65 Easy Kalimba Songs for Beginners (Best Kalimba Songs)

Looking for easy kalimba songs for beginners?

Kalimba is a beautiful and unique instrument that can be played by anyone, regardless of experience. If you are just starting out, it can be difficult to know where to begin.

That’s why we have compiled this list of 65 easy kalimba songs! These songs are simple enough for new players to learn but still enjoyable to listen to.

So grab your kalimba and get started!

List of the 50 Easy Kalimba Songs

1. Edelweiss (Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II)

Edelweiss is a beautiful song from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music. It’s perfect for beginners because it only uses three notes: C, D, and E. You can find sheet music for Edelweiss online or in most music stores.

To play Edelweiss on your kalimba, start by holding down the C, D, and E notes with your left hand. Then, use your right thumb to pluck the C note three times. Next, pluck the D note two times. Finally, pluck the E note once.

2. What Shall We Do With the Drunken Sailor (The Irish Rovers)

This classic sea shanty is perfect for beginners! The melody is easy to follow, and the lyrics are great for singing along. Just be sure to keep a steady beat on the kalimba so your fellow sailors can stay in time.

3. Animal Crossing New Horizons Theme (Animal Crossing)

One of the most iconic video game songs of recent memory, the Animal Crossing New Horizons Theme is surprisingly easy to play on kalimba. The main melody is carried by the right hand, with the left hand providing a simple accompaniment. This song is perfect for beginners who are still getting used to playing two notes at once.

4. Pop! Goes the Weasel (Laura Ingalls Wilder)

Pop! Goes the Weasel is another one of the great songs. This one is great for kids as it has a very catchy melody. The only thing to be careful of with this song is the tempo, as it can be easy to get carried away and play it too fast.

To play Pop! Goes the Weasel on the kalimba, start by placing your thumb on the lowest note (A). Then, place your index finger on the second note (B) and your middle finger on the third note (C). Your ring finger and pinky will be placed on the fourth note (D) and fifth note (E), respectively.

5. La Vie En Rose (Edit Piaf)

La Vie En Rose kalimba song is one of the best and most popular songs for beginners. It is originally a French song which was sung by Edith Piaf. The kalimba cover by Mimi is very beautiful and the melody is easy to follow.

This song only has a few notes so it is perfect for beginners who are still getting used to playing the kalimba.

6. Shape of You (Ed Sheeran) 

The shape of You is one of the amazing songs to play on Kalimba. This song is easy to follow as the melody is very catchy. The lyrics are also easy to remember. You can find the Kalimba tabs for this song online.

Shape of You by Ed Sheeran is a great choice. This song is perfect for beginners as it is easy to follow and the melody is very catchy. The lyrics are also easy to remember, making it a great choice for those just starting out. You can find the Kalimba tabs for this song online.

7. Dance Monkey (Tones and I) 

Dance Monkey is another one of the popular easy kalimba song. This catchy tune is sure to get you moving and grooving along. The kalimba melody for this song is pretty simple, making it a great choice for beginners.

8. True Colors (Phil Collins)

True colors is another one of the easy songs to play on kalimba that only has four notes. The notes are D, G, B, and high D. You can find the tablature for True Colors here.

This song is originally in the key of A but can be played in the key of D with the kalimba tuning shown above. If you would like to play this song in the key of A, you can use the following kalimba tuning: C, G, B, and high E.

9. Moon River (Henry Mancini) 

Moon River is one of the most popular songs of all time. The melody is very easy to play on the kalimba and it sounds great. You can find the sheet music for this song online.

10. It’s Over Isn’t It (Steven Universe)

This song is from the show Steven Universe and it’s a really sad and emotional tune. I think anyone can relate to the lyrics and the overall feeling of the song. It’s a great one to play on the kalimba if you’re looking for something a little more mellow.

11. A Whole New World (Aladdin)

If you’re looking for an easy kalimba song that everyone knows, look no further than “A Whole New World” from Disney’s Aladdin. This song is perfect for beginners because it only uses a few notes, and the melody is very easy to follow. Plus, who doesn’t love singing along to this classic Disney tune?

12. My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean (Tony Sheridan and The Beatles)

This song is often thought to be a traditional Scottish ballad, but it was actually written by English composer James Thornton in 1881. The song was popularized by American singer/songwriter Blind Blake in 1926, and later by English bandleader Bert Ambrose in 1933. The Beatles recorded their version of the song with Tony Sheridan in 1961.

13. Mary Had a Little Lamb (Sarah Josepha Hale)

Mary Had a Little Lamb is one of the most popular nursery rhymes of all time. It is also one of the easiest Kalimba songs. This song only uses the notes C, D, E, F, and G.

14. Jurassic Park Theme Song (Jurassic Park)

Jurassic Park Theme Song was composed by John Williams and it’s one of the most popular movie soundtracks. The original 1993 film was a game-changer for special effects and it’s still one of the best films in the franchise. If you want to play the Jurassic Park Theme Song on your kalimba, you can find the tabs here.

15. The Sound of Silence (Simon and Garfunkel) 

The Sound of Silence is a song by Simon and Garfunkel released in 1964. The song is about the power of silence and how it can be used to communicate. The song has been covered by many artists, including Paul Simon himself.

16. House of the Rising Sun (The Animals)

House of the Rising Sun is another one of the easy Kalimba songs. It is originally a folk song from the United States. The Animals made it famous in 1964 with their rock arrangement of the song. The Kalimba solo is easy to play with just a few simple notes. You can find the Kalimba tabs for House of the Rising Sun online.

17. Hallelujah (Leonard Cohen)

Hallelujah is one of the most beautiful and easy songs to play on kalimba. The melody is very simple and there are only a few chords. You can find the tabs for this song online.

18. Jolly Good Fellow (Marie Antoinette)

This song was originally written as a drinking song, but it’s been adapted for the kalimba in a more family-friendly way. The song is about a jolly good fellow who seems to get along with everyone.

19. London Bridge Is Falling Down (Traditional)

This simple nursery rhyme is perfect for beginners just starting out on the kalimba. The melody is easy to follow, and the lyrics are repetitive, making it easy to remember.

20. Numb (Linkin Park)

Numb is one of the most popular songs to play by the American rock band Linkin Park. It was released as the third single from their second studio album, Meteora. The song peaked at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

21. Kumbaya (Marvin VFrey)

Kumbaya is one of the well-known song in America, and it’s perfect for beginners to play on the kalimba. The melody is simple and easy to follow, and the lyrics are perfect for sing-alongs.

22. Auld Lang Syne (Robert Burns)

Auld Lang Syne is a Scottish poem written by Robert Burns in 1788. The original title of the poem was “To a Friend,” but it was later changed to “Auld Lang Syne.” The poem is about two friends who part ways and the memories they shared together.

23. I Want To Break Free (Queen)

The song is about wanting to break free from the constraints of a relationship. The song has a fast tempo and is perfect for beginners to practice their Kalimba skills.

24. I am Not The Only One (Sam Smith)

If you’re a fan of Sam Smith, you’ll love this easy kalimba song. “I’m Not the Only One” is a beautiful ballad that sounds great on the kalimba. The melody is simple and easy to play, making it perfect for beginners.

25. Take On Me (A-Ha)

Take On Me is a synth-pop song by Norwegian band A-Ha. It was released in 1984 and became a global hit, reaching number one in several countries. The song was written by lead singer Morten Harket, guitarist Pal Waaktaar, and producer Alan Tarney.

26. A Town With An Ocean View (Kiki’s Delivery Service)

This song is from the Studio Ghibli movie Kiki’s Delivery Service. The kalimba part in this song is actually not that difficult, but the rhythm can be a little tricky. If you can get the hang of it, this is a really fun song to play on the kalimba.

27. On Top of Old Smokey (Burl Ives)

This Kalimba Cover of On Top of Old Smokey is by YouTube user TheKalimbaGuy. This guy really knows how to make the kalimba sing!

28. Somewhere Over The Rainbow (Judy Garland)

The melody is simple and easy to follow, and the lyrics are universally known. You can find the sheet music for “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” online or in most kalimba songbooks.

29. Remember Me (Coco)

This beautiful ballad has a simple melody that’s perfect for the kalimba. While the original version is sung in Spanish, you can easily find an English version to play along with.

30. You Raise Me Up (Secret Garden)

You Raise Me Up is a song from the Irish duo Secret Garden. The song became popular after it was covered by Josh Groban in 2003. You Raise Me Up is a beautiful ballad that is perfect for beginners to play on the kalimba.

31. Sweet Child O’ Mine (Guns ‘n’ Roses)

Sweet Child O’ Mine was originally written on acoustic guitar by Slash. It’s a great song for beginners because it uses only a few basic chords.

32. Someone You Loved (Lewis Capaldi)

Someone You Loved is a song by Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi. The song was released as a single in November 2018 and reached number one in the UK and Ireland in 2019. The song is about Capaldi’s ex-girlfriend, who he dated for seven years.

33. I Wanna Grow Old With You (Westlife)

I Wanna Grow Old With You is a song by Westlife. It was released on November 12, 2001, as the sixth and final single from their third studio album, World of Our Own. The song peaked at number one in Ireland and the United Kingdom, becoming the group’s sixth Irish chart-topper and seventh UK number-one single. It was written by Westlife members Shane Filan and Kian Egan, with production being handled by Steve Mac.

34. Tale As Old As Time (Beauty And The Beast)

This particular song is from the Disney movie, Beauty and the Beast. The kalimba solo for this song is actually quite easy to play.

35. When The Saints Go Marchin’ In (Louis Armstrong)

This is a classic song that has been around for many, many years. It was originally written in 1896 and has been covered by many different artists over the years. The kalimba solo for this song is also quite easy to play.

36. The Scientist (Coldplay)

The Scientist is a song by the band Coldplay. It was released in 2002 and was a huge hit. The kalimba solo for this song is also quite easy to play.

37. One Summer’s Day (Spirited Away)

One Summer’s Day is a beautiful, slow song from the movie Spirited Away. The kalimba part is easy to learn, and the melody is very pretty.

38. Let it Be (The Beatles)

“Let it Be” is a classic song by The Beatles that can be easily played on the kalimba. The melody is simple and catchy, and the lyrics are uplifting and timeless. This is the popular easy Kalimba song to learn, as it will help them practice playing single notes on the kalimba.

39. Wake Me Up When September Ends (Green Day)

Wake Me Up When September Ends is originally played on an acoustic guitar. The melody of the song is very easy to play on the kalimba. You can find the notes for the melody of Wake Me Up When September Ends in the key of A minor here.

40. Hey Jude (The Beatles)

One of the most popular and well-known Kalimba songs worldwide, “Hey Jude” is a great choice for beginner kalimba players. The melody is simple and easy to follow, and the lyrics are universally recognizable. Whether you’re a Beatles fan or not, this is a great song to start your kalimba journey with.

41. With or Without You (U2)

This song is actually quite easy to play on the kalimba, once you get the hang of it. The melody is mostly in the low range, so it shouldn’t be too difficult to play.

42. My Heart Will Go On (Celine Dion)

This one might take a little bit of practice to get down, but it’s a gorgeous melody that is definitely worth the effort. Once you’ve got it, you’ll be able to impress your friends and family with this classic tune.

43. Zombie (The Cranberries)

This Irish rock band found success in the early 1990s with their debut album, Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We?. The album included the hit singles “Linger” and “Dreams”, both of which were easy to play on the kalimba.

44. Silent Night

One of the most popular Christmas carols of all time, “Silent Night” is a beautiful and easy song to play on the kalimba. The song is in the key of C major and uses only the notes C, D, F, and G.

45. Happy Birthday (Mildred and Patty Hill)

No matter what age you are, it’s always fun to sing “Happy Birthday.” This classic song is a great choice for beginners because it’s easy to learn and play on the kalimba.

46. Frère Jacques (Jean-Philippe Rameau)

This French folk song is one of the most popular songs in the world, and it’s also one of the easiest to play on the kalimba. The melody is just a series of simple scale degrees, which makes it perfect for beginners.

47. Heal the World (Michael Jackson)

This song was written by Michael Jackson and released in 1991. It’s a beautiful and easy ballad that can be played on the kalimba. The melody is mostly in the middle range, so it shouldn’t be too difficult to play. 

48. I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing (The New Seekers)

The song originally sung by The New Seekers. This song is about world peace and how we should all work together to make the world a better place.

49. You Are My Sunshine (Jimmie Davis and Charles Mitchell)

You Are My Sunshine is a classic song that many artists have covered over the years. It was originally sung by Jimmie Davis and Charles Mitchell. This song is about the happiness that someone brings into your life.

50. Jingle Bells (James Lord Pierpont)

Jingle Bells is a Christmas song that was originally written by James Lord Pierpont. It is about the joy of Christmas and spending time with family and friends. This is a great song to play on the Kalimba during the holidays.

51. Stairway To Heaven (Led Zeppelin)

Stairway to Heaven is a classic rock song by Led Zeppelin. It is about a person’s journey through life and how they are always searching for something more. This is a great song to play on the Kalimba if you are looking for something more challenging.

52. Fly Me To The Moon (Frank Sinatra)

Fly Me To The Moon is another popular standard that works great on the kalimba. The melody is simple and easy to play, and there are plenty of opportunities to add your own embellishments.

53. Rolling In The Deep (Adele)

Rolling In The Deep was originally written on the piano, but it sounds great on the kalimba too! The left hand stays in one place for most of the song, making it easy to learn. The right hand does most of the work, moving up and down the kalimba tines.

54. Careless Whisper (George Michael)

Careless Whisper is a song by English singer-songwriter George Michael. It was released on 24 July 1984, by Epic Records in the United Kingdom and America as the lead single from Michael’s debut solo album, Faith.

55. Wish You Were Here (Pink Floyd)

Wish You Were Her by Pink Floyd is a classic and one of the most popular songs. The melody is easy to play and sounds great on the kalimba.

56. Seven Nation Army (White Stripes)

Seven Nation Army was released by The White Stripes in 2003, and the simplicity of its opening riff makes it an excellent choice for beginner kalimba players.

57. Harry Potter (Theme)

Harry Potter is a theme song that every kalimba player should know. It’s easy to play and sounds great on the kalimba.

58. Bring Me To Life (Evanescence )

Bring Me To Life is a popular song by the American rock band Evanescence. It was released as the lead single from their 2003 debut album, Fallen. The song became a global hit, reaching the top five in more than fifteen countries.

59. How Deep Is Your Love (Bee Gees)

How Deep Is Your Love is a classic love song that is perfect for the kalimba. The melody is simple and beautiful, making it one of the best songs to play on the kalimba.

60. Carry On My Wayward Son (Kansas)

Carry On My Wayward Son was originally released by Kansas in 1976, and it remains one of their most popular songs. The song is about a prodigal son who has left home and is now returning. It’s a great song for beginners because it has a simple melody that is easy to follow.

61. Twinkle Twinkle Little Star (Nursery Rhyme)

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star is a perfect song for beginners. The notes follow a simple pattern and the melody is easy to remember.

62. Can’t help Falling in Love (Elvis Presley)

Can’t help Falling in Love is one of the most popular love songs of all time. The kalimba arrangement is by Matthew Davies, and it is in the key of C.

63. In the Jungle (Rudi Salmon)

In the Jungle is a great choice for beginners who want to ease into playing the kalimba. The song is relatively simple, with only a few notes to play. The melody is also easy to follow.

64. Take Me Home (John Denver)

Take Me Home, Country Roads is one of the most popular songs that John Denver ever wrote, and it is perfect for the kalimba.

65. We Wish You a Merry Christmas (Love to Sing)

We Wish You a Merry Christmas is one of the best kalimba Christmas songs for beginners. It was released by Love to Sing in 2016. The song is simple and easy to follow. You can find the lyrics and chords on their website.

Conclusion: Easy Kalimba Songs

We hope you enjoyed our list of easy kalimba songs. These songs are perfect for those just starting out, or for those who are looking for some easy kalimba songs to play.

If you have any suggestions for other easy kalimba songs, please leave us a comment in the comment section. 

Frequently Ask Questions

That’s all! Meanwhile, you can also check out 15 Best Bluegrass Dobro Players to Follow for Inspiration and 21 Best Banjo Players of All Time (Iconic Players).