Reconnecting with the Ukulele: Best Songs for Renewed Learning

Returning to the ukulele after a year-long hiatus? You're not alone. Many musicians, at various times in their quest to learn multiple instruments, may find themselves getting out of practice. If you are someone who took up the ukulele for a year and found yourself skilled at it, only to decide to quit, you're in a unique position to pick up where you left off and perhaps even explore more advanced techniques.

Creating a Motivational Playlist

Deciding on the best songs to play after a year of not playing the ukulele involves a few key considerations. The ideal songs are those that reignite your passion and inspire you to revisit the instrument regularly. These songs should not only be enjoyable but also lead you to discover new pieces and techniques that deepen your musical journey.

Consider Your Skill Level and Interests

When selecting songs, it's essential to think about your current skill level with the ukulele. If you still remember many of the chords, you might be able to tackle songs that require a few more advanced techniques. However, always remember that the joy of playing should not be overshadowed by the challenge. Start with simpler songs if your focus is not on speed but on revival and enjoyment.

Popular Songs for the Ukulele

Here are a few popular ukulele songs that you might find inspiring and suitable for a beginner or intermediate player:

"Somewhere Over the Rainbow" - This classic from the 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz" is not only emotionally evocative but also slightly challenging for its memorable melody and chord progression. "What a Wonderful World" - Louis Armstrong's iconic tune is a great choice for beginners and can help you refine your strumming patterns and rhythm. "Happy" - Pharrell Williams' upbeat hit is easy to pick up with simple melodies and can be a fun and invigorating way to start practicing again. "Can't Help Falling in Love" - This romantic ballad is a bit more challenging but provides a beautiful opportunity to explore some chord changes and finger placement.

Exploring Beyond the Basics

As you return to playing, you may find that you're eager to challenge yourself with more complex pieces. Here are a few suggestions that can help keep you motivated and engaged:

"Mr. Brightside" - By The Killers, this rock ballad can be a fun challenge with its distinctive chord progression and rhythmic strumming pattern. "Those Were the Days" - An upbeat song with a straightforward chord progression, it can be a delightful way to practice playing rhythm. "Clair de Lune" - If you have an interest in classical music or want to explore more intricate melodies, this Claude Debussy piece arranged for ukulele can be a rewarding challenge.

Reconnecting with Enjoyment

Ultimately, the best songs for you to play are the ones that set you up for a positive and enjoyable experience. If you find that you're investing time and effort into playing the ukulele without finding satisfaction in the process, it's important to reassess your goals. Perhaps it's time to focus on picking more melodies you truly enjoy, or perhaps you're ready to start learning to play by ear or understand more about music theory.

Remember, the joy of playing the ukulele lies in the journey, not just the destination. If you're enjoying yourself, you'll be more likely to continue playing and exploring new musical territories.

Additional Resources

For further guidance and inspiration, consider checking out online tutorials, ukulele communities, and platforms like YouTube, where you can find a wealth of instructional videos and live performances. Joining a local ukulele group or participating in online forums can also be great ways to connect with other players who share your passion for this instrument.

Conclusion

Returning to the ukulele after a break requires a mix of familiarity, new challenges, and a focus on enjoying the process. By choosing songs that match your current skill level and interests, and by keeping the joy of playing at the forefront of your mind, you can successfully reconnect with the instrument and embark on a new and exciting journey in your musical pursuits.