June 10, 2023 by Klaus Crow
Hi folks, today in this exciting endeavor, you’ll find a meticulously curated compilation of the top 20 best John Mellencamp guitar songs, including chords and tabs for each song.
If you are a guitar lover and a fan of classic rock, chances are you are well-acquainted with the indelible talent and revered artistry of John Mellencamp. I’m a huge fan myself. As a young kid my older brother inspired me to listen to all his records. I’m forever grateful.
Mellencamp is one of the most successful and influential American rock singers and songwriters of all time, with a career spanning over four decades and 24 studio albums.
His music is a blend of heartland rock, folk, blues, and country, and reflects his roots in Indiana and his social and political views. He has sold over 40 million albums worldwide, has been nominated for 13 Grammy Awards and is also a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
In this list you will find songs with different levels of difficulty, from beginner to advanced. Whether you want to learn some easy strumming songs or some beautiful guitar intros, you will find something for you in this list.
To navigate this list, you can use the table of contents below to jump to any song you want. You can also click on the song title to open a new tab with the chords and tabs for that song.
For each song, we have provided some background information, such as the album, release date, lyrics info, and key and included some tips and tricks on how to play the song, such as the strumming pattern, the chord progression, the capo position, and guitar gear.
To practice these songs in the best way on your guitar, I recommend that you follow these steps:
- Listen to the original song several times to get familiar with the melody, rhythm, and structure.
- Take your time to read the chords and tabs thoroughly.
- Start with the easiest songs or the ones you like the most, and work your way up to the harder ones.
- Practice slowly and gradually increase your speed until you can play along with the song.
- Use a metronome or a backing track to keep your timing consistent and accurate.
- Sing along or hum the lyrics if you can to improve your ear and musicality.
- Have fun and enjoy playing the songs!
Without further ado, here is our list of the top 20 best John Mellencamp guitar songs (incl. chords and tabs).
Let’s rock!
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Jack & Diane
“Jack & Diane” is a classic John Mellencamp song released in 1982 on the album “American Fool.” It’s a nostalgic anthem about two young American teenagers and their dreams. Mellencamp wrote the song, inspired by a real-life couple he observed at a basketball game. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1982.
The recording featured Mellencamp on vocals and rhythm guitar, Larry Crane on lead guitar, Toby Myers on bass and Kenny Aronoff on drums. For the recording a Gibson Les Paul Junior with a single P-90 pickup was used into a Fender Deluxe Reverb with a 12-inch speaker.
Guitar chords used in “Jack & Diane” are A, E, D and G. The song is in the key of A, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 116 BPM. The strumming pattern involves a combination of downstrokes and upstrokes, providing a steady rhythm throughout the song. To practice, start by mastering the chord changes and strumming pattern. Pay attention to the dynamics and add accents to highlight the chorus and bridge sections.
Pink Houses
“Pink Houses” is a John Mellencamp song released in 1983 on his album “Uh-Huh.” The song serves as a commentary on the American Dream, highlighting the struggles and disillusionment faced by individuals in small-town America. Mellencamp wrote the song, drawing inspiration from his own experiences and observations of society.
During the recording of “Pink Houses,” John Mellencamp played an acoustic guitar while Mike Wanchic played an electric guitar. The song features a blend of both instruments to create a rich and layered sound. The specific guitar and amp used during the recording may vary, but Mellencamp is known for favoring vintage guitars like the Gibson J-45 and amplifiers such as the Fender Deluxe Reverb.
Chords used in “Pink Houses” are G, C, F and D. The song is in the key of G, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 126 BPM. The strumming pattern follows a classic rock rhythm, with downstrokes emphasized on the main beats and occasional upstrokes for added dynamics. You can play DUDU UDU (D=Down, U=Up).
Small Town
“Small Town” is a heartfelt John Mellencamp song released in 1985 on his album “Scarecrow.” The song reflects on the simplicity, community, and struggles of growing up in a small town. Mellencamp co-wrote the song with George Green, and it resonates with listeners as a nostalgic anthem for small-town life.
During the recording of “Small Town,” John Mellencamp played an acoustic guitar, while Larry Crane played the electric guitar.
Chords used in “Small Town” (according to Ultimate Guitar) are D, G, C, Am, and Em. The song is in the key of B, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 118 BPM. For the strumming pattern you play D-D-DU-DU (D=Down, U=Up), counting 1 – 2 – 3and-4and with each measure.
Hurts so good
“Hurts So Good” is an energetic rock song by John Mellencamp, released in 1982 on his album “American Fool.” The song explores the theme of love’s bittersweet nature, highlighting the addictive and conflicting emotions that come with being in a passionate relationship. Mellencamp co-wrote the song with George Green, infusing it with his signature heartland rock sound.
During the recording of “Hurts So Good,” John Mellencamp played an electric guitar, while Lary Crane and Mike Wanchic contributed additional guitar work. Larry Crane used Marshall amps with an Altair Attenuator and Mike Wanchic, used mainly an old ’62 AC30 and Fender Bassmans in the studio.
Chords used in “Hurts So Good” are A, E, F#m, D . The song is in the key of A, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 135 BPM. For the strumming pattern you can play a straightforward D-DU-U-DU (D=Down, U=Up), counting 1-2and-(3)and-4and. (skip playing the 3 and strum up on the And). To practice, focus on nailing the chord changes, maintaining a tight and energetic rhythm, and incorporating some palm muting for a punchier sound.
Lonely Ol’ Night
“Lonely Ol’ Night” is a heartfelt rock song by John Mellencamp, released in 1985 on his album “Scarecrow.” The song delves into the theme of loneliness and longing for connection, capturing the essence of late nights filled with solitude. Mellencamp co-wrote the song with George Green, infusing it with his signature blend of rock and roots influences.
During the recording of “Lonely Ol’ Night,” John Mellencamp played a Fender telecaster, while Larry Crane contributed additional guitar work. The song features a dynamic guitar sound with a mix of clean and slightly overdriven tones, adding depth to its emotional resonance.
Chords used in “Lonely Ol’ Night” are E, Esus4, A, Asus4 and D. The song is in the key of E, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 123 BPM. For the strumming you can play any 4/4 rhythm pattern like the standard DDUUDU and variations of this, also accenting for added dynamics.
Cherry Bomb
“Cherry Bomb” is an energetic rock song by John Mellencamp, released in 1987 on his album “The Lonesome Jubilee.” Mellencamp wrote the song, infusing it with his signature blend of rock, folk, and country influences. The song was inspired by the teen clubs that Mellencamp used to go to in Indiana in the 1960s.
For the album The Lonesome Jubilee and the song”Cherry Bomb” Mellencamp used a variety of different instruments like dobro, autoharp, banjo, violin and accordion which gives the songs an enormous rich and full sound. He also used four extra vocalists: Crystal Taliefero, Toby Meyers, Mike Wanchic and Pat Peterson.
Chords used in “Cherry Bomb” (according to Ultimate Guitar) are G, Am, Em, Bm, C and C/D. The song is in the key of G, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 134 BPM. The strumming pattern for the song is D-DU-D-DU, counting 1-2and-3-4and.
R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A.
“R.O.C.K. in the USA” is an upbeat rock anthem by John Mellencamp, released in 1986 on his album “Scarecrow.” The song s a tribute to 60s rock and was inspired by several artists that influenced Mellencamp such as Martha Reeves, Mitch Ryder and James Brown.
During the recording of “R.O.C.K. in the USA,” John Mellencamp played electric guitar, while Larry Crane contributed additional guitar work. The song also features prominent drums, bass, keyboards, and backing vocals, creating a full and energetic sound.
Chords used in “R.O.C.K. in the USA” are E, A, D, and B. The song is in the key of E, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 150 BPM. The strumming pattern for the song is D-DU-DU-DU-U-DU-U-DU, counting: 1-2and-3and-4and-(5)and-6and,(7)and,8and. Skipping the 5 and the 7 and strumming up on the “and”.
Crumblin’ Down
“Crumblin’ Down” is a gritty rock song by John Mellencamp, released in 1983 on his album “Uh-Huh.” The song addresses the theme of societal and personal decay, expressing frustration with the state of the world. Mellencamp wrote the song, infusing it with a rebellious spirit and powerful guitar-driven sound.
Chords used in “Crumblin’ Down” are A, G/A, E, G and D. The song is in the key of D, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 146 BPM. The song starts with a cool chord riff that continues into the verse. See chords and tabs.
Crumblin’ down chords and tabs
Rain on the Scarecrow
“Scarecrow” is a heartfelt anthem written by John Mellencamp, released in 1985 on his album of the same name. The song delves into the struggles of the working class, painting a vivid picture of small-town America. “Scarecrow” reached #2 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and #7 on the Billboard Hot 100.
During the recording of “Scarecrow,” John Mellencamp played a Fender Telecaster through a Fender Deluxe Reverb amplifier. The song features a variety of instruments, including drums, bass, keyboards, and acoustic guitar, creating a rich and energetic sound.
Chords used in “Scarecrow” are Em, G, D, and C using the capo on the 2nd fret. The song is in the key of F#m, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 120 BPM. The strumming pattern for the song is a steady down-up strumming style, emphasizing the strong beats to maintain a driving rhythm.
The riff in the intro and throughout the song is a really cool feature the practice and play.
Rain on the scarecrow chords (easy)
Rain on the scarecrow Tabs + Chords (intermediate)
Paper in Fire
“Paper in Fire” is a politically charged song written by John Mellencamp, released in 1987 on his album “The Lonesome Jubilee.” The song tackles the themes of disillusionment and the destructive nature of greed. “Paper in Fire” peaked at #9 on the Billboard Hot 100.
John Mellencamp played a Gibson Les Paul through a Vox AC30 amplifier during the recording.
Chords used in “Paper in Fire” are: B7, E/B, B5, A, E and D, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of around 142 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses is a steady down-up strumming pattern, while the chorus has a more driving and aggressive down-down-up pattern.
Authority Song
“Authority Song” was released in 1983 on his album “Uh-Huh,” the song is an expression of rebellion and the desire to break free from societal norms and reached #15 on the Billboard Hot 100.
During the recording of “Authority Song,” John Mellencamp played a Gibson ES-335 through a Fender Twin Reverb amplifier. The song features a dynamic arrangement with instruments like drums, bass, electric guitar, and piano.
Chords used in “Authority Song” D, G and A. The song is in the key of D, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of around 130 BPM. The strumming pattern for the song is a driving down-downup-down-downup pattern, counting 1-2and-3-4and.
Check It Out
“Check It Out” is a catchy rock song written by John Mellencamp. Released in 1987 on his album “The Lonesome Jubilee,” the song reflects on the struggles and complexities of relationships. “Check It Out” peaked at #14 on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing Mellencamp’s ability to craft relatable and melodic tunes.
During the recording of “Check It Out,” John Mellencamp played a Fender Stratocaster through a Vox AC30 amplifier. The song features a range of instruments including drums, bass, organ, and accordion, creating a textured and lively sound that complements Mellencamp’s emotive vocals.
Chords used in “Check It Out” are: C – G – Gsus4 – F – G/B – Cadd9 – Em7 – Am – D. The song is in the key of C, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 130 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses is a relaxed down-down-up pattern, while the chorus has a more driving down-up-down pattern.
Play guitar
“Play Guitar” is an upbeat rock song written by John Mellencamp. Released in 1983 on his album “Uh-Huh,” the song is a satire of the rock star culture and the idea that playing guitar can make you attractive to women. Mellencamp wrote the song as a way of expressing his frustration with the music industry and his desire to make music on his own terms. Although it didn’t chart as a single, it remains a fan favorite.
Chords used in “Play Guitar” are A, D and G. The song is in the key of A, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of around 130 BPM. The strumming pattern for the song is a steady down-down-up pattern, emphasizing the strong beats to maintain a lively and driving rhythm pattern.
Practice with a metronome or a drum beat / loop to ensure steady timing and become a tight guitar player.
I Need a Lover
“I Need a Lover” was released in 1979 on his album “John Cougar,” the song portrays the longing for a passionate and fulfilling romantic connection.
The guitar intro is an iconic and instantly recognizable part of the song which lasts for about two minutes before the vocals start. The intro consists of a main riff that is played three times in different keys followed by a variation of the riff that is also played in different keys. The riff is based on a pentatonic scale and uses hammer-ons, pull-offs, slides, some guitar fills and solos that add some variation and excitement. The intro is played by Mellencamp and his guitarist Larry Crane, who also co-wrote the song with him.
Chords used in “I Need a Lover” are F#, C#, B, D, A, G. The main key of the song is A, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 138 BPM. The strumming pattern for the song can be played as down-down-up-up-down-up.
Key West Intermezzo (I Saw You First)
“Key West Intermezzo (I Saw You First)” is a vibrant rock song written by Mellencamp and his longtime friend and collaborator George Green, who also worked on songs like “Hurts So Good” and “Crumblin’ Down”. The song was released in 1996 on his album “Mr. Happy Go Lucky,” and captures the excitement and allure of a chance encounter in Key West, Florida. “Key West Intermezzo” reached #14 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it Mellencamp’s final top-40 hit in the US.
Chords used in “Key West Intermezzo”are G, D, C, Am and D/G, tuning a half step down. The song is in the key of G, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of around 120 BPM. The strumming pattern for the song can be played as down-down-up, counting 1-2and-3-4and.
The song has also a catchy guitar intro played by two guitars: one plays a melodic riff that slides up and down the fretboard, while the other plays chords that follow the progression of G-D-C.
Key West Intermezzo chords and tabs
Human Wheels
“Human Wheels” is a heartfelt rock ballad that delves into the complexities of human existence and the pursuit of individual identity. It was written by John Mellencamp and George Green and released in 1993 as the title track of his album “Human Wheels.” The song peaked at number 48 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song was also covered by Amy Grant for her 2005 album Rock of Ages…Hymns and Faith.
During the recording of “Human Wheels,” John Mellencamp used a Gibson Les Paul guitar and a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp.
Chords used in “Human Wheels” (according to Ultimate Guitar): G, C, D, Em, D/F#. The song is in Em, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 80 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses and chorus consists of alternating downstrokes and upstrokes: down, down-up, down, up, down, up, counting 1-2and-3and-4and. Experiment with different embellishments and variations to make the song your own.
Wild Night” (with Meshell Ndegeocello)
“Wild Night” was written by Van Morrison and first released in 1971 on his album “Tupelo Honey.” Mellencamp covered the song with Meshell Ndegeocelloand on bass and vocals and released their version in 1994, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. For the song John Mellencamp used a Fender Stratocaster guitar and a Fender Twin Reverb amp.
Chords used in “Wild Night” (according to Ultimate Guitar): Em, G, C and D. The song is in the key of E minor, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 118 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses and chorus follows a rhythmic down-up-down-up pattern.
To practice “Wild Night,” start by familiarizing yourself with the chord progression and the strumming pattern. Focus on maintaining a consistent rhythm and incorporating the song’s energetic spirit into your playing. Experiment with adding fills and embellishments to make the song more dynamic. Pay attention to the transitions between the chords for smooth and seamless changes. Finally, listen to the original recording and other live performances to capture the essence and feel of the song.
Weakest moments
“Weakest Moments” was written by John Mellencamp and released in 1982 as the closing track of his fifth studio album American Fool. It is a slow and melancholic ballad, with lyrics that express vulnerability and self-doubt. The song feats Mellencamp on vocals and acoustic guitar, George Perry on bass, Kenny Aronoff on drums, Larry Can and Mike Wanchic on electric guitar.
The song was produced by Mellencamp and Don Gehman, who also engineered the album. The song was not released as a single, but it has been praised by critics and fans as one of Mellencamp’s most emotional and honest songs. In a 2007 review of American Fool, Rolling Stone magazine called it “a stunningly beautiful ballad”.
Chords used in “Weakest Moments” (according to Ultimate Guitar): A, Dsus2, A7sus2, G6, D, E, F#m and G. The song is in the key of A major, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 75 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses and chorus consists of gentle downstrokes, emphasizing the emotions of the lyrics. Use a delicate touch to allow the chords to ring out and create a sense of intimacy.
Minutes to memories
Minutes to Memories is a song by John Mellencamp, released in 1985 as the fourth track of his eighth studio album Scarecrow. It is a folk rock song that tells the story of a young songwriter who meets an old man on a bus and learns from his life experiences and advice. The song was co-written by Mellencamp and George Michael Green and produced by Mellencamp and Don Gehman. Minutes to Memories reached number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
During the recording of “Minutes to Memories,” John Mellencamp used a Gibson J-200 acoustic guitar and a Fender Twin Reverb amp.
Chords used in “Minutes to Memories” are D, Cadd9, Dadd2, A and G using the capo on the 2nd fret. The song has a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 120 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses and chorus follows a rhythmic down-up-down-up pattern.
Minutes to memories chords and tabs
Rumbleseat
Rumbleseat is a song by John Mellencamp, released in 1986 as the second single from his eighth studio album Scarecrow, it is a rockabilly song that describes the life of a poor and restless man who rides in the rumble seat of a car. The song was written by Mellencamp and features him on vocals and guitar, Larry Crane and Mike Wanchic on guitars, John Cascella on keyboards, Toby Myers on bass, and Kenny Aronoff on drums.
Chords used in “Rumbleseat” are E, A and B, using the capo on the 1st fret. The song is in the key of E major, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of approximately 150 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses and chorus follows a down-up-down-up-down-up-down-up pattern counting 1and-2and-3and-4and.
Check out the official chords and Tabs in the John Mellencamp Guitar Collection
I hope you enjoyed this list of the top 20 best John Mellencamp guitar songs, and learned some new songs and riffs. John Mellencamp’ songs are great for improving your classic rock guitar skills and have fun along the way.
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Thank you for reading and happy playing!
I
Thanks Klaus, will definitely try them all
Hi Francesca,
One song at a time. Just keep picking away. ;)
Enjoy!
Best,
Klaus