Learn to Play Bill Withers Songs on Acoustic Guitar

In this lesson collection, you’ll learn how to play 5 of his most memorable songs on acoustic guitar — all designed for intermediate players.

From the soulful groove of Use Me to the tenderness of Lean On Me, these lessons include rhythm tips, chord breakdowns, and performance-style demos to help you get them sounding great. Scroll down to jump into any song.

Ain't No Sunshine was a single by Bill Withers back in 1971 and hails from his album Just As I Am. Donald Duck Dunn from The Blues Brothers played bass and Stephen Stills played guitar. 

The song is one of Bill Withers' most well-known songs. The song features Withers' soulful vocals and a simple, yet memorable, arrangement. It became a major hit, reaching number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The song is characterized by its repetitive chorus, where Withers laments the absence of his loved one with the iconic line, "I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know."

Just The Two Of Us hit the airwaves in 1981 and became a #2 hit in the US and was recorded with saxophonist Grover Washington Jr. It was released as a single from Washington's album "Winelight."

The song became a major hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. "Just the Two of Us" is a romantic ballad that celebrates love and togetherness. Withers' smooth vocals, combined with Washington's soulful saxophone playing, create a captivating and melodic duet. The song's popularity has endured over the years, and it remains a beloved classic.

The track can be found on the album Bill Wither's Greatest Hits.

Lean On Me is another classic by Bill Withers. It was released as a single from his second studio album, "Still Bill." The song became Withers' first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remains one of his most beloved and enduring compositions.

"Lean on Me" is an uplifting anthem that emphasizes the importance of support and friendship. Its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody have made it a popular choice for various occasions, including graduations and community events.

Lovely Day  is a feel-good song by Bill Withers, released as a single from his album "Menagerie." It showcases Withers' smooth vocals and positive energy. The song is known for its distinctive opening keyboard riff and the extended note Withers holds during the chorus.

Despite its initial chart performance being modest, "Lovely Day" has since become one of Withers' most celebrated songs and a staple of his discography. Its optimistic and joyful lyrics make it a popular choice for celebrations and uplifting playlists.

The song managed to hit #6 in the US and #7 in the UK.

Use Me is another popular song by Bill Withers. It was released as a single in 1972 from his album "Still Bill." The song achieved significant success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of Withers' signature hits.

"Use Me" is a funky and groovy track that blends elements of soul, R&B, and rock. It features Withers' soulful vocals and a catchy guitar riff. The song's lyrics explore themes of manipulation and exploitation in relationships.

Withers sings from the perspective of someone who is aware that they are being used by their partner but is willing to tolerate it because they are infatuated or addicted to the relationship. The lyrics convey a complex mix of vulnerability, frustration, and desire.