Electric Guitar Songs For Intermediate Players in 2025
If you have been playing the electric guitar for a while and are looking to take your skills to the next level, you may be on the hunt for some new songs to add to your repertoire. In this article, we will explore nine electric guitar songs that are perfect for intermediate players in 2025. From classic rock to modern hits, these songs will challenge you and help you improve your technique and musicality.
1. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses (1987)
This iconic rock ballad is a must-learn for any intermediate electric guitar player. The song features a memorable guitar riff that will test your finger dexterity and timing. Slash’s solo in the middle of the song is a true highlight, showcasing his incredible skill and tone. Learning “Sweet Child o’ Mine” will help you improve your bending, vibrato, and overall phrasing on the guitar.
2. “Hotel California” by Eagles (1976)
Another classic rock staple, “Hotel California” is a great song for intermediate players to tackle. The intricate fingerpicking pattern in the intro and the soulful guitar solo in the middle of the song will challenge your precision and control. Don Felder’s guitar work on this track is legendary, and learning to play it will help you develop your own style and sound on the instrument.
3. “Under the Bridge” by Red Hot Chili Peppers (1991)
This alternative rock hit features a beautiful guitar part that is both melodic and rhythmic. The song’s intro riff and chorus chords are perfect for intermediate players looking to improve their fingerpicking and chord transitions. John Frusciante’s subtle yet powerful playing on “Under the Bridge” is a great example of how to create emotion and atmosphere with the guitar.
4. “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin (1971)
Considered by many to be one of the greatest rock songs of all time, “Stairway to Heaven” is a challenging but rewarding piece for intermediate electric guitarists. The song’s acoustic intro and epic electric solo will push your technical abilities to the limit. Jimmy Page’s innovative use of dynamics and effects on this track is a masterclass in guitar playing and songwriting.
5. “Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix (1967)
No list of electric guitar songs would be complete without a nod to the legendary Jimi Hendrix. “Purple Haze” is a classic psychedelic rock track that showcases Hendrix’s innovative approach to the guitar. The song’s iconic riff and blistering solo are a great challenge for intermediate players looking to expand their musical horizons and experiment with new sounds and techniques.
6. “No One Knows” by Queens of the Stone Age (2002)
For those looking for a more modern rock song to learn, “No One Knows” by Queens of the Stone Age is a great choice. The song’s driving riff and catchy chorus will keep you on your toes and push you to play with power and precision. Josh Homme’s guitar work on this track is both aggressive and melodic, making it a fun and challenging piece for intermediate players to master.
7. “Back in Black” by AC/DC (1980)
“Back in Black” is a classic hard rock anthem that is perfect for intermediate electric guitarists. The song’s iconic riff and powerful chorus will help you improve your timing and dynamics on the instrument. Angus Young’s blistering solo in the middle of the song is a great challenge for players looking to improve their speed and accuracy on the guitar.
8. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana (1991)
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” is a grunge rock masterpiece that is a must-learn for intermediate electric guitar players. The song’s simple yet effective riff and powerful chorus are perfect for players looking to improve their rhythm and dynamics. Kurt Cobain’s raw and emotive playing on this track is a great example of how to create impact and intensity with the guitar.
9. “Paranoid” by Black Sabbath (1970)
“Paranoid” is a classic heavy metal song that is perfect for intermediate players looking to add some crunch and power to their playing. The song’s aggressive riff and driving rhythm will challenge your speed and precision on the guitar. Tony Iommi’s heavy and melodic playing on this track is a great inspiration for players looking to explore the darker side of rock music.
Common Questions About Electric Guitar Songs For Intermediate Players
1. How long does it take to learn an electric guitar song as an intermediate player?
The time it takes to learn a new electric guitar song as an intermediate player can vary depending on the complexity of the song and your skill level. On average, it may take a few weeks to a few months to fully master a new song.
2. What are some tips for learning electric guitar songs as an intermediate player?
Some tips for learning electric guitar songs as an intermediate player include breaking the song down into smaller sections, practicing slowly and gradually increasing speed, and focusing on mastering difficult passages before moving on to the next.
3. Should I learn songs by ear or use tabs as an intermediate player?
As an intermediate player, it can be beneficial to learn songs by ear to improve your ear training and musicality. However, using tabs can also be helpful, especially for more complex songs with intricate arrangements.
4. How can I improve my guitar technique as an intermediate player?
To improve your guitar technique as an intermediate player, it’s important to practice regularly, focus on proper form and posture, and challenge yourself with new and challenging songs and exercises.
5. What are some essential skills for intermediate electric guitar players?
Some essential skills for intermediate electric guitar players include mastering basic chords and scales, developing a sense of rhythm and timing, and improving your soloing and improvisation abilities.
6. How can I develop my own style as an intermediate electric guitar player?
To develop your own style as an intermediate electric guitar player, it’s important to listen to a wide variety of music, experiment with different techniques and effects, and focus on expressing your unique personality and emotions through your playing.
7. Should I focus on learning covers or writing my own music as an intermediate player?
Both learning covers and writing your own music can be valuable pursuits for intermediate electric guitar players. Learning covers can help you improve your technique and musicality, while writing your own music can help you develop your creativity and songwriting skills.
8. What are some good resources for finding new electric guitar songs to learn?
Some good resources for finding new electric guitar songs to learn include online tabs and tutorials, guitar magazines and books, and recommendations from other musicians and teachers.
9. How can I stay motivated to practice as an intermediate electric guitar player?
To stay motivated to practice as an intermediate electric guitar player, it’s important to set goals for yourself, practice regularly, and find ways to make practicing fun and enjoyable. Joining a band or taking lessons can also help keep you inspired and motivated.
10. What are some common mistakes to avoid when learning electric guitar songs as an intermediate player?
Some common mistakes to avoid when learning electric guitar songs as an intermediate player include rushing through difficult passages, neglecting to practice with a metronome, and failing to focus on proper technique and form.
11. How can I improve my speed and accuracy on the guitar as an intermediate player?
To improve your speed and accuracy on the guitar as an intermediate player, it’s important to practice scales and exercises designed to increase your dexterity and coordination. Focusing on proper picking and fretting techniques can also help improve your speed and accuracy.
12. What are some good warm-up exercises for intermediate electric guitar players?
Some good warm-up exercises for intermediate electric guitar players include practicing scales, arpeggios, and chromatic exercises to warm up your fingers and improve your dexterity. Stretching and warming up your hands and wrists before playing can also help prevent injuries.
13. How can I improve my tone and sound on the electric guitar as an intermediate player?
To improve your tone and sound on the electric guitar as an intermediate player, it’s important to experiment with different pickups, amps, and effects to find the right combination for your playing style. Focusing on proper string and amp settings can also help enhance your tone and sound.
14. What are some good songs to help improve my bending and vibrato as an intermediate player?
Some good songs to help improve your bending and vibrato as an intermediate player include “Sweet Child o’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses, “Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix, and “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin. These songs feature challenging bends and vibrato techniques that will help you develop your skills.
15. How can I improve my improvisation skills as an intermediate electric guitar player?
To improve your improvisation skills as an intermediate electric guitar player, it’s important to practice scales and arpeggios in different keys and positions, listen to and transcribe solos from your favorite guitarists, and jam with other musicians to develop your ear and musicality.
16. What are some good songs to help improve my fingerpicking as an intermediate player?
Some good songs to help improve your fingerpicking as an intermediate player include “Hotel California” by Eagles, “Under the Bridge” by Red Hot Chili Peppers, and “Blackbird” by The Beatles. These songs feature intricate fingerpicking patterns that will challenge your coordination and control.
17. How can I maintain my motivation and passion for playing the electric guitar as an intermediate player?
To maintain your motivation and passion for playing the electric guitar as an intermediate player, it’s important to set realistic goals for yourself, practice regularly, and seek out new challenges and opportunities to grow as a musician. Remember to have fun and enjoy the process of learning and improving your skills on the guitar.
Final Thoughts
Learning new electric guitar songs as an intermediate player can be a rewarding and challenging experience. By tackling a diverse range of songs from different genres and eras, you can improve your technique, develop your own style, and expand your musical horizons. Whether you are drawn to classic rock, modern hits, or heavy metal, there is a wealth of songs out there waiting for you to explore and master. So pick up your guitar, plug in your amp, and start playing these nine electric guitar songs for intermediate players in 2025. Happy playing!