Fingerstyle guitar has a way of turning simple notes into profound emotions, carrying the listener on a journey that showcases the artist’s technique, creativity, and pure musicality. Below, we explore 10 incredible fingerstyle guitar tracks that any music lover should hear. Each track offers something unique—whether it’s the story behind the piece, the artist's innovative techniques, or just pure, unfiltered artistry. Dive in and discover a selection of unforgettable music.
1. Antoine Dufour - Ashes in the Sea
Antoine Dufour, a Canadian guitarist known for his intricate technique and soulful compositions, takes us into an introspective space with Ashes in the Sea. The piece blends fingerstyle virtuosity with melodic lines, inviting listeners to feel the emotion in every pluck. Dufour’s harmonics and tapping techniques give the track a shimmering, ethereal quality that has made it a fan favorite. His success has also helped shape the fingerstyle community, inspiring countless guitarists worldwide.
2. Yuki Matsui - Friend
Japanese fingerstyle guitarist Yuki Matsui brings a gentle, evocative sound in Friend. Known for his emotive touch, Matsui explores themes of friendship and warmth in this track. His sophisticated playstyle feels almost cinematic, with gentle melodies and harmonic twists. Matsui’s fans admire his ability to make complex techniques sound beautifully effortless, making Friend an essential listen for those who appreciate the subtle power of fingerstyle.
3. Calum Graham - Phoenix Rising
Canadian fingerstyle prodigy Calum Graham shines with Phoenix Rising, a piece that captures rebirth and resilience. Known for his innovative techniques, Graham uses unique tunings and percussive elements to give the track an uplifting, dynamic sound. At just 18, he was ranked among Acoustic Guitar magazine’s «30 Great Guitarists Under 30», and Phoenix Rising is a testament to his skill and artistic maturity. The song feels like a journey, its soaring melodies lifting listeners up as Graham explores the guitar’s full range.
4. Mike Dawes - The Impossible
Mike Dawes is revered in the fingerstyle world for his jaw-dropping techniques and deep musicality, both of which are on display in The Impossible. This track balances complexity with melody, using alternate tunings, two-handed tapping, and even artificial harmonics to create an intricate soundscape. Dawes gained international attention for his arrangement of Somebody That I Used to Know, but The Impossible shows his original compositions are just as stunning. His live performances showcase his unmatched skill, leaving audiences and fellow musicians in awe.
5. Justin King - Phunkdified
American guitarist Justin King was a pioneer of modern fingerstyle, blending rock, jazz, and world music influences into his sound. Phunkdified is one of his best-known tracks, embodying King’s unique style and funky rhythm. This song showcases his pioneering approach to tapping and percussive guitar techniques, setting a high standard for future fingerstyle guitarists. A true classic, Phunkdified remains a must-hear track that helped shape modern fingerstyle guitar.
6. Trace Bundy - Dueling Ninjas
Dubbed «The Acoustic Ninja», Trace Bundy has an unparalleled command over fingerstyle techniques, and Dueling Ninjas is a masterclass in technical skill and playful creativity. The track features impressive tapping, harmony, and time signature changes, giving it an unpredictable, thrilling feel. Bundy’s signature style involves using both hands on the fretboard, creating layers of sound that feel like multiple instruments at once. Dueling Ninjas captures this versatility, making it one of his most popular songs and a showcase of his ingenuity.
7. Van Larkins - Wandering Hands
Australian guitarist Van Larkins delivers a melodic journey with Wandering Hands. Known for his smooth blend of fingerstyle and percussive techniques, Larkins creates soundscapes that feel both relaxed and adventurous. The song has a distinct flow, taking listeners through its melody with effortless transitions. Larkins credits much of his sound to the natural landscapes of Australia, and this connection to nature can be heard in the music’s organic, flowing quality. Wandering Hands is a soothing escape into the world of fingerstyle.
8. Tommy Emmanuel - The Mystery
Tommy Emmanuel is a fingerstyle legend known for his emotive playing and virtuosic talent. In The Mystery, Emmanuel combines his trademark warmth with intricate fingerpicking patterns. The song feels like a conversation—heartfelt, thoughtful, and nostalgic. Emmanuel’s «fingerstyle storytelling» is unparalleled. His ability to convey complex emotions through simple melodies has earned him global acclaim. This track is essential listening for anyone who appreciates music that resonates deeply and intimately.
9. Luca Stricagnoli - The Showman
Italian guitarist Luca Stricagnoli has made waves with his unconventional techniques, including using multiple guitars at once. In The Showman, Stricagnoli displays his unique style, effortlessly blending rock, classical, and folk influences. The song’s high-energy melody, combined with Stricagnoli’s dramatic playing style, makes for an engaging, memorable experience. Known for his innovative use of modified instruments. Stricagnoli brings something new to each performance, and The Showman showcases his fun, experimental approach.
10. Daniel Padim - The Greek Roman Ship
Brazilian guitarist Daniel Padim takes listeners on an evocative journey with The Greek Roman Ship. Inspired by classical and Latin influences, Padim’s playing is as expressive as it is technically proficient. The piece weaves together intricate melodies and dynamic shifts, mimicking the ebb and flow of a ship at sea. Padim’s music is heavily influenced by the natural beauty of his native Brazil, and The Greek Roman Ship feels like a story unfolding with every note.
Bonus: 100 Fingerstyle Gems
If these tracks have inspired you to hear more, I’ve curated a playlist titled Fingerstyle Guitar: 100 Incredible Tracks Worth Hearing, featuring artists from all around the globe and spanning a range of styles and moods. Dive into this playlist on Spotify or YouTube for an immersive journey through the world of fingerstyle guitar. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or new to the genre, this playlist has something to inspire and captivate every listener.
