Easy songs for baritone ukulele are the perfect starting point for new players eager to strum along to their favorite tunes. The baritone ukulele, with its deeper tone and unique tuning—usually D-G-B-E—offers a distinctive sound that sets it apart from the traditional soprano, concert, or tenor ukuleles. Despite its slightly more complex tuning, many beginner-friendly songs can be adapted for the baritone ukulele, making it accessible for those just starting their musical journey. Whether you're learning for fun, performing for friends, or preparing for a casual gig, mastering easy songs on your baritone ukulele is an achievable and rewarding goal.
---
Why Choose Easy Songs for Baritone Ukulele?
Playing easy songs on the baritone ukulele provides several benefits:
- Builds Confidence: Simple chords and strumming patterns help beginners gain confidence.
- Develops Technique: Repetition of basic chords enhances finger strength and dexterity.
- Expands Repertoire: Familiar tunes make practice more enjoyable and motivate continued learning.
- Facilitates Transition: Learning easy songs prepares players for more complex arrangements later on.
---
Understanding the Baritone Ukulele
Before diving into song selection, it’s essential to understand the instrument’s tuning and characteristics:
Tuning of the Baritone Ukulele
The standard tuning for a baritone ukulele is D-G-B-E, similar to the bottom four strings of a guitar. This tuning influences chord shapes and how songs are transcribed or adapted.
Differences from Other Ukuleles
- Size and Sound: Slightly larger with a deeper, more mellow tone.
- Chord Shapes: Some chords differ from soprano or concert ukulele shapes, although many are similar.
- Playing Style: Due to its tuning, some players find it easier to adapt guitar chords for the baritone.
---
How to Find Easy Songs for Baritone Ukulele
Not all songs are equally accessible for beginners. Here are key tips to find and select easy songs suitable for the baritone ukulele:
1. Focus on Songs with Simple Chord Progressions
Look for tunes that primarily use basic chords like C, F, G, Am, Dm, and E7. These chords are common and easy to learn.
2. Choose Songs with Repetitive Patterns
Songs with repetitive chord sequences help reinforce muscle memory and make learning quicker.
3. Opt for Well-Known Tunes
Familiar songs are more motivating and easier to memorize, especially when lyrics and melodies are recognizable.
4. Use Resources Designed for Ukulele Beginners
Websites, chord charts, and tutorial videos tailored for ukulele beginners often include simplified arrangements.
---
Top Easy Songs for Baritone Ukulele
Below is a curated list of popular and easy-to-play songs that sound great on the baritone ukulele. They are suitable for beginners and can be adapted with simple chords.
1. "Riptide" by Vance Joy
- Chords Needed: Am, G, C
- Why It’s Great: The song features a straightforward progression and a catchy melody, making it ideal for beginners.
2. "Counting Stars" by OneRepublic
- Chords Needed: Am, C, G, F
- Why It’s Great: Repetitive chords and rhythm make this a fun and manageable song.
3. "Someone Like You" by Adele
- Chords Needed: C, G, Am, F
- Why It’s Great: Slow tempo and simple chords allow for expressive playing.
4. "Stand By Me" by Ben E. King
- Chords Needed: C, Am, F, G
- Why It’s Great: Classic tune with easy chord transitions.
5. "I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz
- Chords Needed: B, F, Gm, E (can be simplified to G, C, D for easier play)
- Why It’s Great: Its relaxed vibe and simple strumming make it perfect for beginners.
6. "Hey Soul Sister" by Train
- Chords Needed: C, G, Am, F
- Why It’s Great: Highly recognizable with straightforward chords.
7. "Counting Stars" by OneRepublic
- Chords Needed: Am, C, G, F
- Why It’s Great: Repetitive and easy to learn.
8. "Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen
- Chords Needed: C, Am, F, G
- Why It’s Great: Slow pace and simple chords for emotional expression.
---
Adapting Songs for the Baritone Ukulele
Since most song chords are written for guitar or other instruments, some adaptation may be necessary for the baritone ukulele:
1. Transposing Chords
- Some chords may need to be transposed to fit the ukulele’s tuning.
- Use online transposition tools or chord charts specially adapted for baritone ukulele.
2. Simplifying Chord Voicings
- Use basic open chords or simplified versions to make playing easier.
- For example, replace barre chords with open-position chords where possible.
3. Capo Usage
- Applying a capo can help match the original key without complex fingerings.
---
Strumming Patterns for Easy Songs
Keeping the right rhythm is key to sounding good. Here are common strumming patterns suitable for beginners:
- Downstrokes only: Simple and effective, especially for slow songs.
- Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up: Provides a lively feel without complexity.
- D D D D: Perfect for maintaining steady rhythm and building timing.
---
Practice Tips for Beginners
To maximize your progress with easy songs on the baritone ukulele, consider these tips:
- Start Slow: Practice each chord transition slowly before increasing tempo.
- Use a Metronome: Helps develop consistent timing.
- Repeat Sections: Repetition improves muscle memory.
- Sing Along: Combines playing with vocal practice.
- Record Yourself: For self-assessment and improvement.
- Play Along with Recordings: Enhances rhythm and timing.
---
Additional Resources for Learning Easy Songs
1. Online Video Tutorials
Platforms like YouTube offer numerous beginner-friendly tutorials specific to the baritone ukulele.
2. Chord Chart Websites
Websites like Ukulele Cheat Sheet or UkuTabs provide chord diagrams and song lists.
3. Mobile Apps
Apps such as “Yousician” or “Ultimate Guitar” include interactive lessons and song libraries.
4. Songbooks
Look for beginner ukulele songbooks that include simplified arrangements for the baritone ukulele.
---
Conclusion
Playing easy songs on the baritone ukulele is an enjoyable and accessible way to develop your musical skills. By focusing on simple chords, familiar tunes, and repetitive patterns, beginners can quickly gain confidence and a sense of accomplishment. Remember to adapt songs to your tuning, utilize available resources, and practice regularly. With patience and dedication, you'll be strumming your favorite tunes on the baritone ukulele in no time, delighting yourself and others with your musical progress.
---
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I play the same songs on a baritone ukulele as on a soprano or concert ukulele?
A1: Many songs can be played on all ukulele types, but chords may need transposing due to different tunings.
Q2: Do I need to learn new chords for the baritone ukulele?
A2: Some chords are different or require barre shapes, but many common chords are similar to guitar chords.
Q3: Where can I find beginner-friendly sheet music for the baritone ukulele?
A3: Websites like UkuTabs, Ukulele Hunt, and songbooks specifically for beginners are great resources.
Q4: How long does it typically take to learn easy songs on the baritone ukulele?
A4: With consistent practice, many beginners can learn basic songs within a few weeks.
Q5: Is it better to learn on a soprano or baritone ukulele?
A5: It depends on your musical goals; the baritone offers a deeper sound and different chord shapes, suitable for guitar players or those wanting a richer tone.
---
Embark on your ukulele journey today by selecting some of these easy songs, practicing regularly, and enjoying the process of making music with your baritone ukulele!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some easy songs for beginners to play on the baritone ukulele?
Popular easy songs for baritone ukulele beginners include 'Stand By Me', 'I'm Yours' by Jason Mraz, and 'Riptide' by Vance Joy, as they use simple chords and straightforward strumming patterns.
Can I play pop songs easily on the baritone ukulele?
Yes, many pop songs are accessible on the baritone ukulele, especially those with simple chord progressions. Songs like 'Counting Stars' by OneRepublic and 'Let It Be' by The Beatles work well for beginners.
What chords should I know for playing easy songs on the baritone ukulele?
Basic chords such as C, F, G7, and Am are essential for many easy songs. The baritone ukulele is tuned differently (D-G-B-E), so familiarizing yourself with its chord shapes is helpful.
Are there any classic songs that sound great on the baritone ukulele?
Yes, classics like 'Sweet Caroline' by Neil Diamond and 'Stand By Me' sound fantastic on the baritone ukulele and are relatively easy to learn for beginners.
How can I find easy sheet music or tabs for baritone ukulele songs?
You can search online for 'easy baritone ukulele tabs' or visit websites like Ukulele Tabs, Ultimate Guitar, or YouTube tutorials tailored for beginners.
Is it possible to play popular love songs on the baritone ukulele easily?
Absolutely! Songs like 'All of Me' by John Legend and 'Thinking Out Loud' by Ed Sheeran are popular choices that can be simplified for the baritone ukulele.
What strumming patterns are best for easy songs on the baritone ukulele?
Simple down-stroke or down-up strumming patterns work well for easy songs. As you progress, you can experiment with more complex patterns to add variety.
Are there any specific genres that are easier to play on the baritone ukulele?
Folk, pop, and mellow ballads tend to be easier for beginners because they often use basic chords and slow tempos, making them ideal for practice.
Can I learn to play 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow' on the baritone ukulele easily?
Yes, 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow' is a popular and relatively simple song to learn on the baritone ukulele, especially if you focus on basic chords and slow strumming.
Are there tutorials available for easy songs for the baritone ukulele?
Yes, many free and paid tutorials are available on YouTube, music lesson websites, and apps that specifically target easy songs for baritone ukulele players.
