I mostly only learn songs that I love to listen to. So I know them pretty well before I set out to learn them. And sometimes I stumble onto them while jamming!
But, I play weddings and parties and at church, so sometimes I learn songs I don't love. Here is my process.
1. Listen to the song - don't take notes, don't over think it, just get the vibe
2. Look for a tabs/chord sheet, preferably with the lyrics (ultimate-guitar, google)
3. Listen to the song and follow along on the tab/chord sheet. Make notes about how many times things are played, how different parts are sung. Basically just get the overall structure.
4. Listen to the song and play/sing along with it at your comfort level.
5. Play the song by yourself. See what parts need work and repeat step 4.
Some songs are easy and I learn it completely by ear and have the lyrics memorized, others I spend alot of time on step 4. Gets easier the more ya do it.
Hope this helps!
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