Introduction
Hello, music enthusiasts! Are you ready to embark on a melodious journey through the vibrant world of Bollywood music? Today, we bring you a curated list of the 7 best Bollywood songs to play on guitar. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or a beginner looking to showcase your strumming skills, these songs are sure to captivate your heart and leave you humming along.
1. “Tum Hi Ho” – Arijit Singh
🎸 One of the most iconic romantic ballads of recent times, “Tum Hi Ho” from the movie “Aashiqui 2” is a perfect choice for guitar enthusiasts. Its soulful melody and simple chord progression make it an ideal song for beginners to practice their fingerstyle technique. Let the emotions flow as you strum along!
2. “Kal Ho Naa Ho” – Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy
🎸 “Kal Ho Naa Ho” is not just a song but an emotion that resonates with millions. With its enchanting guitar intro and unforgettable lyrics, this title track from the movie of the same name is a classic for every guitarist’s repertoire. Let your fingers dance across the fretboard and bring this beautiful melody to life.
3. “Kabira” – Tochi Raina & Rekha Bhardwaj
🎸 “Kabira” from the movie “Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani” is an enchanting blend of folk and contemporary music. The acoustic guitar plays a central role in creating the song’s magical ambiance. Its intricate strumming patterns and heartfelt lyrics make it a must-learn for aspiring guitarists seeking a touch of versatility.
4. “Pee Loon” – Mohit Chauhan
🎸 Mohit Chauhan’s soul-stirring voice coupled with the mesmerizing tune of “Pee Loon” from the movie “Once Upon A Time in Mumbai” makes it a fantastic choice for guitarists. The song’s soft and soothing melody, accompanied by acoustic chords, creates an intimate atmosphere that will leave your audience spellbound.
5. “Tere Bina” – A.R. Rahman
🎸 A.R. Rahman’s musical genius shines through in the soulful composition “Tere Bina” from the movie “Guru.” This song features a beautiful fusion of Indian and Western music, with the guitar playing a prominent role. Dive into the intricate guitar riffs and let the magic of Rahman’s composition take your breath away.
6. “Tujhe Dekha Toh” – Jatin-Lalit
🎸 “Tujhe Dekha Toh” from the iconic movie “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” is a timeless classic that continues to win hearts even today. The song’s simple yet captivating guitar chords, combined with its romantic lyrics, create an enchanting experience for both the player and the listener. So, pick up your guitar and serenade your loved ones with this evergreen melody.
7. “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” – Pritam
🎸 “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” title track is an embodiment of love and heartbreak, beautifully captured in its soul-stirring melody. Featuring a blend of acoustic and electric guitars, this song demands both skill and emotion from the guitarist. Let the hauntingly beautiful tunes of this song resonate through your fingertips and captivate everyone around.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Playing Bollywood Songs on Guitar
Advantages:
1. Cultural Connect: Playing Bollywood songs on the guitar allows you to connect with the rich cultural heritage of India. It provides a window into the diverse musical traditions woven into the fabric of Bollywood music.
2. Versatility: Bollywood songs span various genres and styles, offering a wide range of musical experiences for guitarists. From catchy dance numbers to soulful ballads, there’s something for everyone.
3. Emotional Expression: Music has the power to convey emotions like no other art form. By playing Bollywood songs on the guitar, you can channel your emotions and express them through beautiful melodies, enhancing your musical journey.
4. Popular Demand: Bollywood music enjoys immense popularity not only in India but also worldwide. Being able to play these songs on the guitar enables you to connect with a larger audience and cater to their musical preferences.
5. Skill Enhancement: Learning and mastering Bollywood songs on the guitar can significantly enhance your guitar-playing skills. The intricate chord progressions, unique strumming patterns, and improvisation opportunities challenge and improve your musical abilities.
6. Collaborative Opportunities: Bollywood songs are often performed with a full band, providing guitarists with opportunities to collaborate with other musicians. Playing in a band setting can further enhance your musicality and help you grow as a guitarist.
7. Joy and Satisfaction: There’s an unparalleled joy and satisfaction in being able to play your favorite Bollywood songs on the guitar. It brings a sense of accomplishment and allows you to share your love for music with others.
Disadvantages:
1. Complexity: Some Bollywood songs can be quite complex, with intricate chord progressions and fast-paced strumming patterns. It may take considerable time and effort to master these songs, especially for beginners.
2. Language Barrier: Bollywood songs are predominantly in Hindi or other regional languages. If you’re not familiar with these languages, it can be challenging to grasp the lyrics and pronounce them correctly.
3. Copyright Restrictions: While playing Bollywood songs for personal enjoyment is usually fine, public performances or recordings might require proper licenses and permissions due to copyright restrictions.
4. Limited Repertoire: Although Bollywood songs offer a wide variety of musical styles, the repertoire may not cater to everyone’s musical preferences. If you have a specific taste in music, you may find the selection limited.
5. Technical Demands: Some Bollywood songs demand advanced guitar techniques, such as fingerpicking or intricate solo sections. Mastering these techniques can be challenging and may require dedicated practice.
6. Stereotyping: Playing Bollywood songs on the guitar may lead to being stereotyped as a “Bollywood musician” rather than being recognized for your overall guitar skills. It’s essential to strike a balance between Bollywood and other genres to showcase your versatility.
7. Trending Variations: Bollywood music evolves with time, embracing new trends and styles. Staying updated with the latest Bollywood songs and adapting them to the guitar may require constant effort and musical exploration.
Table: Best Bollywood Songs to Play on Guitar
| Song | Artist(s) | Movie |
|---|---|---|
| Tum Hi Ho | Arijit Singh | Aashiqui 2 |
| Kal Ho Naa Ho | Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy | Kal Ho Naa Ho |
| Kabira | Tochi Raina & Rekha Bhardwaj | Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani |
| Pee Loon | Mohit Chauhan | Once Upon A Time in Mumbai |
| Tere Bina | A.R. Rahman | Guru |
| Tujhe Dekha Toh | Jatin-Lalit | Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge |
| Ae Dil Hai Mushkil | Pritam | Ae Dil Hai Mushkil |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I play Bollywood songs on any type of guitar?
Yes, Bollywood songs can be played on various types of guitars such as acoustic, electric, or classical guitar. However, the choice of the guitar depends on the tone and style you wish to achieve.
2. Do I need advanced guitar skills to play Bollywood songs?
While some Bollywood songs require advanced techniques, there are plenty of beginner-friendly songs as well. With practice and dedication, even beginners can start playing Bollywood songs on the guitar.
3. How can I find accurate guitar chords and tabs for Bollywood songs?
There are several websites, forums, and YouTube tutorials dedicated to providing accurate guitar chords and tabs for Bollywood songs. Utilize them to enhance your learning experience.
4. Are there any specific strumming patterns for Bollywood songs?
Yes, some Bollywood songs have distinct strumming patterns that contribute to their unique sound. It’s essential to listen carefully to the original song and try to replicate the strumming pattern to capture its essence.
5. Can I modify Bollywood songs to suit my playing style?
Absolutely! As an artist, you have the creative freedom to modify Bollywood songs according to your playing style. Experiment with different chord voicings, alternate tunings, and improvisations to add your unique touch.
6. How can I improve my guitar skills while learning Bollywood songs?
Aside from practicing Bollywood songs, focus on building a strong foundation of guitar fundamentals. Work on techniques such as scales, chords, and rhythm playing, which will not only enhance your overall skills but also aid your Bollywood song repertoire.
7. Can I use a capo while playing Bollywood songs on the guitar?
Yes, the capo is a versatile tool that can be used to change the key and pitch of a song without changing the chord shapes. It can be handy while playing Bollywood songs to match the original key or adjust the song to suit your singing range.
8. Are there any iconic Bollywood guitarists I can look up to for inspiration?
Yes, there are several talented guitarists who have made their mark in the Bollywood music industry. Vishal Dadlani, Ehsaan Noorani, Pritam, and Shankar Mahadevan are a few notable names to explore for inspiration.
9. How can I add improvisation to Bollywood songs on the guitar?
Improvisation can add a personal touch to any song, including Bollywood tracks. To add improvisations, you can experiment with scales, incorporate melodic phrases, or adapt the solos to match your guitar-playing style.
10. Can I play instrumental versions of Bollywood songs on the guitar?
Absolutely! Instrumental versions of Bollywood songs are quite popular. You can create your own instrumental arrangements by focusing on the melody, incorporating harmonies, and showcasing your guitar skills through creative interpretations.
11. Are acoustic or electric guitars more suitable for Bollywood songs?
Both acoustic and electric guitars have their own charm when it comes to playing Bollywood songs. While acoustic guitars offer a warm and organic sound, electric guitars provide versatility and can cater to various song genres.
12. How long does it take to learn a Bollywood song on the guitar?
The time required to learn a Bollywood song on the guitar varies depending on factors such as complexity, your existing skill level, and practice routine. With consistent practice, you can start playing simpler Bollywood songs within a few weeks.
13. Can I perform Bollywood songs on the guitar in public without any legal issues?
Performing Bollywood songs in public may require proper licenses and permissions due to copyright restrictions. It’s advisable to familiarize yourself with the copyright laws in your region and obtain the necessary permissions to avoid any legal issues.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve discovered the 7 best Bollywood songs to play on guitar, it’s time to grab your instrument, dive into the mesmerizing melodies, and let your fingers create magic. Whether you’re playing for personal enjoyment, performing for friends and family, or aspiring to be an accomplished Bollywood guitarist, these songs will surely ignite your passion for music.
Embrace the advantages that come with playing Bollywood songs on the guitar – the cultural connection, versatility, and emotional expression. While being aware of the challenges and disadvantages, let them serve as stepping stones to further develop your skills and musicality.
Remember, music is a universal language that brings people together. So, let the enchanting tunes of Bollywood resonate through your strings and create moments of joy and togetherness. Start strumming, and may your musical journey be filled with endless melodies!
Closing Statement
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. Playing copyrighted songs in public or for commercial purposes may require proper licenses and permissions. Please ensure you comply with applicable laws and seek legal advice if needed.
We hope this article has inspired you to explore the world of Bollywood music on the guitar. Remember to prioritize practice, patience, and perseverance as you embark on your musical journey. With dedication, you can unlock the door to limitless musical possibilities.
Thank you for joining us on this musical adventure. Stay tuned for more exciting articles and keep strumming those magical chords!