10 Best Songs for Remote Band Practice Sessions
A curated list of songs that work great for online band rehearsals, with clear structures and parts that translate well to synchronized practice.
Not all songs are created equal when it comes to remote practice. Some work brilliantly for synchronized rehearsals, while others require the tight real-time coordination that only in-person playing provides. Here are 10 songs that are perfect for virtual band practice.
What Makes a Good Remote Practice Song?
Before the list, let's understand what we're looking for:
- Clear structure - Distinct sections that are easy to follow
- Consistent tempo - Minimal tempo changes or rubato
- Defined parts - Each instrument has a clear role
- Accessible difficulty - Challenging but not impossible
- Great tabs available - Well-documented online
The List
1. "Smoke on the Water" - Deep Purple
Why it works: The iconic riff is instantly recognizable, the structure is simple, and it's a great warm-up song. Perfect for getting everyone synced up at the start of practice.
2. "Back in Black" - AC/DC
Why it works: Rock-solid rhythm, clear chord progressions, and a tempo that's fast enough to be fun but not so fast it falls apart. The solo section is a great exercise for guitarists.
3. "Come As You Are" - Nirvana
Why it works: The main riff is hypnotic and repetitive, making it easy to stay synced. The dynamics between verse and chorus help practice transitions.
4. "Seven Nation Army" - The White Stripes
Why it works: Minimalist arrangement means every part matters. Great for practicing tight, locked-in playing.
5. "Californication" - Red Hot Chili Peppers
Why it works: Beautiful chord voicings, memorable bass line, and a moderate tempo. The structure is straightforward with plenty of repetition.
6. "Wish You Were Here" - Pink Floyd
Why it works: Acoustic-friendly, moderate tempo, and emotionally satisfying to play. The solo sections are melodic rather than shreddy.
7. "Zombie" - The Cranberries
Why it works: Powerful dynamics, clear verse-chorus structure, and a tempo that's easy to lock into. Great for practicing controlled aggression.
8. "Hotel California" - Eagles
Why it works: The extended outro solo is a guitarist's playground, and the chord progression is a masterclass in itself. Teaches patience and restraint.
9. "Sweet Child O' Mine" - Guns N' Roses
Why it works: That intro riff! Great for practicing precision. The song builds nicely, giving everyone moments to shine.
10. "Wonderwall" - Oasis
Why it works: Acoustic staple with a distinctive strumming pattern. Perfect for working on rhythm guitar fundamentals and dynamics.
How to Use This List
- Start with easier songs to warm up and sync
- Progress to more challenging material as the session goes on
- Mix familiar songs with new ones to stay engaged
- Loop specific sections that need work
- Record your takes for later review
Building Your Own Setlist
When choosing songs for remote practice, ask:
- Does everyone know this song?
- Can we find good tabs for all instruments?
- Is the tempo consistent throughout?
- Are there clear visual cues (like section changes) to help stay synced?
- Is it fun to play?
That last point matters more than you might think. Remote practice requires more focus than in-person jamming, so pick songs that keep everyone engaged.
Tab Sources
Looking for tabs? Check out:
- Ultimate Guitar (community tabs)
- Songsterr (interactive tabs)
- Official Guitar Pro tab books
Once you have your tabs, upload them to TabTogether and start practicing!
What Songs Work for Your Band?
Every band has their favorites for remote practice. Let us know what works for you - we might feature your suggestions in a future post.