Absolute Best Acoustic Songs of All Time
If you love music, chances are you’ve come across acoustic songs before. And since you’re here, I’m guessing you enjoyed that unique, warm sound and intimate vibe acoustic songs have. Same here, I’m a fan too. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the best acoustic songs of all time.
This collection includes some of the most beautiful acoustic songs ever made. You’ll find everything from iconic MTV Unplugged performances, to hidden gems from the ’60s, and also popular hits you might have missed.
Each track is listed with essential info about it, so that you can easily check how it sounds, and learn its background. At the end I put a separate playlist featuring all the songs – a sort of my ultimate acoustic music collection. Feel free to save it and enjoy at any time.🎧
What Makes a Song Acoustic?
Just to clarify, let’s first define what acoustic songs are, as I’ve often seen some confusion about what qualifies as an acoustic composition. Some people think that a song can only be acoustic if it uses an acoustic guitar, but that’s not entirely true. Other instruments like pianos, acoustic bass, violins, cellos, and hand drums can also be used – but they must be unplugged and not electric versions.
They key element of acoustic songs is their natural authentic sound. That’s why instruments are played unplugged and with minimal to no electronic effects. Other instruments can actually enhance the acoustic vibe and that special feel that we love so much about this style of music.
Now let’s get straight to the list.
Jackson C. Frank – “Blues Run the Game“
A timeless masterpiece by one of the biggest hidden gems in music history – Jackson C. Frank. This mane wrote absolutely wonderful songs that many music fans never even heard. His acoustic style is so authentic and mesmerizing, I just wish more people discover his legacy and enjoy his work. “Blues Run the Game” is one oh his best songs.
Johnny Cash – “Hurt“
Johnny Cash’s version of “Hurt” is one of the most heartbreaking and emotional songs you can find. Especially if you watch it the official music video. This acoustic performance will forever stay in your memory, trust me on that.
You+Me – “You and Me“
You+Me is a duo consisting of Alecia Moore (known as Pink) and Dallas Green (known as City and Colour). I never expected them to collaborate on a project of this genre, but I am really happy they did. Their harmony and toned down acoustic style sound just perfect.
Nirvana – “Lake of Fire”
One of the most iconic shows by legendary Nirvana. The leaders of the grunge genre delivered an otherworldly performances in their MTV live album. They did 14 songs total, and honestly any of those deserves a spot in this list – they all are exceptional. But Nirvana’s “Lake of Fire” version has such a crisp vocals by Kurt Cobain, and sich an amazing acoustic guitar sound, that I chose this track in particular.
Elliott Smith – “Between The Bars“
No list of greatest acoustic songs is possible without Elliott Smith. He wrote and performed incredible music that feels so emotional and very introspective. If you enjoy indie folk genre, you should definitely check his other popular songs.
Nick Drake – “Day Is Done“
Yet another hidden gem, that millions of music fans are missing on. Nick Drake is one of the godfathers of folk genre, his albums have amazing tracks which I highly recommend. And he was a very skilled guitar player with his own unique style. “Day Is Done” is a prime example of how instruments like cello and violin can enhance an acoustic composition.
Pink Floyd – “Wish You Were Here”
Pink Floyd hardly needs an introduction – they are one of the greatest music bands ever. And their masterpiece “Wish You Were Here” is one their most recognized songs. This acoustic marvel has no flows, it knows no genre boundaries, it a music perfection.
America – “A Horse With No Name“
“A Horse With No Name” for me is the best song by the folk rock trio America. The combination of instruments (acoustic guitars, bass guitar, drum kit, and bongo drums) and the incredible melody makes this hit a must-have in the list.
Israel Kamakawiwoʻole – “Over the Rainbow“
“Over the Rainbow” performed Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwoʻole is an iconic song, that I’m sure you’ve heard before. It’s been used in plenty of entertainment pieces by now. This version’s simplicity and Israel’s vocals make it a truly timeless composition.
Jack Johnson – “I Got You“
If we are talking about the greatest acoustic hits, we can’t omit Jack Johnson. This man’s signature acoustic guitar sound is way too good to not mention in this list. And his song “I Got You” never gets old. It’s so relaxing and chill at the same time.
Kings Of Convenience – “Cayman Islands”
Kings Of Convenience are one of my favorite bands, but that’s not why I picked their song for this list. With the type of music this duo creates, they could have taken a name of Kings Of Acoustics, honestly. Just listen to “Cayman Islands” and you’ll understand what I mean. They might remind you Simon & Garfunkel, but I think their sound is uniquely charming.
Simon & Garfunkel – “Scarborough Fair/Canticle”
Speaking about Simon & Garfunkel, this legendary folk rock duo are the authors of some of the most iconic hits in music history, period. Just to name a few: “Mrs. Robinson”, “Bridge over Troubled Water” and “Scarborough Fair/Canticle”. Any of them has the right to be in this chart, but Scarborough Fair is probably the more popular one.
Ben Howard – “End of the Affair”
Ben Howard is a tremendous musician, I’ve been a fan of his music for as long as I can remember. Part of what makes him great is his guitar skills. His live performances are incredible, and his acoustic versions never fail to amaze. “End of the Affair” is a must see and listen if you are looking for the finest acoustic songs.
Queen – “Love Of My Life”
Queen is one of the greatest bands of all time, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that they also have absolutely amazing acoustic performances. I mean, what else would you expect from such virtuosos as Freddie Mercury and Brian May? The studio version of “Love Of My Life” is a gorgeous song in its own right, but it is the acoustic version that got a spot in this list.
Pearl Jam – “Black (MTV Unplugged)”
Pearl Jam’s “Black” performed during their MTV Unplugged show definitely deserves a spot here. The acoustic guitars, Eddie Vedder’s vocal, the drums – everything sounds perfect in it.
The Beatles – “Yesterday”
If you ever start learning the guitar, you most likely will learn how to play this universal hit as well. “Yesterday” performed by Paul McCartney is instantly recognized everywhere in the world. And equally beloved by millions of music fans.
Led Zeppelin – “Babe I’m Gonna Leave You”
Led Zeppelin‘s impact on music is huge. So many bands have been influenced by this iconic group. And while acoustic sound might not be the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of Led Zeppelin, it was a big part of their identity, of how they wrote music. “Babe I’m Gonna Leave You” is pretty much all acoustics and the song is just unbelievable.
Neil Young – “Old Man”
Neil Young with his iconic hits “Old Man” and “Heart of Gold” surely belong in the conversation for the greatest acoustic song of all time. These two songs will never loose their charm and forever remain as a staple of supreme acoustic sound.
Goo Goo Dolls – “Iris”
This is an eternal love song, and since its release in 1998 has become a classic track not only for the fans of acoustics but for pretty much everyone who loves music. Undeniable hit and well deserved spot on the list.
Kansas – “Dust in the Wind”
What started as a mere finger exercise for learning fingerpicking, turned out into one of the most famous and appreciated acoustic songs ever. “Dust in the Wind” by Kansas is simple yet a powerful composition. And the creative addition of violin only makes it better.
Playlist Featuring All The Songs
If you want to enjoy all these beautiful acoustic songs in a single go, here’s the playlist for you. I’ve got both Spotify and YouTube versions – choose whichever music player you prefer.
