[Western Rock Edition] Recommended Practice Songs for Beginner Bands [2025]

Anarchy in the U.K.SEX PISTOLS

Sex Pistols – Anarchy In The UK

The Sex Pistols, the British band known as a cornerstone of punk rock, released their debut single in November 1976—a work that laid bare a spirit of rebellion against the established music industry and social order.

Featuring fierce guitar riffs and Johnny Rotten’s distinctive vocals, the track is memorable for its simple three-chord structure that makes it easy for beginners to play, while still carrying a passionate message.

Released by EMI Records, it reached No.

38 on the UK Singles Chart.

It has since been covered by many artists and was included in the video game Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock.

This is an ideal song for those who want to master basic band-playing techniques or practice their instruments while learning about the history of punk rock.

Seven Nation ArmyThe White Stripes

The White Stripes – Seven Nation Army (Official Music Video)

A signature track by The White Stripes, characterized by its powerful riff and minimal sound.

Released by the American rock duo in February 2003, the song is included on their fourth album, Elephant.

Its lyrics, depicting a strong resolve to stay true to one’s will despite external pressure and criticism, resonated with many listeners.

The track won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Song and the MTV Video Music Award for Best Editing.

Embraced across the global sports scene, it is also widely used as a chant at international soccer tournaments.

With its simple yet clear chord progression and rhythmic pattern, it’s a highly recommended piece for those learning the basics of band performance.

SexThe 1975

The 1975 – Sex [EP Version]

The 1975 is an indie rock band from the UK that now enjoys worldwide popularity.

They’re known for lyrics with a distinctive worldview and cutting-edge sound production that transcends genres, but ever since their debut, it’s their high-energy, fast-paced rock tunes that have whipped live houses into a frenzy.

Among them, the track titled “Sex” is a number that directly expresses the troubled emotions and desires of youth, and many people probably dream of playing it themselves.

Centered around power chords on guitar and a simple structure with a 16-beat rhythm pattern on bass and drums, it’s a perfect song for beginner bands—its addictive, unforgettable melody delivers the pure joy of performing.

Blitzkrieg BopThe Ramones

Ramones-Blitzkrieg Bop

A song by the Ramones, a rock band synonymous with New York punk that had a major impact on the punk boom after 1970.

With catchy chord progressions and songwriting geared toward call-and-response with the audience, many people in Japan might picture this rather than UK punk when they think of punk.

Every part uses basic, simple techniques, so it’s easy for beginner band members to cover, but what matters more than technique is maintaining the song’s drive and intensity.

It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it a highly recommended number for beginner bands to play live.

American IdiotGreen Day

Green Day – American Idiot [Official Music Video] [4K Upgrade]

A song I highly recommend for beginner bands is “American Idiot,” the signature track by the American punk rock band Green Day.

Packed with sharp criticism of American society and politics, the song satirizes media-driven manipulation of public opinion and the apathetic attitude of the masses.

Despite its strong message of rebellion and individuality, it features an extremely catchy, straightforward melody.

The guitar relies mainly on simple power-chord backing, and the bass and drums aren’t too difficult either, making it easy for beginner bands to perform.

Even more than 20 years after its release, it’s a classic I hope many young rock kids will cover!

Girl friendAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – Girlfriend (Official Video)

A song by Canadian singer-songwriter Avril Lavigne, whose debut album, released at the tender age of 17, sold around 20 million copies worldwide and has continued to be loved by listeners around the globe since that striking debut.

It’s a catchy, upbeat number that really gets crowds going live.

The drums feature many fills and have some challenging parts, but if you can’t quite manage them, it’s fine to simplify to match your skill level.

The guitar and bass don’t use difficult techniques, but if you’re comfortable, adding backing vocals while playing will bring you closer to the feel of the original.

With its moderate level of difficulty, it’s a great choice for beginner bands to take on.

Help!The Beatles

The Beatles – Help!

A legendary rock band whose music has influenced virtually every musician in the world: The Beatles.

This track features the quintessential Beatles blend of beautiful harmonies and a lively rhythm, making it a delight to listen to.

The fast tempo can make it feel challenging, but each part has few notes and the playing is simple, so it’s actually easy to cover.

However, while the techniques themselves are straightforward, if you don’t include the harmonies properly, it ends up sounding like a completely different song.

You’ll need to practice singing harmonies while playing your instrument.

Since many songs require harmonies, this is a perfect piece for beginner band members who will be tackling all kinds of songs from here on out.