Guitar Hero II
Guitar Hero II

Song List by Tier

View the complete Guitar Hero II song list organized by tier for Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, and Arcade versions. Find your favorite tracks and plan your setlists.

·Multi-source verified (107/109)

Guitar Hero II: Definitive Song List by Tier (Xbox 360, PlayStation 2 & Arcade)

Welcome, shredders, to the definitive breakdown of the Guitar Hero II song list, organized by their respective tiers. This comprehensive guide covers the Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, and Arcade versions of the game. While the core song list and tiering are largely consistent across platforms, any notable platform-specific differences will be explicitly highlighted. Understanding these tiers is crucial for career progression, maximizing your star power, and ultimately, dominating the leaderboard. Each tier represents a significant step up in difficulty and complexity, introducing new techniques and demanding greater precision. This guide will walk you through every song, offering actionable strategies to conquer them, regardless of your chosen difficulty.

Important Note on Platform Differences: The vast majority of songs and their tier placements are identical between the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 2 versions. The Arcade version, while sharing many songs, has a slightly condensed and sometimes re-ordered tier structure to accommodate its shorter play sessions. Where a song is exclusive to a console version or its tier placement differs significantly in Arcade, it will be clearly marked. For the most part, strategies provided here are universally applicable.

Tier 1: Opening Licks

These are your introductory tracks, designed to ease you into the Guitar Hero II experience. Focus on hitting every note and maintaining your multiplier. Don't be afraid to use Star Power strategically, especially during sustained note sections to rack up points. These songs are generally slower and feature simpler note patterns, making them ideal for beginners to grasp the core mechanics. Mastery of basic strumming and fret-button presses is the goal here.

  • "Shout at the Devil" by Mötley Crüe
    • Strategy: This song is relatively straightforward. Pay close attention to the alternating strumming patterns in the verses, which are a good warm-up for faster sections later. The chorus features some quick, repeating green notes – practice hitting these consistently without overstrumming. The bridge introduces a brief, sustained yellow note section.
    • Star Power Activation: Look for the long sustained notes in the pre-chorus and bridge. Activating Star Power here will maximize your score by covering significant note phrases. There's also a good opportunity during the main riff's repetition in the outro.
    • Common Pitfall: Getting complacent during the slower parts and missing easy notes. Stay focused! Ensure you're not overstrumming on the repeating green notes.
    • Arcade Note: Typically appears early in the Arcade progression, often as one of the first few songs.
  • "Mother" by Danzig
    • Strategy: A slower, heavier track. The key here is rhythm and maintaining a steady strum. The main riff is repetitive but can be tricky if you lose the beat due to its slightly off-kilter timing. Focus on precise, deliberate strumming. The solo, while not overly complex, introduces some basic hammer-ons/pull-offs.
    • Star Power Activation: The guitar solo section, though not overly complex, is an excellent place to unleash your Star Power for a significant score boost due to its sustained notes and consistent rhythm. The heavy, sustained chords in the chorus also offer good Star Power opportunities.
    • Common Pitfall: Struggling with the slower, heavier strumming. Ensure your strumming hand is relaxed and consistent. Don't rush the slower sections.
    • Arcade Note: Present in the Arcade version, usually in the early tiers.
  • "Surrender" by Cheap Trick
    • Strategy: This classic rock anthem features a driving, upbeat tempo. Pay attention to the quick chord changes in the verses and the more open, strum-heavy chorus. There are some early hammer-ons/pull-offs to practice, particularly during the guitar fills between vocal lines. The solo is melodic and introduces some basic note-stringing.
    • Star Power Activation: The instrumental break before the final chorus and the outro are prime opportunities to activate Star Power and maintain a high multiplier through dense note sections. The main chorus also provides consistent Star Power gain.
    • Common Pitfall: Missing the quick transitions between chords in the verse. Practice these sections slowly. Ensure your hammer-ons/pull-offs are clean.
    • Arcade Note: A staple in the Arcade version's early tiers.
  • "Who Was In My Room Last Night?" by Butthole Surfers
    • Strategy: This song introduces more aggressive, punk-rock strumming. Focus on maintaining a consistent down-strumming rhythm. There are some quick, repetitive note patterns that require good timing, especially in the main riff. The solo is short and punchy, focusing on quick, repeated notes.
    • Star Power Activation: The instrumental sections, particularly the main riff's repetition, are good spots to activate Star Power for score accumulation. The short solo also offers a burst of Star Power.
    • Common Pitfall: Overstrumming during the fast, repetitive sections. Try to use hammer-ons where possible to conserve energy, especially on consecutive notes of the same color.
    • Arcade Note: Included in the Arcade version, typically in the first or second tier.

Tier 2: Amp Warmers

The difficulty ramps up slightly here, introducing more complex riffs and faster note streams. You'll need to start mastering hammer-ons and pull-offs more consistently, as they become crucial for maintaining your multiplier and hitting all notes. Precision and timing are key. Expect more varied strumming patterns and slightly longer, more intricate solos.

  • "Search and Destroy" by Iggy Pop and The Stooges
    • Strategy: A high-energy punk rock track. The verses have some quick, alternating notes that require good finger dexterity. The chorus is more open, allowing for easier strumming, but don't lose the beat. The solo is raw and energetic, with some quick, repeated notes and short phrases.
    • Star Power Activation: The instrumental breaks and the repeating main riff sections are excellent places to activate Star Power for a sustained score boost. The solo, despite its brevity, is also a good spot.
    • Common Pitfall: Losing rhythm during the faster verse sections. Try to anticipate the note changes. Maintain a consistent, aggressive strum.
    • Arcade Note: Often found in the second tier of the Arcade version.
  • "Last Child" by Aerosmith
    • Strategy: This classic rock track features a groovy, bluesy riff. Pay attention to the sustained notes and the quick, rhythmic strumming patterns. The solo introduces some faster hammer-ons and pull-offs, requiring more fluid finger movement. The bridge section has a distinct rhythm that requires careful listening.
    • Star Power Activation: The main riff, especially during the instrumental sections, and the guitar solo are ideal for Star Power activation to maximize your score. The sustained chords in the chorus also contribute well.
    • Common Pitfall: Missing the sustained notes or releasing them too early. Hold them for their full duration. The bluesy feel can sometimes throw off precise timing if you're not listening carefully.
    • Arcade Note: Present in the Arcade version, usually in the second or third tier.
  • "War Pigs" by Black Sabbath
    • Strategy: A longer, more epic track with a distinct shift in tempo. The intro is slow and heavy, but the song builds in intensity. Watch out for the faster sections and the sustained chords. The key is adapting to the tempo changes, particularly the transition to the faster, more aggressive middle section. The solo is long and varied, testing endurance.
    • Star Power Activation: The instrumental breaks, particularly the mid-song tempo increase, and the final, faster section are perfect for deploying Star Power. The long, sustained chords in the intro also provide good Star Power build-up.
    • Common Pitfall: Getting thrown off by the tempo changes. Practice the transition points carefully. The length of the song can also lead to fatigue, so maintain focus.
    • Arcade Note: Due to its length, "War Pigs" is sometimes omitted or placed in a higher, more challenging tier in the Arcade version.
  • "You Really Got Me" by Van Halen (Cover)
    • Strategy: This song features a lot of quick, rhythmic strumming and some early examples of Eddie Van Halen's iconic tapping (represented as fast hammer-ons/pull-offs). Maintaining a steady beat is crucial. The solo is a flurry of quick notes and introduces more complex hammer-on/pull-off patterns.
    • Star Power Activation: The guitar solo and the fast, repetitive main riff sections are excellent for Star Power activation. The bridge also offers consistent Star Power gain.
    • Common Pitfall: Struggling with the rapid hammer-on/pull-off sections. Practice these without strumming to get the finger memory down. Overstrumming on the fast, repeated notes will quickly drain your energy.
    • Arcade Note: A common inclusion in the second or third tier of the Arcade game.

Tier 3: String Snappers

Prepare for intricate solos, rapid-fire strumming, and challenging chord progressions. Precision and speed are paramount in this tier. You'll encounter longer note streams and more complex rhythmic patterns. Mastery of hammer-ons and pull-offs is no longer optional, but essential. Expect more sustained chord sections and faster transitions.

  • "Sweet Child o' Mine" by Guns N' Roses (Cover)
    • Strategy: That iconic intro riff requires careful finger placement and quick transitions between notes. The verses have some tricky arpeggiated patterns. The solo is a true test of skill, demanding fast fingerwork and accurate strumming. Break down the solo into smaller segments. Focus on smooth transitions between the green, red, and yellow notes in the intro.
    • Star Power Activation: The main solo is the absolute best place to use Star Power for maximum impact. Practice hitting those notes cleanly under pressure. The extended outro solo also offers a significant Star Power opportunity.
    • Common Pitfall: The intro riff can be deceptively hard to perfect. Focus on smooth transitions between the notes. The solo's length and speed can be very challenging; don't be afraid to slow it down in practice mode.
    • Arcade Note: A popular choice, typically found in the mid-to-upper tiers of the Arcade version.
  • "Message in a Bottle" by The Police (Cover)
    • Strategy: This song features a lot of quick, rhythmic strumming and some challenging chord changes that require fast fret-hand movement. Maintaining a steady, consistent strumming rhythm is crucial to hitting all the notes. The solo is short but features quick, alternating notes. The verses have a distinctive syncopated rhythm.
    • Star Power Activation: The instrumental bridge and the outro, with their repeating patterns and higher note density, are good spots to activate Star Power for a sustained score boost. The main riff also provides consistent Star Power.
    • Common Pitfall: Losing the rhythm during the faster, repetitive strumming sections. Try to keep a consistent down-up strumming motion. The quick chord changes can also be a challenge for finger dexterity.
    • Arcade Note: Often appears in the middle tiers of the Arcade tracklist.
  • "Carry On Wayward Son" by Kansas (Cover)
    • Strategy: A progressive rock masterpiece with varied sections. Expect fast arpeggios, sustained notes, and a demanding guitar solo that will test your endurance. This song requires adaptability to different musical phrases, including a distinct keyboard solo section translated to guitar. The main riff is intricate and requires precise timing.
    • Star Power Activation: The extended instrumental sections, particularly the guitar and keyboard solos, are your best bet for high-scoring Star Power deployment. Time your activation to cover the most notes. The long, sustained chords in the intro and outro also build Star Power effectively.
    • Common Pitfall: The length and varied nature of the song can lead to fatigue. Take short breaks if needed, and practice the most challenging sections in isolation. The arpeggios require careful finger placement.
    • Arcade Note: Due to its length and complexity, this song might be in higher tiers or less common in the Arcade version.
  • "Crazy on You" by Heart (Cover)
    • Strategy: Known for its intricate acoustic intro (translated to guitar notes) and powerful rock sections. The intro requires precise finger placement and timing for the arpeggios. The main body of the song features fast strumming and quick chord changes. The solo is fast and melodic, with a mix of hammer-ons, pull-offs, and quick strumming.
    • Star Power Activation: The acoustic intro, if played perfectly, can generate a good amount of Star Power. The main guitar solo is another prime location for activation. The fast, repeating chords in the chorus also offer opportunities.
    • Common Pitfall: The acoustic intro can be a run-killer. Practice it until it's second nature before attempting the full song. The transition from acoustic to electric sections also requires a quick mental and physical shift.
    • Arcade Note: A challenging song, typically found in the upper-middle tiers of the Arcade game.

Tier 4: Face Melters

This is where the ultimate challenge begins. These songs demand near-perfect execution, advanced techniques, and unwavering focus. Only the most dedicated Guitar Heroes will conquer these tracks. Expect relentless speed, complex syncopation, and solos that push the boundaries of finger dexterity. Stamina and precision are paramount.

  • "Hangar 18" by Megadeth (Cover)
    • Strategy: Brace yourself for blistering speed, complex solos, and rapid-fire alternate picking. This song is a marathon of technical prowess. Break down the numerous solo sections into smaller, manageable chunks and practice them repeatedly. Focus on maintaining your strumming hand stamina. The main riff itself is fast and requires consistent strumming.
    • Star Power Activation: There are multiple guitar solos throughout the song. Prioritize activating Star Power during the longest and most note-dense solo sections to maximize your score. Timing is crucial to cover as many notes as possible, especially during the dual-guitar solo sections.
    • Common Pitfall: Fatigue during the long, fast sections. Ensure your strumming hand is relaxed. Missing a single note can break your multiplier, so focus on accuracy over speed initially. The sheer volume of notes can be overwhelming.
    • Arcade Note: A high-tier song in the Arcade version, often appearing as a penultimate challenge.
  • "YYZ" by Rush (Cover)
    • Strategy: An instrumental epic that will push your finger dexterity and rhythm to their limits. This song features complex time signatures, intricate bass lines translated to guitar, and a demanding solo. Focus on listening to the drum and bass patterns to maintain your rhythm. The intro's unique rhythm requires precise timing.
    • Star Power Activation: The main instrumental sections, particularly the extended solo and the complex middle section, are prime targets for Star Power. The repeating, fast note patterns also build Star Power quickly.
    • Common Pitfall: The odd time signatures can be very disorienting. Practice this song slowly with the metronome to internalize the rhythm. The sustained notes within fast sections can also be tricky to hold correctly.
    • Arcade Note: A very challenging song, typically reserved for the highest tiers in the Arcade version.
  • "The Trooper" by Iron Maiden (Cover)
    • Strategy: This iconic track is a test of sustained speed and precise alternate picking. The main riff is relentless, requiring consistent strumming and quick finger changes. The solo is long and features many fast, repeating note patterns and arpeggios. Stamina is key for this song.
    • Star Power Activation: The extended guitar solo is the absolute best place to activate Star Power for maximum score. The main riff, due to its high note density, also provides excellent Star Power opportunities.
    • Common Pitfall: Losing rhythm or getting fatigued during the main riff. Practice maintaining a consistent strumming hand motion. The solo's speed can be daunting; break it into smaller phrases.
    • Arcade Note: A very popular and challenging song, almost always in the highest tiers of the Arcade version.
  • "Free Bird" by Lynyrd Skynyrd (Cover)
    • Strategy: This song is a marathon, particularly its legendary outro solo. The first half is slower, focusing on sustained chords and melodic lines. The second half transforms into a relentless barrage of fast notes, hammer-ons, pull-offs, and sweep picking. Conserve energy in the first half for the epic conclusion.
    • Star Power Activation: The entire outro solo is a Star Power goldmine. Strategically activate it during the densest sections of the solo to maximize your score. You'll likely get multiple activations if you play well.
    • Common Pitfall: The sheer length and intensity of the outro solo. Practice the solo in segments, gradually increasing speed. Don't let fatigue cause you to drop your multiplier in the earlier, easier sections.
    • Arcade Note: Often the final or penultimate song in the Arcade version, serving as the ultimate test.

Tier 5: Master Shredders

These are the pinnacle challenges of Guitar Hero II. Reserved for only the most dedicated and skilled players, these songs demand flawless execution, incredible speed, and unwavering concentration. Expect complex solos, intricate note patterns, and extreme stamina requirements. Achieving 5 Stars on these tracks is a badge of honor.

  • "Through the Fire and Flames" by DragonForce (Xbox 360 Exclusive Bonus Track)
    • Strategy: This is arguably the hardest song in the entire Guitar Hero franchise. It is a relentless onslaught of fast strumming, incredibly dense note charts, and a solo that pushes the limits of human dexterity. Focus on maintaining a consistent strumming rhythm, even when your fingers are flying across the fret buttons. Break down the solo into micro-sections and practice them at reduced speeds until muscle memory takes over. Utilize hammer-ons and pull-offs extensively.
    • Star Power Activation: Star Power is crucial for survival and score. Activate it during the longest, most difficult, and most note-dense sections of the solos and fast strumming passages. There are multiple opportunities, but timing is key to maximize coverage.
    • Common Pitfall: Everything. Fatigue, losing rhythm, missing a single note and breaking your multiplier, getting overwhelmed by the sheer number of notes. This song requires extreme dedication and practice. Don't be discouraged by initial failures.
    • Arcade Note: Not available in the Arcade or PlayStation 2 versions. This is an Xbox 360 exclusive challenge.
  • "Jordan" by Buckethead (Xbox 360 Exclusive Bonus Track)
    • Strategy: Another legendary challenge, "Jordan" is known for its incredibly fast, technical solo sections, featuring complex tapping, sweep picking, and rapid alternate picking. The non-solo sections are also challenging with intricate rhythms and quick chord changes. Focus on precision over speed initially. The tapping sections require specific finger dexterity.
    • Star Power Activation: The extended, technical solos are the primary targets for Star Power. Activate it to maintain your multiplier through the most challenging passages. There are also opportunities during the fast, rhythmic sections.
    • Common Pitfall: The tapping sections are a major hurdle for many players. Practice the specific finger movements required. Maintaining accuracy through the rapid-fire notes in the solo is also incredibly difficult.
    • Arcade Note: Not available in the Arcade or PlayStation 2 versions. This is an Xbox 360 exclusive challenge.
  • "Raining Blood" by Slayer (Cover)
    • Strategy: A brutal thrash metal anthem that demands consistent, fast strumming and quick, aggressive fret-hand movements. The main riff is a test of endurance, and the solo sections are chaotic and fast, requiring quick reflexes. Focus on maintaining a tight, down-strumming rhythm throughout.
    • Star Power Activation: The main riff, due to its high note density, provides excellent Star Power build-up. Activate Star Power during the solo sections and the fast, repeating power chord sections to maximize your score and maintain your multiplier.
    • Common Pitfall: Fatigue from constant fast strumming. Overstrumming can lead to missed notes. The chaotic nature of the solos can be difficult to read and execute accurately.
    • Arcade Note: A very high-tier song in the Arcade version, representing one of the ultimate challenges.
  • "Misirlou" by Dick Dale (Cover)
    • Strategy: This iconic surf rock track is deceptively difficult due to its incredibly fast, tremolo-picked main riff. It requires sustained, rapid alternate strumming and precise fret-hand movement. The solo is also very fast and requires quick transitions between notes. Stamina in both hands is crucial.
    • Star Power Activation: The entire main riff and the solo sections are prime for Star Power activation. The consistent, fast notes will generate Star Power quickly, so deploy it strategically to maintain your multiplier through the most intense parts.
    • Common Pitfall: Tremolo strumming fatigue. Your strumming arm will get a workout. Practice maintaining a relaxed grip and consistent, fast strumming motion. Missing a single note in the main riff can be devastating to your multiplier.
    • Arcade Note: Often a final boss song in the Arcade version, a true test of speed and endurance.

Tier 6: Bonus Tracks (Console Versions Only)

These tracks are unlocked by completing various challenges or reaching certain milestones in the game. They often feature a mix of difficulties, from fun, experimental tracks to some of the most challenging in the game. Note that the Arcade version typically does not feature a dedicated "Bonus Tracks" tier, as its structure is more linear.

  • "Gemini" by Brian Kahanek
    • Strategy: A melodic instrumental with a good mix of sustained notes and faster runs. Focus on the transitions between different sections and maintaining a clean sound. The solo is technical but approachable.
    • Star Power Activation: The longer, more melodic phrases and the solo sections are good for Star Power.
    • Common Pitfall: Losing the flow during the transitions between melodic and faster sections.
  • "Less Talk More Rokk" by Freezepop
    • Strategy: A fun, upbeat electronic rock track with a distinct synth-pop feel. Features repetitive, catchy riffs and a relatively straightforward structure. Good for practicing consistent strumming and timing.
    • Star Power Activation: The repeating chorus sections and instrumental breaks are ideal for Star Power.
    • Common Pitfall: Getting bored by the repetition and losing focus.
  • "Mr. Fix It" by The Amazing Royal Crowns
    • Strategy: A rockabilly/punk track with a driving rhythm. Expect fast, rhythmic strumming and some quick chord changes. The solo is short and punchy.
    • Star Power Activation: The main riff and the solo provide good opportunities.
    • Common Pitfall: Keeping up with the fast, consistent rhythm without overstrumming.
  • "The Way It Is" by Steve Ouimette
    • Strategy: A cover of a classic song, featuring a prominent piano melody translated to guitar. This track emphasizes sustained notes and melodic phrasing. The solo is expressive and requires good timing.
    • Star Power Activation: The long, sustained melodic lines and the solo are perfect for Star Power.
    • Common Pitfall: Holding sustained notes for their full duration and not releasing too early.
  • "Fall of Pangea" by That Handsome Devil
    • Strategy: A quirky, alternative rock track with varied sections. Features some syncopated rhythms and a unique feel. The solo is unconventional but requires precision.
    • Star Power Activation: The more energetic, instrumental sections and the solo offer good Star Power chances.
    • Common Pitfall: Adapting to the song's unusual rhythm and structure.
  • "Thunderhorse" by Dethklok
    • Strategy: A heavy metal track with fast, aggressive riffs and a challenging solo. Expect rapid alternate picking and quick finger movements. This song is a good test of your metal chops.
    • Star Power Activation: The main riffs and the solo are excellent for Star Power.
    • Common Pitfall: Maintaining stamina through the fast, heavy sections.
  • "Raw Dog" by The Last Vegas
    • Strategy: A hard rock track with a driving beat and a straightforward, energetic feel. Features consistent strumming and a catchy main riff. The solo is classic rock-inspired.
    • Star Power Activation: The main riff and the solo are good for Star Power.
    • Common Pitfall: Overstrumming on the repetitive sections.
  • "Red Lottery" by The Faint
    • Strategy: An indie rock track with a distinctive, slightly angular rhythm. Features some quick, repetitive note patterns and a unique sound. The solo is short and sharp.
    • Star Power Activation: The main riff and instrumental breaks provide good Star Power opportunities.
    • Common Pitfall: Getting used to the song's specific rhythmic feel.
  • "Jordan" by Buckethead (Xbox 360 Exclusive)
    • Strategy: See Tier 5 description. This is a bonus track on the Xbox 360, but its difficulty places it among the highest tiers.
    • Star Power Activation: See Tier 5 description.
    • Common Pitfall: See Tier 5 description.
  • "Through the Fire and Flames" by DragonForce (Xbox 360 Exclusive)
    • Strategy: See Tier 5 description. This is a bonus track on the Xbox 360, but its difficulty places it among the highest tiers.
    • Star Power Activation: See Tier 5 description.
    • Common Pitfall: See Tier 5 description.