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Learn how to quickly boost your guitar playing skills with these easy tips, tricks and helpful hints from successful guitarist, instructor, author and producer, Marlene Hutchinson. Known for her popular Learn to Play Guitar in a Day! program, as seen by millions on PBS, and featured on NPR and CBS, Marlene has a wonderfully simple way of helping you move through your challenges and advance your guitar playing skills.
Episodes

2 hours ago
10 4th of July Songs to Play on Your Guitar!
2 hours ago
2 hours ago
Tomorrow is the 4th of July—a celebration filled with patriotism, family, friends and fireworks. What better way to enjoy the festivities than by strumming some patriotic inspired tunes on your guitar?
In this episode, Marlene shares ten 4th of July-themed songs that are perfect to play at your backyard BBQ, beach gathering, or fireworks show. You'll be able to... Let freedom ring, with your guitar strings!
Links to previous 4th of July song episodes:
America the Beautiful
Star Spangled Banner (tablature)
Surfin' U.S.A.
4th of July song links on Thursday Tips Blog (pre podcast show):
God Bless America
Born in the U.S.A.
God Bless the U.S.A.
Star Spangled Banner (chords)
Start Your Free 7-day Yo-Guitar Video Library Trial!
Join our Guitar Tips Community!
Don't miss out, our next jam session is 7/16!
Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resources
Yo-Guitar Video Library
Learn to Play Guitar in a Day!
Coaching Sessions
Marlene's Tips For Guitar Playing Success book
Thursday Tips blog
Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) YouTube
Thank you to our sponsor!
GatorCo.com
Available on...
@YouTube @applepodcasts @applemusic @spotify
@spotifypodcasts
#4thofJuly #patrioticsongs #IndependenceDay #songsfor4thofJuly #guitar #learnguitar #playguitar #guitartips #guitarpodcast
Credits:
Creator, Host, Producer: Marlene Hutchinson
This podcast was made possible in part by:
Gator Cases
I Create Sound - For help getting your best sound go to www.icreatesound.com

Thursday Jun 26, 2025
How to Play Surfin' USA, in Honor of Surf Rock Legend Brian Wilson
Thursday Jun 26, 2025
Thursday Jun 26, 2025
Today we're celebrating the musical genius of the late Brian Wilson. A founding member of the 60s surf rock group, The Beach Boys, his groundbreaking lyrics and melodies have shaped generations and defined an era.
In this episode, Marlene dives into his musical legacy by looking at one of the band’s most iconic hits: Surfin’ USA. She'll talk about the inspiration behind the song, how the band brought it to life and her playing recommendations to help you bring a little surf sound into your own music!
BTW...this song could be a fun addition to your 4th of July repertoire!
Start Your Free 7-day Yo-Guitar Video Library Trial!
Join our Guitar Tips Community!
Don't miss out, our next jam session is 7/16!
Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resources
Yo-Guitar Video Library
Learn to Play Guitar in a Day!
Coaching Sessions
Marlene's Tips For Guitar Playing Success book
Thursday Tips blog
Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) YouTube
Thank you to our sponsor!
GatorCo.com
Available on...
@YouTube @applepodcasts @applemusic @spotify
@spotifypodcasts
#BrianWilson #TheBeachBoys #SurfinUSA #surfrock #surfmusic #guitar #learnguitar #playguitar #guitartips #guitarpodcast
Credits:
Creator, Host, Producer: Marlene Hutchinson
This podcast was made possible in part by:
Gator Cases
I Create Sound - For help getting your best sound go to www.icreatesound.com

Thursday Jun 19, 2025
10 Guitar Chords Every Beginner Should Know!
Thursday Jun 19, 2025
Thursday Jun 19, 2025
Starting your guitar journey can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Take it chord by chord—beginning with a few simple ones—and you'll be playing in no time.
In this episode, Marlene talks about the first 10 chords every beginner should learn. She explains why these chords are the perfect foundation, how they can open the door to countless songs. and she shares her tips for practicing them effectively.
Learn. Play & Master Chord Progressions episode link
Start Your Free 7-day YoGuitar Video Library Trial!
Join our Guitar Tips Community!
Don't miss out, our next jam session is 7/16!
Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resources
YoGuitar Video Library
Learn to Play Guitar in a Day!
Coaching Sessions
Marlene's Tips For Guitar Playing Success book
Thursday Tips blog
Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) YouTube
Thank you to our sponsor!
GatorCo.com
Available on...
@YouTube @applepodcasts @applemusic @spotify
@spotifypodcasts
#10chordsforbeginners #beginnerguitarchords #10starterguitarchords #guitar #learnguitar #playguitar #guitartips #guitarpodcast
Credits:
Creator, Host, Producer: Marlene Hutchinson
This podcast was made possible in part by:
Gator Cases
I Create Sound - For help getting your best sound go to www.icreatesound.com

Thursday Jun 12, 2025
New Yo-Guitar Videos to Boost Your Guitar Practice!
Thursday Jun 12, 2025
Thursday Jun 12, 2025
In this episode, Marlene introduces two brand-new Yo-Guitar videos designed to support your guitar playing journey. One video focuses on improving hand and finger dexterity, while the other helps release overall body tension and improves circulation.
Tune in as Marlene explains how these exercises can enhance your practice sessions and contribute to your growth as a guitarist.
Start Your Free 7-day YoGuitar Video Library Trial!
Join our Guitar Tips Community!
Don't miss out, our next jam session is 6/18!
Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resources
YoGuitar Video Library
Learn to Play Guitar in a Day!
Coaching Sessions
Marlene's Tips For Guitar Playing Success book
Thursday Tips blog
Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) YouTube
Thank you to our sponsor!
GatorCo.com
Available on...
@YouTube @applepodcasts @applemusic @spotify
@spotifypodcasts
#YoGuitar #YogaforGuitarists #SunSalutation #handsandfingers #guitar #learnguitar #playguitar #guitartips #guitarpodcast
Credits:
Creator, Host, Producer: Marlene Hutchinson
This podcast was made possible in part by:
Gator Cases
I Create Sound - For help getting your best sound go to www.icreatesound.com

Thursday Jun 05, 2025
5 Easy Summer Song You Should Play on Your Guitar!
Thursday Jun 05, 2025
Thursday Jun 05, 2025
Playing music that fits the season is fun, and there's a wealth of summer vibe songs that are not just fun, but also easy to play on guitar.
In this episode, Marlene shares five fun and simple-to-play summer themed songs—so grab your guitar and get into the laid-back summer spirit!
Watch a Marlene's medley of these songs on YouTube
Start Your Free 7-day YoGuitar Video Library Trial!
Join our Guitar Tips Community!
Don't miss out, our next jam session is 6/18!
Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resources
YoGuitar Video Library
Learn to Play Guitar in a Day!
Coaching Sessions
Marlene's Tips For Guitar Playing Success book
Thursday Tips blog
Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) YouTube
Thank you to our sponsor!
GatorCo.com
Available on...
@YouTube @applepodcasts @applemusic @spotify
@spotifypodcasts
#5easysongs #summersongs #5easysummersongsforguitar #guitar #learnguitar #playguitar #guitartips #guitarpodcast
Credits:
Creator, Host, Producer: Marlene Hutchinson
This podcast was made possible in part by:
Gator Cases
I Create Sound - For help getting your best sound go to www.icreatesound.com

Thursday May 29, 2025
Jam-tastic - Playing Guitar with other Guitarists!
Thursday May 29, 2025
Thursday May 29, 2025
There are many benefits to jamming with other guitar players - most importantly, it's just plain ole fun! And, if you're feeling intimidated, the best way to overcome those doubts is to just jam!
In this episode, Marlene inspires you to give it a try as she shares her very first jam experience - she'd only been playing for 6 months! Plus, you'll learn about previous jam episodes that can help you get started on your jamming adventure!
Links to the previous Jam episodes:
7 Benefits of Jamming with Guitar Players
Find a Jam Session Near You
How to Jam with Your Guitar Friends
Start Your Free 7-day YoGuitar Video Library Trial!
Join our Guitar Tips Community!
Don't miss out, our next jam session is 6/18!
Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resources
YoGuitar Video Library
Learn to Play Guitar in a Day!
Coaching Sessions
Marlene's Tips For Guitar Playing Success book
Thursday Tips blog
Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) YouTube
Thank you to our sponsor!
GatorCo.com
Available on...
@YouTube @applepodcasts @applemusic @spotify
@spotifypodcasts
#guitarjam #jamwithguitarists #guitarbuddyjam #howto #guitar #learnguitar #playguitar #guitartips #guitarpodcast
Credits:
Creator, Host, Producer: Marlene Hutchinson
This podcast was made possible in part by:
Gator Cases
I Create Sound - For help getting your best sound go to www.icreatesound.com

Thursday May 22, 2025
How to Travel With Your Guitar; Don't Leave Home Without It!
Thursday May 22, 2025
Thursday May 22, 2025
Planning a trip? Take your guitar along for the ride—it's fun to play wherever your travels take you!
In this episode, Marlene talks about her own guitar travel experiences, along with her tips and tricks so your beloved instrument arrives in tip top shape and ready to be played!
Road Trip Guitar Advice episode
Airplane Travel with Your Guitar episode
How to Play 3 Cool Vacation Themed Songs episode
Start Your Free 7-day YoGuitar Video Library Trial!
Join our Guitar Tips Community!
Our next community jam session is 6/18, don't miss out!
Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resources
YoGuitar Video Library
Learn to Play Guitar in a Day!
Coaching Sessions
Marlene's Tips For Guitar Playing Success book
Thursday Tips blog
Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) YouTube
Thank you to our sponsor!
GatorCo.com
Available on...
@YouTube @applepodcasts @applemusic @spotify
@spotifypodcasts
#guitartravel #guitarairplane #guitarcartravel #vacationwithguitar #guitar #learnguitar #playguitar #guitartips #guitarpodcast
Credits:
Creator, Host, Producer: Marlene Hutchinson
This podcast was made possible in part by:
Gator Cases
I Create Sound - For help getting your best sound go to www.icreatesound.com

Thursday May 15, 2025
Unlock Your Guitar Playing Energy! New Yo-Guitar Video!
Thursday May 15, 2025
Thursday May 15, 2025
Playing guitar is more fun - and definitely easier - when your mind and body are relaxed and flexible. The Yo-Guitar videos help you with that, and the newest one gets your blood pumping too!
In this episode, Marlene describes the latest Yo-Guitar video, Sun Salutations 2. She talks about the 12 asanas (poses), which include Child's Pose, and shares their Sanskrit names too!
Start Your Free 7-day YoGuitar Video Library Trial!
Join our Guitar Tips Community!
Our next community jam session is 6/18, don't miss out!
Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resources
YoGuitar Video Library
Learn to Play Guitar in a Day!
Coaching Sessions
Marlene's Tips For Guitar Playing Success book
Thursday Tips blog
Thank you to our sponsor!
GatorCo.com
Available on...
@YouTube @applepodcasts @applemusic @spotify
@spotifypodcasts
#YoGuitar #yoga #yogaforguitarists #SunSalutations #Childspose #asanas #guitar #learnguitar #playguitar #guitartips #guitarpodcast
Credits:
Creator, Host, Producer: Marlene Hutchinson
This podcast was made possible in part by:
Gator Cases
I Create Sound - For help getting your best sound go to www.icreatesound.com

Thursday May 08, 2025
Play Mom a Song on Mother's Day!
Thursday May 08, 2025
Thursday May 08, 2025
One of the best gifts you can give your mom is the gift of your guitar music — a gift from your heart and your strings!
In this episode, Marlene describes how to play the heartfelt ballad Mother Like Mine by The Band Perry - have a box of Kleenex handy for your performance!
Plus, here's a few more Mother's Day themed song inspirations:
The Best Day, Mom and Mother
Mother, Thank You Mom and Wind Beneath My Wings
Start Your Free 7-day YoGuitar Video Library Trial!
Join our Guitar Tips Community!
Our next community jam session is 5/21, don't miss out!
Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resources
YoGuitar Video Library
Learn to Play Guitar in a Day!
Coaching Sessions
Marlene's Tips For Guitar Playing Success book
Thursday Tips blog
Thank you to our sponsor!
GatorCo.com
Available on...
@YouTube @applepodcasts @applemusic @spotify
@spotifypodcasts
#MothersDay #mom #songsformom #MotherLikeMine #guitar #learnguitar #playguitar #guitartips #guitarpodcast
Credits:
Creator, Host, Producer: Marlene Hutchinson
This podcast was made possible in part by:
Gator Cases
I Create Sound - For help getting your best sound go to www.icreatesound.com

Thursday May 01, 2025
May Newsletter! Upcoming Episodes, Top Acoustic Guitar Brands and More!
Thursday May 01, 2025
Thursday May 01, 2025
Get all the latest Tips For Guitar Playing Success news and insights including upcoming episodes and other guitar happenings!
In this newsletter, Marlene talks about what you can expect to learn in the upcoming May episodes, plus the Best Acoustic Guitar Brands in 2025, and so much more!
Cinco de Mayo song episode links:
How to play Tequila
How to play Viva Mexico & La Piel
How to play Cielito Lindo & La Bamba
Start Your Free 7-day YoGuitar Video Library Trial!
Join our Guitar Tips Community!
Our next community jam session is 5/21, don't miss out!
Marlene's Guitar Courses & Learning Resources
YoGuitar Video Library
Learn to Play Guitar in a Day!
Coaching Sessions
Marlene's Tips For Guitar Playing Success book
Thursday Tips blog
Thank you to our sponsor!
GatorCo.com
Available on...
@applepodcasts @applemusic @spotify @spotifypodcasts
#May #newsletter #CincodeMayosongs #MothersDaysongs #guitartravel #YoGuitar #bestacousticguitarbrands #guitar #learnguitar #playguitar #guitartips #guitarpodcast
Credits:
Creator, Host, Producer: Marlene Hutchinson
This podcast was made possible in part by:
Gator Cases
I Create Sound - For help getting your best sound go to www.icreatesound.com