Best Songs to Play on Ukulele – Our Top 40 Picks

The ukulele, with its distinctive sound and portable size, has become a beloved instrument for musicians of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to strum your first tune or an experienced player searching for a challenge, the ukulele offers a unique musical experience. This article delves into our top 40 picks for the best songs to play on the ukulele. These songs, ranging from timeless classics to modern hits, provide delightful melodies that are perfectly suited for this charming instrument. Each selection comes with a brief description that highlights the song’s history, its relevance to the ukulele, and tips for playing.

1) “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

Perhaps no song captures the gentle, whimsical sound of the ukulele better than Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” This medley, which beautifully blends Judy Garland’s classic with “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong, showcases Israel’s heartfelt vocals and masterful ukulele playing. It’s a staple for ukulele players due to its simple chord progression that allows the emotion of the performance to shine through. This piece is not just a song; it’s an experience, enveloping the listener in a blanket of hope and nostalgia.

2) “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love” is another quintessential ukulele song, known for its romantic lyrics and melody. The song’s slow tempo and tender chords fit perfectly on the ukulele, making it an excellent choice for serenading or a quiet, reflective session. The simplicity of the arrangement allows players of all levels to capture the soulful essence of Elvis’s performance, making it a popular choice at weddings and intimate gatherings.

3) “Riptide” by Vance Joy

“Riptide” by Vance Joy burst onto the scene with its catchy melody and quirky lyrics, quickly becoming a favorite among ukulele players. This song features a repetitive plucking pattern that is fun yet challenging enough to keep intermediate players engaged. The infectious chorus and upbeat rhythm make it an irresistible sing-along choice at parties or casual get-togethers. It’s a modern classic that demonstrates how contemporary songs can adapt beautifully to the nostalgic sound of the ukulele.

4) “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz

Jason Mraz’s “I’m Yours” is synonymous with ukulele music due to its laid-back vibe and joyful beat. This song is particularly popular among beginners because of its simple chord progression and repetitive strumming pattern. The message of love and freedom resonates with a wide audience, making it a staple in many ukulele players’ repertoires. Mraz’s smooth vocals and rhythmic timing provide a great model for those learning to blend singing with their ukulele play.

5) “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen

Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” has been covered by countless artists in various styles, but its composition lends itself beautifully to the ukulele. The song’s profound emotional depth is conveyed through its powerful lyrics and chord changes, offering a more solemn piece for players to express their interpretative skills. The versatility of “Hallelujah” makes it suitable for both solemn occasions and reflective personal moments, providing players the opportunity to explore their emotional range.

6) “La Vie En Rose” by Edith Piaf

Edith Piaf’s “La Vie En Rose” is a song that brings the romantic streets of Paris to the palm of your hand with the ukulele. This classic French ballad, with its poetic lyrics and melodious tune, fits exquisitely on the ukulele, offering a touch of elegance and sophistication. Its slow pace and graceful melody make it a perfect song for those who want to practice playing with emotion and expressiveness.

7) “Hey, Soul Sister” by Train

Train’s “Hey, Soul Sister” captures the essence of pop ukulele music with its lively beat and catchy lyrics. The ukulele prominently drives the rhythm of the song, highlighting how integral the instrument can be in modern pop music. This track is particularly favored for its playful vibe and the joy it brings to listeners and players alike. Its repetitive chord structure allows even beginners to jump in and enjoy playing, making it a fun addition to any ukulele session.

8) “Blank Space” by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space” offers a brilliant example of how a contemporary pop song can be transformed through the ukulele. The song’s catchy hooks and satirical lyrics lend themselves to a playful, acoustic rendition that contrasts sharply with its original high-production pop sound. Playing this song on the ukulele adds a personal, intimate twist, making it ideal for performers who enjoy giving modern hits a unique, stripped-down feel. It’s also a great choice for developing dynamic control, as the song moves between quieter verses and a powerful chorus.

9) “Hello” by Adele

Adele’s powerful ballad “Hello” is transformed when played on the ukulele, turning the soul-stirring powerhouse into a more subdued, introspective piece. The simplicity of the ukulele arrangement allows the emotions conveyed in the lyrics to stand at the forefront, making it a profoundly moving experience for both the player and the audience. This song is particularly effective for advanced players who can explore its emotional depth while maintaining the gentle plucking and strumming patterns that the instrument demands.

10) “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars

Bruno Mars’ “Count on Me” is like a warm, reassuring hug in the form of a song. Its uplifting lyrics and melody make it a perfect fit for the ukulele, offering a cheerful tune that encourages sing-alongs and smiles. This song is especially suited for beginners due to its straightforward chord progression and repetitive strumming pattern. It’s a fantastic choice for teaching young learners or for bringing a light-hearted, positive energy to any gathering.

11) “The A Team” by Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran’s “The A Team” is a hauntingly beautiful song that resonates deeply when played on the ukulele. The song’s soft melody and poignant lyrics about struggle and vulnerability provide a stark contrast to the typically upbeat nature of many ukulele songs. This track challenges intermediate players to convey its somber tone while maintaining the delicate fingerpicking that the song requires. It’s a great piece for those looking to add emotional depth to their repertoire.

12) “Rhythm of Love” by Plain White T’s

“Rhythm of Love” by Plain White T’s shines on the ukulele, bringing out the song’s joyful and carefree spirit. This track is characterized by its upbeat tempo and charming lyrics, making it a crowd-pleaser at social events and gatherings. The rhythm is infectious, and the chord transitions provide a fun challenge for those wanting to improve their timing and strumming skills. It’s an excellent song for ukulele enthusiasts who enjoy playing light-hearted, feel-good music.

13) “Dream a Little Dream of Me” by The Mamas & The Papas

“Dream a Little Dream of Me” by The Mamas & The Papas, when played on the ukulele, transports the listener back to a bygone era. The song’s vintage charm is enhanced by the warm tones of the ukulele, making it a favorite among those who appreciate classics. Its gentle melody and nostalgic lyrics are perfect for late-night sessions or quiet afternoons. This song is particularly suited for players who enjoy blending singing with their ukulele performance, offering a lovely way to practice melodic phrasing and vocal harmonization.

14) “Love Me Do” by The Beatles

“Love Me Do” by The Beatles is a delightful song to play on the ukulele, capturing the essence of early rock and roll with a cheerful beat and simple harmonica lines, which translate well into ukulele chords. This tune is fantastic for beginners, as it features basic chord progressions and a catchy, memorable hook that’s easy to sing along to. The joyful vibe of “Love Me Do” makes it a perennial favorite at social gatherings, ensuring a light-hearted sing-along experience.

15) “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley

Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds” is synonymous with relaxation and positivity, traits that align perfectly with the ukulele’s warm and inviting sound. This song is incredibly popular among ukulele players of all levels due to its reassuring chorus and simple rhythmic pattern. It encourages players to loosen up with its laid-back vibe and reggae rhythm, making it a great choice for anyone looking to add a bit of island flair to their playing repertoire.

16) “Walk Like An Egyptian” by The Bangles

“Walk Like An Egyptian” by The Bangles brings a playful and quirky energy that translates surprisingly well to the ukulele. The distinctive riff and rhythmic changes provide a fun challenge for more experienced players. This song is a great pick for ukulele enthusiasts looking to show off a more dynamic playing style, incorporating fast strums and staccato plucking to mimic the catchy beat of the original track.

17) “Margaritaville” by Jimmy Buffett

Jimmy Buffett’s “Margaritaville” is practically a hymn for beach lovers and those who dream of tropical escapes, making it a perfect match for the ukulele. This song offers a laid-back, sing-along experience with its narrative about beach life and escapism. The chord progression is straightforward, providing a relaxing play experience that’s perfect for beginners and anyone looking to add a summery song to their collection.

18) “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver

John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads” is a classic that holds a special place in the hearts of many, and its heartfelt lyrics and melody make it a rewarding choice for ukulele players. The song’s structure allows for easy adaptation to the ukulele, offering both beginners and advanced players the opportunity to explore its nostalgic and soul-soothing melody. It’s particularly suited for group play and sing-alongs, creating a sense of communal warmth and connection.

19) “Ring of Fire” by Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire” brings a bit of country flair to the ukulele with its iconic trumpet solos converted into catchy ukulele strums. This song is excellent for those looking to expand their repertoire into country music, featuring a mix of simple and sharp chords that reflect the song’s fiery passion. The rhythmic pattern encourages players to explore different strumming techniques, making it a dynamic and engaging piece for performers at all skill levels.

20) “I’ll Fly Away” by Albert E. Brumley

Albert E. Brumley’s gospel classic “I’ll Fly Away” is a spirited and uplifting hymn that resonates beautifully on the ukulele. This song is favored in religious gatherings and spiritual sessions, known for its hopeful lyrics and melody that inspire joy and liberation. The straightforward chord progression makes it accessible for beginners, while the potential for vocal harmonization offers a delightful challenge for more advanced players and singers.

21) “I Don’t Know My Name” by Grace VanderWaal

Grace VanderWaal’s “I Don’t Know My Name” is a song that not only won her the title on America’s Got Talent but also captured the hearts of ukulele players worldwide. Written and performed by VanderWaal on her ukulele, this song epitomizes the innocence and self-discovery of youth. Its simple melody and chords allow beginners to grasp the basics of ukulele playing, while the heartfelt lyrics provide a deeper emotional connection for players and listeners alike. This song is particularly popular among younger ukulele enthusiasts.

22) “Someone To Lava” from Disney

Disney’s “Someone To Lava” is a charming and whimsical song from the short film Lava, which tells the story of a lonely volcano searching for love. Its slow tempo and simple chord progression make it an excellent choice for beginners. The ukulele perfectly complements the song’s theme and tropical island setting, making it a delightful addition to any ukulele player’s repertoire, especially for those who enjoy bringing narrative and emotion to their performances.

23) “You and I” by Ingrid Michaelson

Ingrid Michaelson’s “You and I” is a sweet and uplifting song that resonates well on the ukulele. Known for its cheerful vibe and simple, catchy lyrics, it is a favorite among ukulele players looking for a light-hearted love song. The chord transitions are straightforward yet engaging, making it suitable for ukulele players of all levels. This song is perfect for casual gatherings or intimate performances, where its joyous melody can truly shine.

24) “Over The Rainbow / Wonderful World” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

Another rendition by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, “Over The Rainbow / Wonderful World” blends two classics into one seamless melody. This medley continues to enchant audiences with its soothing tempo and beautiful lyricism, making it a must-play for any ukulele player. The song’s ability to evoke a sense of peace and nostalgia makes it particularly effective for performances aimed at soothing and inspiring listeners. It’s also an excellent choice for players looking to practice melody and harmony on the ukulele.

25) “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton

Eric Clapton’s poignant ballad “Tears in Heaven” is a deeply moving song that adapts well to the ukulele, bringing a new layer of intimacy to its heartfelt lyrics about loss and longing. Playing this song on the ukulele allows for a tender and personal expression, suited for reflective moments or memorial settings. It’s a challenging piece that involves intricate plucking and chord changes, ideal for intermediate to advanced players who wish to convey deep emotions through their music.

26) “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King

Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me” is a classic tune that offers a rich, soulful experience when played on the ukulele. The song’s timeless message of loyalty and friendship is enhanced by the warm tones of the ukulele, making it a popular choice for both solo and group performances. Its moderate tempo and the memorable bass line adapted for ukulele chords provide a satisfying challenge to players aiming to expand their musical expression.

27) “Let It Be” by The Beatles

The Beatles’ “Let It Be” is another iconic song that resonates beautifully on the ukulele. Known for its soothing melody and comforting lyrics, this song offers a sense of calm and reassurance. It’s relatively easy to learn, making it accessible for beginners, yet rich enough in musicality to keep more experienced players engaged. “Let It Be” is especially effective in gatherings where its hopeful message can inspire and uplift the audience.

28) “Twist and Shout” by The Beatles

“Twist and Shout” by The Beatles brings an energetic and lively vibe to the ukulele, encouraging players and listeners to dance and sing along. This upbeat track is fun to play and offers a fantastic way to practice fast strumming and chord transitions. It’s perfect for livening up any party or social event, ensuring that everyone gets up and moves.

29) “Banana Pancakes” by Jack Johnson

Jack Johnson’s “Banana Pancakes” is a soothing song that captures the essence of a lazy, rainy day with its laid-back rhythm and cozy lyrics. This song is an excellent choice for ukulele players looking to convey a sense of warmth and relaxation. Its straightforward chord progression and gentle strumming pattern make it accessible to beginners, while the playful lyrics offer a fun sing-along opportunity for audiences. It’s perfect for morning gatherings or casual brunch settings, bringing a smile to everyone’s face.

30) “You Are My Sunshine” (Traditional)

“You Are My Sunshine” is a traditional tune that holds a cherished place in the hearts of many. Its simple melody and poignant lyrics make it a popular choice for ukulele players of all ages. The song’s adaptability allows it to be played in various styles, from slow and heartfelt to upbeat and joyful. This flexibility makes it a wonderful piece for teaching beginners the basics of the ukulele while allowing more advanced players to experiment with different tempos and emotional expressions.

31) “Blowing in the Wind” by Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan’s “Blowing in the Wind” is a song with powerful lyrics that pose reflective questions about peace, war, and freedom. The timeless nature of this song makes it particularly resonant on the ukulele, emphasizing its folk roots. The chord progression is straightforward yet offers enough variety to keep intermediate players engaged. This song is ideal for social gatherings or educational settings where its message can provoke thoughtful discussion.

32) “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers

Bill Withers’ “Lean on Me” is a soul-stirring anthem of support and friendship, and its uplifting message is beautifully conveyed through the ukulele. This song encourages community and togetherness, making it a great choice for group play or community events. The chord structure is simple, which allows players of all skill levels to join in, and the chorus provides a powerful sing-along moment that can unify a room.

33) “Fire and Rain” by James Taylor

James Taylor’s “Fire and Rain” is a deeply personal song that tells the story of his experiences with loss and hope. When played on the ukulele, the song’s emotional depth is highlighted, offering a tender and intimate performance. This song is well-suited for intermediate players due to its complex chord changes and fingerpicking patterns. It’s a poignant choice for reflective moments or small gatherings where its lyrical depth and melodic beauty can be fully appreciated.

34) “Jolene” by Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” is a vivid storytelling song that brings drama and emotion to the ukulele. The song’s narrative about pleading with Jolene to spare her relationship gives it a compelling edge that’s fascinating to convey on the ukulele. The rhythmic strumming patterns and the minor key of the song provide a nice challenge for players looking to add some country flair to their repertoire. It’s an engaging performance piece that always captures the audience’s attention.

35) “Creep” by Radiohead

Radiohead’s “Creep” brings an alternative rock feel to the ukulele, contrasting the typically cheerful nature of the instrument with darker, introspective lyrics. This song is popular among players who enjoy experimenting with genre blending, providing a stark emotional contrast that can be quite striking on the ukulele. It’s suitable for advanced players interested in exploring more complex chord structures and emotional storytelling through music.

36) “Somebody That I Used to Know” by Gotye

Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used to Know” features a memorable melody and unique rhythm that stand out on the ukulele. The song’s intricate layers of sound and emotional duet provide an interesting challenge for ukulele players looking to replicate its dynamic range. This song is perfect for those looking to push their technical skills and emotional expression, making it a standout piece in modern ukulele performances.

37) “Stay With Me” by Sam Smith

Sam Smith’s “Stay With Me” is a powerful ballad that translates beautifully to the ukulele, lending an additional layer of intimacy to its pleading lyrics. The simplicity of the chord progression allows the emotional weight of the lyrics to shine through, making it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced players. This song is especially effective in solo performances or intimate settings where its soulful melody and heartfelt plea can resonate deeply with the audience.

38) “Skinny Love” by Bon Iver

Bon Iver’s “Skinny Love” is characterized by its hauntingly beautiful melody and poignant lyrics. The song’s stripped-down style is ideal for the ukulele, allowing players to focus on the emotional delivery of the music. Its intricate fingerpicking pattern offers a satisfying challenge for advanced players, while the evocative lyrics provide a deep connection for those performing or listening. This song is a favorite among players who appreciate indie music and want to convey a sense of raw emotion in their performances.

39) “All of Me” by John Legend

John Legend’s “All of Me” is a love ballad that has gained widespread popularity for its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody. When played on the ukulele, this song offers a tender and romantic performance, perfect for serenading or special occasions like weddings. Its relatively simple chord progression is accessible to beginners, yet the emotional depth of the song provides a rich playing experience for more advanced musicians as well. This track is a fitting conclusion to any performance, leaving the audience moved by its message of unconditional love and commitment.

40) “I Will Follow You into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie

Death Cab for Cutie’s “I Will Follow You into the Dark” is a profound and touching song that gains a new dimension when played on the ukulele. The acoustic simplicity of the ukulele complements the introspective lyrics, creating a deeply personal and emotional performance. This song is ideal for intermediate players who are looking to explore more complex fingerpicking patterns and chord variations. It offers a chance to delve into more serious themes while maintaining the intimate feel that is perfect for solo performances or small, cozy gatherings.

The ukulele, with its rich tones and inviting sound, brings a unique charm to a wide array of musical genres, from classic rock to contemporary pop and everything in between. Our curated list of 40 songs showcases not only the versatility of the ukulele but also its ability to connect deeply with audiences through varied emotional landscapes and lyrical themes. Whether you’re a beginner picking up the ukulele for the first time or an experienced musician looking to expand your repertoire, these songs offer a delightful mix of challenges and rewards.

Playing the ukulele can transform a simple melody into a poignant musical experience, enriching both the performer’s skills and the listener’s spirit. Each song on our list has its own story and emotional resonance, providing players the opportunity to explore different styles and express themselves in myriad ways. As you delve into these songs, remember that the beauty of ukulele music lies in its simplicity and the personal touch you bring to each performance. Enjoy the journey of discovery, and may each song add a little more joy and melody to your musical adventures.