a killer instrumental. Lil Uzi captured a lot of peoples ears in 2017 when he released this song. It’s easy to see why as the hook is an absolute earworm. Let’s learn to play XO TOUR Llif3 on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? The tabs are from …
It’s safe to say Jimmy Eat World were one of my first “Favourite” bands. I mean, I grew up listening to and loved Iron Maiden, Queen and ABBA. But, you know those bands? Those ones that you first start discovering when you’re a teenager and nobody but you seems to like them? Not in a …
What can I say about the Beatles that hasn’t been said before? Geniuses, Pioneers and revolutionary are all words that spring to mind when talking about them. One of their members (George) was a huge fan of the uke too. Let’s learn to play Come Together, And Your Bird Can Sing Blackbird and Blackbird on …
I was immediately into these guys as soon as I heard them and I have being a fan ever since. They have consistently put out fantastic albums. Their debut album had some great instrumentation on it. Let’s learn to play Always Like This on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a …
For me, these guys are one of the more underlooked and underrated bands from the Britpop era. I have seen them live a few times and the energy from the crowd is unmatched. Their debut album Moseley Shoals was sublime. Let’s learn to play The Riverboat Song on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To …
Most of the prominent parts of The Specials songs are played by their phenomenal brass section. That doesn’t mean to say we can’t play some of them on the uke though. Let’s learn the signature motif from Message To You Rudy on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of …
This song is a perfect example of how exceptionally talented Donald Glover is. The instrumentation on it is just divine. Let’s learn to play Redbone on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? The tabs are from a little arrangement I made for my Tik Tok account recently. Check it out below and keep …
Rock and Roll Ain’t Noise Pollution … and neither is the timeless masterpiece that is the Back In Black album! AC/DC are well and truly in musical roots, some of my earliest memories are watching old VHS tapes of the likes of Iron Maiden, Guns N Roses and Meat Loaf with my old man. AC/DC …
Muse are no strangers to intricate pieces of music and ear-worming riffs. I grew up loving their music and I have been lucky enough to catch them live a few times too. Whether on stage or in the studio, they are an incredible talent. Let’s learn to play Starlight, Plug In Baby and Unintended on …
I, like many other people my age from England, first heard this song thanks to the one and only DJ Sammy. A catchy euro-pop number that has the same undeniable mega chorus from the original Don Henley version. I later heard the original while playing GTA: Vice City. Let’s learn to play it on a …
I, and you are more than likely the same, first heard this song on TikTok. It quickly became the soundtrack to anything nostalgic on the app. The song is great and it has a lovely intro lick. Let’s learn to play Coming Of Age on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is …
Not only is this song one of the most recognisable songs of the 80s. It’s also a staple of my childhood due to it been a part of the Grand Theft Auto: Vice City soundtrack. Honestly, I discovered so much amazing music from those games. Let’s learn to play it on a ukulele. What Are …
What can I say about this song that hasn’t been said before? It’s Green Days ballad about Billie-Joes break up with a girl that moved to Ecuador. A song about broken hearts and missed opportunities. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able to play by the …
I was hooked on this show as a kid. I’m talking PS1 games, VHS tapes and duvet sets. I even had this Rugrat themed design program on my Windows 95 computer that I designed business cards for all my family on lol. Let’s learn to play the extremely catchy main theme on the ukulele. What …
Even on their early albums that were quick and heavily distorted. It’s easy to pick out some fantastic guitar work by Kurt Cobain. He had a knack for writing great songs that had equally fantastic riffs. Let’s learn to play Come As You Are, All Apologies and Lithium on the ukulele. What Are We Learning …
This is a regular song on those “riffs you must learn before you die” type lists. For good reason, it sounds sublime and its great little test of finger strength. Let’s learn to play it on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able to …
Some of their songs were regular staples on the CD player in my house as a child. I went on to become a huge fan of Ska and Punk when I was a teen so its easier to see the early influence madness had on me. The main melodies for a lot of their songs …
I really do miss those funky in your face hip hop beats from the late 90s and early 00s. Eminem and Dr Dre pretty much laid the blueprint for it. However, it was Eminem alone that produced this one. Let’s learn to play My Band by D12 on the ukulele What Are We Learning To …
This song was on a complication CD that my mam got me when I was younger. “The Best Air Guitar Anthems Of All Time”. I will never forget when she came home complaining that she didn’t get a free air guitar like advertised from HMV 🤣 What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a …
This is one of those riffs that as soon as you hear it, you want to be able to play it. That was the case with me when I was playing a 6 string years ago anyways. The recording has a lovely tone and it sounds great on a uke. Let’s learn to play I …
For me, SZA is one of those artists who’s name I have seen on so many songs. Yet I had never actually listened to her solo music. That all changed when I heard the beautiful instrumental for Good Days on Tik Tok recently. It’s a gorgeous chord pattern that’s elevated with some delay. Let’s learn …
Noel Gallagher is hailed as one of the greatest songwriters of his generation. He knew his way around a riff or two as well. Let’s learn to play one of bests riffs of the 90s on a ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able to …
Not only was he phenomenally talented wordsmith. Notorious B.I.G had an exceptional skill at picking beats to spit on. One of my favourites is One More Chance. Let’s learn to play some of the licks on a ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? I have taken the tabs from a video I posted on …
With its undeniable groove, it’s hard not to bop your head or at least tap your foot along to Fools Gold by the Stone Roses. They burst onto the Madchester scene in the late 80s with their phenomenal debut album. Just before the start of the 90s, Fools Gold hit the airwaves. Let’s learn to …
Liverpool legends The La’s wrote one of the greatest songs of the 90s. Lyrically its beautiful, but the the opening riff is something else. Super iconic and recognisable. Let’s learn to play it on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able to play by …
This is one of those songs that all my mates used to play on guitar but i never had a clue what it was. It wasn’t until i was playing Tony Hawks Pro Skater 3 and that killer riff came back into my life. Let’s learn to play it on the ukulele. What Are We …
This was already a HUGE hit when it was released in 1976. However it had another burst in popularity in 2000 when Christopher Walken hilariously demanded that Will Ferrel add more cowbell when the band was in the studio. It sounds great so let’s learn to play it on the ukulele. What Are We Learning …
These guys were the perfect band for me as a teenager. I had been playing the guitars for a few years and beginning to get alright on it. So when I first heard Coheed And Cambria, their music melted into my ears like hot delicious butter. The instrumentation so harmonious and the drums so thunderous. …
Jack Johnson has so many songs that sound great on the ukulele. Maybe it’s due to him growing up surrounded by them. He’s also a pretty nifty player himself. One of my favourite songs of his is Banana Pancakes. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able …
Jack White is abit of a hero of mine if I’m honest. I thought The White Stripes had some of the best garage rock songs of the 00s era. So when it was announced he was forming a “super band”, i was all ears. Broken Boy Soldiers was such a good album too. Let’s learn …
I’ll be honest, for about 25 years of my life, the only Deep Purple song I knew was the one that almost every guitar player in the world has heard. It wasn’t until a few years ago that I did a deep dive into their discography and discovered this gem. It’s such an epic musical …
I managed to see these guys live at Leeds Festival a few years and they are seriously one of the best bands i have seen live. So much energy and nostalgia in those mosh pits. Can you imagine when this song breaks down and Fred starts singing “ i know why wanna hate me”. So …
My introduction to Fleetwood Mac came from an unlikely source. Remember in Forrest Gump just after his mum passes away and he’s sat on the porch contemplating life. He gets up and for no particular reason he decides to go for a little run, he runs out of Mississippi and across Alabama until he gets …
Under neon loneliness, motorcycle emptiness. One of my favourite cryptic lines from the Manic Street Preachers. A song about the glittering life that everybody wants to project, and the gaping awareness of our own insignificance. In a world teetering on the brink of self-extinction ridden with a sense of fruitlessness. Not in a depressing way or …
Mega group Audioslave caused a huge buzz when they first formed in the early 00s. A Hybrid of Rage Against The Machine and Soundgargen, they had a massive sound. One of my favourite songs of theirs though is a little bit more stripped back. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of …
The Cure are one of those bands that you don’t realise how many songs of theirs you know until you whack a playlist of theirs on Spotify. I loved Friday Im In Love as a kid, my mam had the CD single and i would blast at my nana house. Today though, we are learning …
Ukulele hero George Kusunoki Miller more commonly known as Joji has been making waves in the music industry for some years now. Even when he was making music as Pink Guy and Filthy Frank, his aliases on YouTube. You could tell then that he was a musician at heart and not just another YouTuber trying …
Does anyone remember Myspace?? I first discovered Fleet Foxes on there. Back when I was living in New Zealand we didn’t have the internet at home so I would hit the internet cafe on the weekend. I would trail through Myspace and find as much new music as I could, download it all and rinse …
Often regarded as one of the greatest riffs of all time and for good reason, it sounds amazing. Not only as its original interpretation on the Toys In The Attic album, but equally when when Run D.M.C covered it in the 80s. It sparked a major comeback for Aerosmith as most of the band had …
A tortured soul who ultimately led a turbulent, complicated and questionable life. When it comes to music and songwriting ability, theres none quite like Michael Jackson. He released one of the greatest albums of all time with almost all the songs on it been released as number one singles. One of my favourites has an …
This is one of The Kinks most signature songs and it’s easy to see why. It’s an absolute foot stomper from start to finish. Can you imagine the scenes when they would perform this at their shows in the 60s? What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be …
Arcade fire is an incredible band, There is no other way about it. This is a band that shows their talent in abundance, and it’s evident from the very beginning. I first stumbled across them while watching a Reading + Leeds 2007 highlights show on the BBC red button. I was in awe, the sun …
Undoubtedly, this is in my top five Nirvana songs. I love their aggressive early stuff, but when they strip it back, they nail it every-time. Kurt’s coarse and strained voice over that bass line is just perfect to me. Let’s learn to play it on a ukulele. I seem to be saying this often lately, …
This song was written as an ode to a women Eric Clapton was in love with, Pattie Boyd. Unfortunately for him, she was married to George Harrison. Clapton secretly met with Boyd one afternoon in her flat and played the song for her off of his tape machine. Pattie said that it was “the most …
These guys exploded into the music scene when they wrote the greatest and best song in the world, Tribute. Their debut album was packed with not only hilarious songs, but some exquisite instrumentation too. Wonderboy being a fine example. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able …
This song was my first introduction to Jimi Hendrix and it still remains my favourite song of his. He had a phenomenal technical ability and it becomes so clear when you try to play his songs on a ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able …
What I love about Gerry Cinnamon is his ability to mask his very sombre songs with these upbeat and lively instrumentals. It’s a heady mix that makes for some fantastic music. I was torn with what song to play on the ukulele but the intro to Lullaby was begging to be played. What Are We …
Ranked in the Top 50 of Rolling Stones 500 Greatest Songs Of All Time, this song is fantastic. Originally released by Bob Dylan and covered one year later by The Jimi Hendrix Experience. Of Jimi’s version, Dylan said“I liked Jimi Hendrix’s record of this and ever since he died I’ve been doing it that way. …
Mark Knopfler is considered one of the greatest of all time on the six-string and this song is a prime example of why. I love songs like this, jangly guitar work littered throughout the song. Let’s learn to play the intro to Sultans Of Swing on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below …
A collection of songs which gave an insight into the workings of Ian Curtis’s mind. There’s not much to say about Joy Division that hasn’t been said already, I mean, Unknown Pleasures is one of those albums that everyone has heard of, everyone knows the band and everyone knows that cover! It says a million …
Potentially the most famous song in a different time signature? You can’t play along to standard drum beat when playing this as its in 7/8 time. It’s worth knowing that as you begin to learn it. We are playing the bass line and the vocal melody for the chorus. What Are We Learning To Play? …
Is there a more iconic Metallica riff than this one? Probably because all of them are Biblical. This one however sounds great on the uke. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able to play by the end of this post. Ukulele Tabs It’s fairly straight forward …
It’s rare that a band like Smashing Pumpkins come along. They seem to defy the idea of genre as it’s almost impossible to pinpoint exactly what their sound is. Billy Corgan is an exceptional musician and he knows how to write a riff or two. Let’s learn to play Zero on the ukulele. What Are …
I first became aware of this song in the late 90s when P Diddy released his tribute to Notorious B.I.G and sampled it. It was only in my teens when i realised it was a sample and The Police were the writers of this beautiful piece of music. Let’s learn to play it on the …
I have had so many nights where i fall asleep with this song and the music video on repeat. Then i go on the spend the entirety of the next morning with the delicious melody in my head. Lets learn to play it on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a …
This is truly one of my favourite songs of all time. It’s got that really lovely jangly guitar song that I just can’t get enough of. I have recently arranged the Foo Fighters Wasted Light album. I’m now thinking i ought to re-visit some of their older songs and give them a go on the …
For a very brief period in school, i was the bass player in a Rage Against The Machine tribute band. I was never even a bass player but as always, guitarists outnumbered every other instrument. It was years later that i would find myself dropping 2 strings again. Easily Rage Against The Machines most famous …
Rage Against The Machine – Killing In The Name Of Read More »
It’s a bold claim to call an album perfect, but fuck it, the stone roses debut album is perfect. Every second of it is magical. Mani’s deep bass lines, John Squires fluid guitar licks and Reni’s outstanding drumming create a dense overwhelming psychedelic unforgettable musical experience. Let’s learn to play I Wanna Be Adored on …
I got the album that Old Pine is on after a friend introduced me to Ben Howard in 2012. It couldn’t have come a moment too soon. I found myself simply sitting in a room listening–doing nothing else, but enjoying the music floating over me. To be frank, I was astonished. I haven’t had an …
This is one of those iconic riffs, them ones where you wish you would be able to play but you are too frightened to try it. That was me up until a few weeks ago. I have played some of The Smiths songs on a ukulele before and they are very tricky. Which is a …
For so long i thought this song was called Brainstorm lol. I uploaded a ukulele arrangement for Favourite Worst Nightmare and about half the comments was Arctic Monkeys fans berating me for spelling it wrong. Regardless, it’s a mega song and sounds fantastic on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a …
A regular staple on the greatest guitar riffs of all time lists and a song that most people have heard at some point in their life. Lets learn to play it on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able to play by the end …
This song first came to my attention when it was spammed like crazy on Kerrang TV back in the day. Let’s learn to play it on the ukulele … What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able to play by the end of this post. Ukulele Tabs This …
I have always been a huge fan of status quo, i love any kind of jangly guitar playing like that on Down Down and Whatever You Want, which had a revival in the UK thanks to a Wilkos advert 🤣. The song that always stuck with me though was Caroline. A guaranteed foot stomper! What …
This is just some straight up punk-pop and who docent love that on a ukulele? Another song that penetrated the music video channels when i was a teenager. I’m pretty sure me and few school mates performed this at a school assembly once too! What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of …
Potentially the most famous song in a different time signature? You can’t play along to standard drum beat when playing this as its in 7/8 time. It’s worth knowing that as you begin to learn it. We are playing the bass line and the vocal melody for the chorus. What Are We Learning To Play? …
I first heard this song while watching these VHS tapes of a Guns N Roses live in Tokyo concert. Slash absolutely nailed it live, he’s probably one of my biggest inspirations when learning musical instruments. While the original by Wings is a little bit more subdued, it still has an undeniable energy. Let’s learn to …
A regular staple on the greatest songs of all time lists and a song that most people have heard at some point in their life. I first became aware of it from the Waynes World films and the numerous signs in guitar shops protesting that people shouldn’t play it. Screw that, lets learn it on …
Tame Impala are one of those bands that i could get lost on a desert album with their discography and be completely happy about that. Layers upon layers of ethereal sounds that create this megalodon of sound. Let’s learn to play their massive hit The Less I Know The Better on the ukulele. What Are …
OK Computer is a work of art comprised of progressive music, brimming with atmosphere and depth. It comes as “No Surprise” to me that it is regularly voted as one of the greatest albums ever made. One of the standout tracks is Paranoid Android. A lovely lick that sounds great on the ukulele. What Are …
Can you believe The Hives were form in 1989? The band are as old as me which is mad to think. Their “big break” came 10 years later though when they released their debut album and breakout single Hate To Say I Told You So. They infiltrated the UK music scene and have gone on …
One of those songs that has always been in my head but didn’t have a clue who actually recorded it until recently. It has become a pretty iconic electric guitar lick that amateur guitar players have been learning for 20 years now. Lets learn to play it on a ukulele … What Are We Learning …
A song that is guaranteed to make you head-bang, its got such a serious energy for start to finish. So let’s learn to play the key riffs of the song on a ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able to play by the end of …
I fell in love with Smashing Pumpkins after seeing the video for 1979 on Kerrang! way back when. it wasn’t long before i had gotten a copy of Siamese Dream and was immediately awed by the fantastic guitar work on it. The pinnacle of it being Cherub Rock. What Are We Learning To Play? Below …
This is another highly requested album and I’m very happy that I finally got round to it. I don’t think blink get enough credit for their songwriting abilities. I often find when I strip down the songs and arrange them for the ukulele, what’s left is some fantastic guitar and bass work. Not to mention …
I’m actually shocked I haven’t recorded a Foo Fighters album sooner than this. I am closing in on arranging 200 albums on the ukulele and although Dave Ghrol made an appearance for the Nirvana videos. His “other” project is finally making its debut. Today we are learning to play Dear Rosemary, Arlandia and Walk. …
One of the few “YouTubers” that have made the transition to music pretty seamlessly. I was a huge fan of his debut EP, maybe due to its heavy use of the ukulele. I have enjoyed everything he has put out since too. Today we are learning to play Modus, Tick Tock, Run and Sanctuary. These …
The absolute titans of metal music. I have been a fan of this band since I was a teenager. When you are an amateur guitar player like I was, it’s almost impossible not to like this band. The musicianship is incredible. Today we are learning to play Fight Fire With Fire, For Whom The Bell …
Punk-rock titans from the late 90s and early 00s. The Offsprings Americana spawned multiple hits all over the world. They introduced many people into the world of punk and I was one of them. Let’s learn to play some of them songs on the ukulele. Today we are leaning to play Staring At The …
The pull-off is what i would call the sibling of the hammer-on. Mastering how to perform one will take your playing to the next level. It allows us the blend notes smoothly. Performing a pull-off involves placing two fingers (often the first and ring finger) on the fretboard. Then plucking the string and dragging your …
How to Play a Ukulele Pull-Off: Improve Your Skills Read More »
The second album from The Libertines carries on from their sublime debut. They are a band that captured the whirling feeling of falling apart and absolutely loving it at the same time. Let’s learn to play some of them songs on a ukulele. Today we are learning to play Can’t Stand Me Now, Music …
Franz Ferdinand are one of the most charming indie bands to emerge from the mid-2000s. Their debut is untouchable in terms of quality. Top-notch instrumentation, the riffs are super and every single song is irresistibly catchy. Let’s learn to play some of them on the ukulele. Today we are learning to play Take Me …
The infamous E chord. There’s no doubt about it, it’s extremely awkward to play on a ukulele. The shape feels unnatural and it hurts your fingers. I have been playing the ukulele for over 7 years and I still struggle with it. I’m going to show you a much easier way to play it. You …
The Dreaded Ukulele E Chord and the Easy Way to Play It Read More »
The Gorillaz genre-splitting music all started with this album. Damon Albarn’s craft of writing music seems effortless. Let’s learn to play some songs on this album. Today we are learning to play 5/4, Clint Eastwood and Rock The House. The video below will give you an idea of what the ukulele tabs will sound …
Learning to play the ukulele is a challenge in itself. When you start the process you might find the challenge even more difficult when your body starts to work against you. Ukulele soreness is a real thing and almost everybody suffers with it at some point. Having pains from playing the ukulele is normal. Especially …
Overcoming Sore Fingers From Playing the Ukulele Read More »
Billie Eilish is a huge fan of the ukulele can be often seen playing one. It comes as no surprise that her music sounds fantastic on our four-stringed friend. Let’s learn to play her new song My Future on the uke. These ukulele tabs are taken from my video arrangement. It’s worth listening to it …
Indie rockers Foster The People burst into the mainstream with their single Pumped Up Kicks in 2010. It’s gone on to amass over a billion views/streams online. Needless to say, this band writes good music. Let’s learn to play some songs of Torches on the ukulele. Today we are learning to play Helena Beat, Pumped …
The debut album from The Kooks is a nostalgia trip and it takes me back to a simpler time in my life. It catapulted them into mainstream success and spawned 7 singles. Let’s learn to play some of them on the ukulele. Today we are learning to play She Moves In Her Own Way, …
Learning how to perform a ukulele barre chord can be one of the most challenging aspects of playing the uke. It requires a lot of finger strength and ultimately a tonne of practice. In this post, we will discuss 3 tips that will make the learning process easier for you. A ukulele barre chord is …
A musical masterclass from Alex Turner and Miles Kane. The Last Shadow Puppets second album is one for everyone’s collection. Let’s learn to play some of it on a ukulele. Today we are learning to play Aviation, Bad Habit and Patterns. All the ukulele tabs are taken from my video arrangement of Everything You’ve …
The Last Shadow Puppets – Everything You’ve Come To Expect Read More »
Palm muting the ukulele changes the way the ukulele sounds. Knowing how to do it gives you the opportunity to diversify your playing style. Ultimately making you a better player. To palm mute, hold the pinky side of your strumming hand against the strings near the bridge. This is going to dampen the sound of …
The ukulele hammer-on is a technique that adds a lot more dynamics into your playing. It can blend notes together easy and seamlessly when done correctly. Performing a ukulele hammer-on involves plucking one note, then playing the next note without plucking again. It increases your speed when playing songs. That’s because it allows you to …
How to Play a Ukulele Hammer-On – Improve Your Skills Read More »
Have you recently jumped into the world of ukulele playing? You are eager to get started but the uke you are using sounds like it’s offending everyone around you? You are not alone. Having a ukulele that sounds bad can be seriously detrimental to your progress on the instrument. It’s common for people to give …
Delicate licks and interesting rhythms. The strokes have a rich discography and their 5th album Angles is very much of the same. Fantastic music that sounds great on the ukulele. Today we are learning to play Machu Pichu, You’re So Right and Life Is Simple In The Moonlight. The video below will give you …
The Beatles have written some classic riffs over the course of their careers. Come Together is one of them and it sounds great on the ukulele. Let’s learn to play it. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able to play by the end of this post. …
One More Time is from the stellar Discovery album by Daft Punk. They are titans of the dance music industry and it turns out their songs also great on a ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able to play by the end of this post. …
Sunday Best has taken the internet by storm. It currently has 1.2 million videos created using its sound on Tik Tok. Let’s learn to play this awesome song on the ukulele. I originally heard Surfaces when one half of them got recommended to me on YouTube. Grandpops Uke by Forrest naturally stood out to me …
This is gone on to become one of the most iconic riffs of all time. Although it is usually played on our six-stringed cousin. It sounds great on the ukulele too. It can appear like its hard to play but with some preparation before we start. It’s actually very easy. What Are We Learning To …
I first saw these guys perform on the Glastonbury highlights a few years ago. I was awed by the lead singer, Samuel T. Herring, and his stage presence. He has boundless energy and its just so captivating to watch him in action. Today we are learning to play Seasons (Waiting On You) on the ukulele. …
He’s a native of Hawaii so naturally, Jack Johnson and the ukulele was bound to be a good combination. Today we are learning to play Belle from his In Between Dreams album. This song is aimed at beginner players who are looking to advance their playing on the ukulele. We are using fingerpicking and sometimes plucking …
Today we are learning to play the synth line from The Weekends monster hit Blinding Lights. This song is drenched in 80s nostalgia and it translates really nicely onto the ukulele. Lets crack on learn to play it. Below is a example of how it should sound. Not sure how to read these tabs? Take …
This is a riff thats going to increase your speed and dexterity. Lets learn to play Blue Orchid by The White Stripes on the ukulele. What Are We Learning To Play? Below is a video of what you will be able to play by the end of this post. Not sure how to read these …
The godfather of soul himself. A man of many genres but when it comes to funk, he was on another level. Let’s learn to play Sex Machine on the ukulele. What makes this an interesting song to play is its intricate strumming pattern. Its one of them that takes a while to get the hang of. …
Finally, a band that makes the term “boy band” sound like the coolest thing ever. To be fair, I was massively into bands like Westlife, Backstreet Boys, Nsync ect when I was a kid so I can’t really say anything lol. I first got into Brockhampton when I saw the video for Gold a few years back. I was immediately inspired …
It seems to be a rare occasion on this website where I teach songs that actually feature a uke. Today is one of those days. Let’s learn to play Worldstar Money by Joji on the ukulele. With its excellent use open chords, Worldstar Money is a great song for beginners. The strumming pattern isn’t too …
This song translates very well to the uke. It a great exercise as we are using many techniques to play it effectively. Let’s crack on a learn to play these Gorillaz ukulele tabs. Interestingly, this was actually one of the first songs I learnt to play on the uke. Me and my band Bud Sugar …
The theme of today’s post is “A song that you listen to while driving”. With that in mind, let’s learn how to play some Creedence Clearwater Revival on the ukulele. I have no idea why. I can only assume that I saw some film as a kid that’s ingrained into me. But whenever I hear that …
This song first came to my attention when I heard the amazing Walk Off The Earth version. The chorus is just so catchy and its got a great little riff. Let’s learn to play it on the ukulele … This arrangement is inspired by Al’s version over at UkeHunt. You can find a longer version …
Heavy metal titans Iron Maiden had a huge influence on the metal scene in the 80s. Their guitar skills certainly captured me as a young budding guitarist. Let’s learn how to play Hallowed Be Thy Name on a ukulele.. This arrangement is made much easier to play by the fact thats all based around a …
It has gone on to become a classic summer anthem, let’s learn to play the Avicii ukulele tabs for Wake Me Up. Something I find really cool about this song; It was co-written by one of my favourite guitarists of all time. Mike Einziger from Incubus was a frequent collaborator with the Swedish house music producer. …
Do you want to give county and folk hero Johnny Cash the ukulele treatment? Today we are learning to play the foot-stomper I Walk The Line. My first introduction to Johnny Cash was his cover of Hurt by Nice Inch Nails. It was the early 00s and around the time I seriously started to consume …
Let’s put the simple chords and easy strumming patterns in the bin for a few moments. Get your neck ready for some moshing! In this article we are learning to play 15 easy riffs for ukulele beginners. If you are new to the ukulele, chances are that you know a few chords already. Maybe you even …
His soulful and jazzy takes just melt into my ears like hot butter does to bread. It comes as no surprise that he is a Brit School alumni after getting familiar with his genre-spanning discography. Let’s take a look at how to play Sunflower on the ukulele. This arrangement is largely based on the video that …
How to Play Sunflower – Rex Orange County on the Ukulele Read More »
When we talk of titans in the Nu-Metal genre, Papa Roach will often get mentioned. Alongside the likes of Linkin Park, Korn and Slipknot. They carried the torch for so many angsty teenagers in the early 00s. I was one of them so it was only a matter of time before Papa Roach ukulele style …
The Darkness were a complete breath a fresh air back in the early 00s. Glam rock was back and ready to shake you up! Needless to say The Darkness ukulele style is a must. Lets learn to play I Believe In A Thing Called Love on the uke. Today we are learning to play the …
I first got into Tame Impala after hearing Currents. What I didn’t realize until listening to it is how many songs by them I actually knew. They seem to be one of these bands that are kinda unheard of but also absolutely huge at the same time. They headlined the Other Stage at Glasto! I …
Its a well known fact that George Harrison is one of the ukuleles biggest fans. He famously said “You can pick up a ukulele and anybody can learn to play a couple of tunes in a day or even a few hours. And if you want to get good at it, there’s no end to …
How to Play Here Comes The Sun by The Beatles on the Ukulele Read More »
It’s a new week and the 30 day song challenge continues. The sentence that describes this song is “A Song that reminds you of the beach”. Quite unimaginatively, i went for the Beach Boys. This song can defiantly be a finger twister, however, once you get the hang of it. It sounds really great on …
This is one of them songs that has gone on to become legendary. When it got released in 2010 it was blasted in all the indie clubs in my hometown. It’s still getting played to this day. Let’s take a look at how to play Pumped Up Kicks on the ukulele. This song is super straightforward …
How to Play Pumped Up Kicks – Foster The People on a Ukulele Read More »
Want to know something really interesting about this song? It’s my band. That’s right, when I’m not playing the ukulele on YouTube you can find me rocking out stage with Bud Sugar. Today we are taking a look at how to play our song Viral on the ukulele. The ukulele has been penetrating its way into …
I and many others first heard this song when it had its EPIC premiere on Fortnite. The song slams and its only right that we give it a shot on the ukulele. For this arrangement we are recreating the opening synth lines. The video below gives you an idea of what we are going to …
How to Play THE SCOTTS by Travis Scott on a Ukulele Read More »
Its fair to say that Billie Eilish has dominated popular music for the past few years. She and her brother Finneas have created outstanding songs and dont show no signs of stopping. Lets take a look at how to play her song Lovely with Khalid.Below is a video of what we are going to learn. …
How to Play Lovely – Billie Eilish & Khalid on the Ukulele Read More »
Today is “A song you knew would be a hit”. At the risk of sounding like a complete hipster, I knew of this song when George had about 500-page likes on Facebook. I used to listen to a lot of BBC introducing shows and Budapest was the track of the week for the west. Anyhow, …
How to Play George Ezra – Budapest on the Ukulele Read More »
In this section, we will cover everything you need to know about starting to play the ukulele.
