Last Updated on May 24, 2019 by Klaus Crow
Today I’m going to show you a simplified fingerstyle version of The House of the rising sun by the Animals. This is ideal for beginner guitar players.
You will recognize the song instantly and most people probably wouldn’t notice the difference. In fact there are many guitar players who just play it this way, and aren’t even aware they are playing the simplified version.
It’s an easy and widely used fingerpicking pattern that you will also come across in many other popular songs. I’d say a win-win situation.
Tip: Try to memorize chord progression of the song in the video. That way you will likely to pick up your guitar several times throughout the day to practice the tune and make progress much faster.
The song and the fingerpicking pattern is a classic, it’s fun to play and should definitely be part of your repertoire. A perfect beginner fingerpicking song.
Enjoy!
Please share your comments below. I appreciate it.
I use the ‘Hammer & Claw’ picking style.
With VERY arthritic fingers, this is easier for me.
Will look into this style though.
Thanks.
More of this please.
Keep it up!
I’ve been playing this version since I was 16 (back in the mid-’60s). I still play it, but embellish with a few hammer-ons and licks between the chords. One of my all-time favorites.
Very good thanks
Hi Wally,
Everything goes, as long as you have fun with it.
There are several techniques you can apply to this song, and they all sound great in their own way.
Klaus
Hi Jake,
I will. Keep checking.
Klaus
Hi Rachael,
Thank you too. Have fun with the lesson.
Best,
Klaus
Hi Michael,
It’s a classic that will always remain in the guitar player’s hall of fame.
It’s just a great guitar song in all it’s simplicity.
The choice of chords is a big part of what makes the song so intriguing.
Thanks for your comment.
Best,
Klaus
Wow !! Amazing article
Thank you for sharing this wonderful information.
I feel glad after this article.
thank you for this article this helps me a lot
Great stuff. Cheers!
An excellent tutorial.
The simple version is great particularly as practice for the chord changes and finger pattern.
Thank you.
You’re really helped my confidence Klaus,I’m enjoying the finger picking pattern ,thank you
Hi Raam,
You’re welcome. Happy to hear you like video lesson. :)