Best 12-Strings Guitar Songs Of All Time
The 12-string guitar is widely known for its rich notes and the jangly sound produced by its double set of strings tuned in octaves compared to the 6-string guitars. Whether you love playing rock, folk, or country music, the 12 string guitar has been a staple for many iconic songs and artists.
So gather your seatbelts and get ready to strum along as we walk through memory lane and go through some popular tunes that came alive with the magic of the 12-string guitar.
Wanted Dead Or Alive By Bon Jovi
Cc IMDb
Song Youtube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRvCvsRp5ho
Dead or Alive was released by the American rock band Bon Jovi during the 1980s as part of their album “Slippery. When the musicians in the group wrote Wet,” This powerhouse of a song quickly became the brand’s most popular and enduring song.
The song features a driving rock sound with catchy guitar riffs, capturing the essence of the 80s musical era! The lyrics show a picture of a restless soul yearning for freedom with lines like.”it’s all the same, only the names change. It showcases the monotonous life of human beings.
The iconic chorus, “I’m wanted dead or alive,” reflects the true rock and roll music persona of the brand and how the thrill of living on the edge. Dead or Alive quickly became popular and helped reach Bon Jovi to new heights of stardom. This song’s epic lyrics and melody are still stuck hearts of millions. Thus, it’s a timeless classic that still captivates audiences today!
Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd
cc Discogs
Youtube link https://youtu.be/hjpF8ukSrvk
Wish You Were Here” is a song that was released by Pink Floyd in 1975 as the title track of their ninth studio album, also titled “Wish You Were Here.” It was written by Roger Waters and David Gilmour, key band members known for their unique songwriting style and musical prowess.
The song is a heartfelt reflection on the absence of someone dear and touches on themes of longing, loss, and the emotional distance between people. The lyrics are reflective and introspective, with poignant lines that resonate with many listeners. The song’s sad tone is enhanced by Gilmour’s soulful vocals and dynamic guitar work, which is one of the track’s highlights.
The song’s instrumentation is also noteworthy, with its acoustic guitar intro, haunting synthesizer melodies, and intricate guitar solos. The album version of “Wish You Were Here” also features a famous soundbite of a radio tuning in and out, adding to the song’s unique atmosphere and serving as a commentary on the music industry at the time.
“Wish You Were Here” has become one of his most iconic songs and has been widely regarded as a classic in rock music. Its emotional depth, introspective lyrics, and memorable melodies have resonated with countless listeners over the years, making it a timeless piece of music that continues to be cherished by fans and music enthusiasts alike.
John Butler Trio – Ocean
Cc Printest
Youtube Link https://youtu.be/jdYJf_ybyVo
Ocean by John Butler is sung by an Australian singer John Butler Trio who made waves for his soulful acoustic guitar playing techniques. The song was initially released as an instrumental piece in 1998 but later released with the lyrics in 2003.
When it comes to the composition and instrumental measures, the song is a complex and intricate 12-string acoustic guitar composition which marks its features such as the percussive techniques and open tuning. Millions love this song, and a 12-string guitar owner would be honored to play it.
The song has always been praised for being authentic and powerful and has acclaimed fame worldwide.
A Horse with No Name by America
Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/x194HbAI-og
The American rock band America’s 1971 debut single, “A Horse with No Name,” and subsequent self-titled debut album feature the song. Band member Dewey Bunnell wrote the music, and it went on to become one of America’s most well-known and lasting songs.
For decades, audiences have been enthralled by the song’s reflective lyrics and mellow folk-rock sound. The lyrics to “A Horse with No Name” conjure up vivid images of a lonely landscape and a lone traveler attempting to make sense of their circumstances as they narrate the tale of a trek through the desert. The song’s mysterious lyrics have drawn a variety of interpretations, with listeners deciphering the song’s poetry lines’ hidden meanings.
The opening and recurrent acoustic guitar riff of “A Horse with No Name” is one of the song’s distinguishing characteristics. The strumming pattern and Bunnell’s mellow vocals produce a calming atmosphere and conjure the idea of a long introspective voyage. Bandmates Gerry Beckley and Dan Peek also contribute harmonies to the song, giving the vocal arrangement more depth.
Only the chords Em, D6/9, Em9, and Dmaj9 can be used to play this classic.
Free Fallin’ by Tom Petty
cc Pinterest
Youtube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lWJXDG2i0A
Free Fallin’ is a classic rock sound that was released during the 1980s. The song comprises a laid-back 12-string acoustic guitar with Petty’s distinctive and iconic vocals. It has a folk-rock vibe and is renowned for its upbeat tune and straightforward but moving lyrics. The song’s calm rhythm and moderate tempo add to its laid-back atmosphere.
Free Fallin'” was one of Tom Petty’s most well-known songs and was praised by critics. On the Billboard Hot 100 chart, it reached No. 7 and is still regarded as a cherished rock music classic. The song’s place as a timeless classic in popular music has been cemented by the fact that it has been covered by countless artists and used in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials.
This song also features a 6-string and a 12-string guitar. However, you can choose the guitar part because they all blend well. You’llYou’llYou’ll need a capo on the third fret of the guitar to get the song in tune, but you can play the entire song using only the simple chords D, G, and A.
More Than a Feeling by Boston
cc Discogs
YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4QK8RxCAwo
“More Than a Feeling” is a song by the US-based rock band Boston. It served as the album’s lead single when it was first released in 1976 under its name, “Boston.”
The song is well-known for its recognizable guitar riff, soaring lead vocals by Brad Delp, and catchy chorus. The song’s layered harmonies and extensive orchestration combine rock, pop, and progressive rock elements. It is regarded as one of Boston’s most well-known songs and a classic rock anthem.
Commercially successful “More Than a Feeling” peaked at No. 5 on the 1976 Billboard Hot 100 chart. Since then, it has appeared in various movies, TV series, and commercials. It is still regarded as a beloved rock classic because of its ageless appeal and catchy hooks.
The Beatles – Ticket To Ride
cc IMDb
Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/ICwIt47toMc
Step aboard the musical journey of a lifetime with The Beatles’ iconic hit, “Ticket to Ride”! Picture yourself in the swinging 60s as the Fab Four take the world by storm with their innovative sound and mesmerizing charisma.
As soon as the song starts, you’re immediately captivated by the unforgettable guitar riff that kicks off the track. It’s a riff etched into music history, instantly recognizable and energetic, setting the tone for what’s to come.
“Ticket to Ride” was a commercial success upon its release, topping charts worldwide and solidifying The Beatles’ status as one of the greatest bands in history. Its innovative structure, catchy melodies, and groundbreaking production set a new standard for popular music, influencing countless artists that followed.
Even decades after its release, “Ticket to Ride” continues to captivate new generations of listeners. “Ticket to Ride” features a combination of 12-string guitar tones from the Rickenbacker 360/12, clean and slightly overdriven tones, which are warm and melodic bass tones from the bass guitar.
Fun. – Carry On
cc Filmaffinity
Youtube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7yCLn-O-Y0
The opening track of American indie pop group Fun’s 2012 second studio album, “Some Nights,” was the song “Carry On.” The band members Nate Ruess, Andrew Dost, Jack Antonoff, and Jeff Bhasker wrote the music, and Bhasker also oversaw its production.
The production of “Carry On,” which combines elements of indie pop, rock, and symphonic orchestration, is renowned for its richness and energy. The song skillfully combines many musical styles, giving it a distinctive tone that makes it stand out.
It is a strong and compelling song that empowers listeners with a message of resiliency and hope. It has grabbed audiences with its heartfelt lyrics, powerful vocals, and explosive orchestration, and it never fails to motivate listeners to keep moving forward despite any challenges they may encounter.
Hurricane by Bob Dylan
Youtube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bpZvg_FjL3Q
Bob wrote this song to support the well-known boxer Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, who was jailed for what many people believed to be racial reasons. The song has a very complex message. It was one of his most popular hits and performed well on the Billboard Hot 100, connecting with both his audience and Rubin Carter fans.
Bob played a great 12-string Danelectro guitar with a lipstick-style pickup in the neck that resembles a telecaster and has a mandolin-like appearance. To properly utilize all those strings and create that enormous wall of sound, this song has a lot of wide-open chord strumming. The third fret of your guitar will require a capo.
A Hard Day’s Night by The Beatles
cc The Beatles
Youtube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yjyj8qnqkYI
The renowned Rickenbacker 12-string electric guitar played by the Beatles is prominently featured in yet another timeless song. The hollow body design and soap bar pickups gave it a distinctive twang, making it a staple of numerous iconic Beatles songs. When drummer Ringo Star accidentally mentioned they had a difficult day when it was night, he swiftly corrected himself by adding the word “night” to the end of the statement. It became a band joke and gave rise to the song’s title.
The 12-string guitar parts in this song typically stay in the minor blues/pentatonic range and are executed very similarly to a 6-string electric guitar. The instrument’s tone makes the biggest difference. It has a delightfully twangy, “steel-like” tone, nearly resembling a sitar, which the Beatles were well known to be major lovers of.
Breaking the Girl by Red Hot Chili Peppers
![Red Hot Chili Peppers - Breaking The Girl [Official Music Video] - YouTube](https://zagerguitar.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/image-90.jpeg)
cc Youtube
Youtube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iyu04pqC8lE
Breaking the Girl b Red Hot Chili Peppers is a classical song of the 90’s era. Blood Sugar Sex Magik, RHCP’s 1991 album, features the music “Breaking the Girl.” It is a melodic song about frontman Anthony Kiedis’ tumultuous relationship with his former lover, Carmen Hawk, and was released in 1992 as the fourth single from their studio album.
There are extremely complex rhymes used in the song. Ballads by Led Zeppelin, such as “The Battle of Evermore” and “Friends,” served as the basis for Frusciante’s main riff. A 12-string guitar and a Mellotron with a flute patch are also the main staples in the song!
Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin
Cc Youtube
Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/xbhCPt6PZIU
Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” is a classic rock song included as the final track on the group’s fourth studio album, “Led Zeppelin IV,” in 1971. One of the greatest rock songs of all time, it is renowned for its epic length, complex structure, and recognizable guitar tones.
The song’s legendary status is enhanced by the variety of guitar tones used in it. It features a combination of acoustic and electric guitar tones, intricate guitar effects, and legendary guitar solos, making it a timeless classic. Jimmy Page’s masterful guitar work and the song’s epic composition and emotional lyrics have cemented its status as one of the greatest rock songs ever.
Mama, I’m Coming Home by Ozzy Osbourne
cc Youtube
Youtube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0siYUjV9UM
Ozzy Osbourne, a legendary figure in British heavy metal, wrote the song “Mother, I’m Coming Home,” released in 1991 as the third single from his album “No More Tears.” The song’s sincere lyrics, strong vocals, and dramatic guitar tones have made it famous. It was co-written by Osbourne, Zakk Wylde, and Lemmy Kilmister.
The emotional impact and musical beauty of “Mother, I’m Coming Home” are enhanced by the guitar tones employed in the song. It combines clear electric and 12-string acoustic guitar tones, moving guitar solos, and understated guitar effects to create a vibrant and musical sound. The music musicians’ emotional depth and intensity via Zakk Wylde’s soulful guitar work make it a standout and potent ballad in Osbourne’s catalog.
I Stay Away by Alice In Chains
Youtube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODTv9Lt5WYs
Stay Away” is a song by the American rock band Alice in Chains. It was released as the lead single from their EP, “Jar of Flies,” in 1994. The song was written by the band’s guitarist and vocalist, Jerry Cantrell, and it features the distinctive vocal harmonies of Cantrell and the late lead vocalist, Layne Staley.
“I Stay Away” is known for its haunting and introspective lyrics, which touch on isolation, addiction, and inner struggles. The song’s sad tone is complemented by its acoustic-driven instrumentation, featuring acoustic guitars, a mournful cello, and atmospheric percussion. The song’s chorus, “I stay away, I stay away,” is repeated throughout, reflecting a desire to distance oneself from pain or hardship.
The Rolling Stones – As Tears Go By
cc Wikipedia
Song Link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37_J7zpD2ks
Although the Rolling Stones first wrote “As Tears Go By,” Marianne Faithfull made the song famous in 1964. It’s a traditional baroque rock and pop song.
The Rolling Stones later re-recorded and released the song in 1965. On a 12-string guitar and a standard acoustic, “As Tears Go By” is relatively simple to play. The chords are G, A, C, D, and Em.
’39 by Queen
Youtube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kE8kGMfXaFU
Brian May wrote the tune “39.” He is, for those who don’t know, Queen’s guitarist. In this song, he uses his stunning 12-string acoustic guitar. It sounds fantastic. Also, he sings most of the part himself.
The song portrays the tale of astronauts preparing for the journey into space. After being released in 1975, it quickly gained popularity.
Hotel California by The Eagles
cc Discogs
Youtube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09839DpTctU
Lesson Plan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIDdI-AtK-Q
Hotel Califonia is the most well-known 12-string acoustic guitar tune ever. Since its 1976 release, many people have continued to listen to it. It’s also not that tough to play, and it sounds so lovely that it will melt your heart.
Once you’ve learned the first few chords, you’ll be able to learn how to play the song because the main theme is evident for almost the entire duration of the song.
Nothing Else Matters (Elevator Version) by Metallica
Youtube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63Q7XwM4MNM
The version of Nothing Else Matters recorded using a 12-string guitar was from one of their “Sad But True” singles. It essentially mimics the original song but is entirely layered using 12-string guitars. You can play along to the original Nothing Else Matters using a 12-string guitar. The orchestral components were also given much more prominence in the mix in the Elevator Version, which is one of its more excellent features.
This follows the original track. Thus, you’ll need to hybrid-pick it. If that’s too difficult, you may also fingerpick it. It also uses natural harmonics on the 12th fret, a less common technique on a 12-string. Thus it will require a light touch to the ring.
The Beatles – If I Needed Someone
In 1965, “If I Needed Someone” was released. On the album “Rubber Soul,” it was included. When it was first released, many fans thought it was Harrison’s finest song.
Harrison wrote the song for his wife, Pattie Boyd. On the other hand, the lyrics have a dark tone and have been perceived as a message to a casual love interest.
Whatever That Hurts- Tiamut
cc Youtube
Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/iB9YYC-8jwY
The Swedish metal band Tiamat is significantly different from the other bands and artists on the list. However, some 12-string guitar arpeggio passages in the song are worth hearing.
In 1994, “Whatever That Hurts” was published. It is one of the band’s greatest and most profound songs. The music video is also remarkable.
Early Morning Rain by Gordon Lightfoot
Cc Youtube
Youtube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1pqttl9aWm0
Gordon Lightfoot wrote and recorded this timeless song in the middle of the 1960s for his album “Lightfoot!”
You only need to drop your two lowest strings by two semitones to D to play this on a 12-string guitar tuned in drop D. Additionally, you’ll require a capo for the guitar’s third fret
Can I Play Songs That Are Composed With 6-String Guitars On My 12- String?
Yes, you can play songs composed for a 6-string guitar on a 12-string guitar. The 12-string guitar has two extra strings tuned to the same notes as the highest-pitched strings on a regular 6-string guitar. Play the same chords and notes as you would on a 6-string guitar but with the added richness and complexity of the 12-string’s extra strings. However, some chords and techniques may be more challenging to play on a 12-string guitar, so practice is essential to get comfortable with the differences and make the most of the 12-string’s unique sound.
About Us
Zager Guitars is a family-owned third-generation guitar builder building guitars in Lincoln, Nebraska, since 1902. Zager is rated in the top 5% of all guitar brands and has been featured in Time Magazine, Newsweek, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Rolling Stone, The New Yorker, ABC, NBC, CBS, CNN, FOX, and a multitude of national and international news media. Zager also donates over $1M in guitars to children and public schools nationally, more than any other acoustic guitar maker.
To achieve the levels of playability that Zager guitars deliver, it requires a “precision build.” This means computer-controlled milling, laser-guided cutting, and robotic sanding and finish application. Bob Taylor of Taylor Guitars uses the automated building on their most expensive models because a computer build is always more precise than a hand build
.Zager does one thing differently, though. Where Taylor keeps their machines in Mexico and the US, we keep ours in Indonesia, where wood and materials for guitar building are 50% lower in price. This way, you receive a guitar with the most cutting-edge technology available today for $3000 instead of $6000-$10,000.
Denny Zager Guitar Learning Lesson Guide
Look at the best guitar players in the world; they have one thing in common. They play guitar by ear. Since 1969 Denny Zager’s taught millions of people to play guitar using his internationally acclaimed “Play-By-Ear” guitar method that shows you how to tap into that part of your brain scientists, say we rarely use “Play-By-Ear” as the pros do. The Zager Guitar Lesson Library allows you to learn guitar using a revolutionary guitar system one-on-one with an actual guitar master.
Denny regularly adds new material to his library, so there’s always something new and exciting to learn. For 2016 he’s expanding his library to over 150 hours of streaming lessons with over 10,000 Easy Play tabs and hundreds of his patented guitar arrangements making this the largest guitar lesson library in the world.
FAQs
Can You Play Any Song on a 12 String Guitar?
It’s incredibly easy for musicians to play 12 strings on regular guitars and the same songs and notes. Any song written in 6 columns will immediately be enhanced. Anything written on 12 is possible on a standard guitar.
Who Is Famous For Playing a 12-String Guitar?
In the mid-’60s, guitarists such as George Harrison and James / Roger McGuinn were known for the 12-string guitar. During the 1960s revival, a 12-string guitar was widely used in folk bands such as the Eagles, Rhythm & Blues.
