Ukulele is known as a happy-sounding instrument. It’s small, portable, and relatively easy to learn how to play. And while it’s not typically associated with metal or rock music there’s something about the ukulele that just seems to fit well with some of these heavier genres.
So if you’re looking to add a little edge to your ukulele playing, or just want to mix things up a bit, here’s a comprehensive list of the most interesting metal and rock songs that sound great on this little instrument.
U2 – “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For”
This song is quite easy to play on the ukulele. Except for the Em chord, all of the chords are basic open chords. The intro features a simple two-chord riff that is perfect for beginners, while the chorus features a more complex four-chord progression. When it comes to strumming, you can either go with a simple down-strumming pattern or get a little more creative with an up-strumming pattern. While the easiest way to learning ukulele songs is to by using a tablature, this song is so simple that you can probably figure it out by ear. So if you are only just starting to learn how to play the ukulele, this is a great song to start with.
Metallica – “Enter Sandman”
You might not think that one of the most famous metal songs of all time would work on a ukulele, but it sounds pretty great. The key is to use a baritone ukulele, which has a lower range than a regular ukulele. You’ll also need to tune the ukulele down to low D instead of the standard GCEA tuning. This will give the ukulele a much deeper, richer sound that is more reminiscent of a metal guitar. Additionally, you may want to use a metal pick to get that signature Metallica sound. With a bit of practice, you’ll be playing “Enter Sandman” like a pro in no time.
Iron Maiden – “Fear of the Dark”
Another metal classic, “Fear of the Dark” is a great choice for ukulele players of all levels. The song uses simple chords that can be easily played on a ukulele, and the melody is catchy and easy to sing along to, especially when played in a higher register. The beginning of the song features a simple two-chord riff that is perfect for beginners, while the chorus features a more complex four-chord progression. As with “Enter Sandman”, you’ll want to use a baritone ukulele and tune it down to low D for this one. And if you want to nail that Iron Maiden sound, try using a tremolo picking technique on the ukulele for the solo section.
Nirvana – “Heart-Shaped Box”
Nirvana is one of the most iconic grunge bands of all time, and “Heart-Shaped Box” is one of their most well-known songs. The good news is that this song is quite easy to play on the ukulele. The intro features a simple G chord, followed by C and D chords. The chorus features a more complex progression of G, C, D, Em, and A chords, but it’s still nothing that a beginner ukulele player can’t handle. Since the song is in a lower register, you may want to use a baritone ukulele for this one also. You can also experiment with different strumming patterns to get that signature Nirvana sound.
Muse – “Hysteria”
If you tell any Muse fan that you can play “Hysteria” on the ukulele, you’re sure to get some interesting looks. But trust us, it’s possible. The key to playing this one is in the strumming pattern. You’ll want to use a lot of downstrokes to mimic the sound of the guitar, and you can even add in some palm-muting for good measure. When it comes to the solo, you can either try to emulate Matthew Bellamy’s guitar playing or take a more simplistic approach. Just make sure to have fun with it and you’ll be playing “Hysteria” like a pro in no time.
Led Zeppelin – “Kashmir”
There I no doubt that “Kashmir” is one of the most epic songs ever written. It’s also one of the most difficult to play on the ukulele. But if you’re up for the challenge, it’s worth learning. If you are a ukulele pro, you can try your hand at playing the solo. You will need to use a slide for this one, but if you can master it, it will sound amazing. If you’re not quite ready for the solo, you can still play the song by strumming the chords. Just make sure to use a lot of downstrokes to get that signature Led Zeppelin sound.
Jimi Hendrix – “Purple Haze”
Last but not least, we have “Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix. This classic song is quite easy to play on the ukulele. The intro features a simple G chord, followed by C and D chords. The chorus features a more complex progression of G, C, D, Em, and A chords, but it’s still nothing that a beginner ukulele player can’t handle. When it comes to strumming, you can either go with a simple down-strumming pattern or get a little more creative with an up-strumming pattern. And if you want to nail that Hendrix sound, try using a wah pedal on your ukulele.
So there you have it, seven metal and rock songs that you can play on the ukulele. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these songs are sure to challenge and entertain you. So grab your ukulele and get started today. Who knows, you may just find your new favorite song.
