The 25 Essential Jam Songs To Know on Banjo

We asked our Banjo Mountain community what songs come up the most in jam sessions. In addition, we also asked our teacher for his top 10 picks, which are included in this list.

While every jam is different, certain tunes tend to be played over and over again, making them essential for any banjo player looking to join in the fun.

We’ve put together this list of 25 must-know songs for banjo jams. Do you agree with our picks? Would you remove any? What songs do you think we’ve missed? Let us know!

As a sidenote: for those of you who want to learn how to jam, check out our blog article Unlock the Banjo in Three Easy Chord Shapes.

1. Banks of the Ohio

A classic murder ballad that has been recorded by countless artists. Its slow, waltz-like feel makes it a jam session favorite.

2. Big Ball in Boston

A fun, high-energy song that’s great for getting people engaged in a jam setting.

3. Big Spike Hammer

A fast-paced bluegrass song with driving rhythm and powerful lyrics about hard labor on the railroad.

4. Bill Cheatham

An instrumental jam standard, perfect for testing your picking speed and accuracy.

5. Blue Moon Of Kentucky

This Bill Monroe classic transitions between waltz and bluegrass time, making it an exciting challenge for jammers.

6. Blue Ridge Cabin Home

A heartfelt song about longing for home, with simple yet beautiful chord progressions.

7. Boil Them Cabbage Down

Often one of the first songs banjo players learn, it’s an easy tune that’s fun to play at any level.

8. Bury Me Beneath The Willows

A sorrowful but beautiful tune, perfect for slow jam sessions and harmonizing.

9. Don’t Let Your Deal Go Down

A fast-paced traditional song that has been recorded by countless bluegrass greats.

10. Foggy Mountain Breakdown

The iconic instrumental that put bluegrass banjo on the map. A must-know tune for serious pickers.

11. Little Maggie

A hard-driving, modal song with haunting lyrics that’s popular in bluegrass jams.

12. Long Journey Home

An upbeat, feel-good song that’s easy to sing along with.

13. Mountain Dew

A fun novelty song about homemade liquor that always gets people laughing.

14. New River Train

A simple but catchy song that’s great for beginner and intermediate players alike.

15. Nine Pound Hammer

A classic work song with a driving rhythm, popularized by Merle Travis and bluegrass bands.

16. Old Home Place

A sentimental song about returning to your roots, featuring strong harmonies and a great banjo break.

17. Old Joe Clark

A fiddle tune that has become a standard for all bluegrass instruments, making it a must-learn for jammers.

18. Rocky Top

One of the most recognizable bluegrass songs, known for its fast tempo and high-energy chorus.

19. Rollin’ In My Sweet Baby’s Arms

A great beginner-friendly tune with a fun, rolling melody.

20. Salt Creek

A popular instrumental tune that every jam session player should have in their arsenal.

21. Salty Dog

22. Way Downtown

A laid-back song with easy chord changes and a catchy melody.

23. Whiskey Before Breakfast

A fantastic fiddle tune that’s a favorite among intermediate and advanced pickers.

24. Will The Circle Be Unbroken

One of the most universally recognized bluegrass and gospel songs, often played to close out a jam session.

25. Blackberry Blossom

A beloved instrumental tune that challenges pickers with its rapid melody and intricate finger work.

These songs have been jam favorites for years, and knowing them will help you feel confident when joining a session. Of course, every jam is different, and you might encounter regional or stylistic variations. But if you start with these, you’ll be well on your way to fitting right in!

Are there any songs you think should be on this list? Email [email protected] for others to add to the list!