Dominant 7th chords are essential for any guitarist who wants to expand their harmonic vocabulary. They add a richness and depth to your playing that can’t be achieved with simple major or minor chords.
Editor’s Note:Dominant 7th chords are so important that we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you master them. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about dominant 7th chords, including how to build them, how to play them, and how to use them in your own music.
We’ve done the hard work of analyzing and compiling all the information you need to know about dominant 7th chords. So whether you’re a beginner who’s just starting to learn about them or an experienced guitarist who wants to brush up on your knowledge, this guide has something for you.
Key Differences:
| Characteristic | Major 7th Chord | Dominant 7th Chord |
|---|---|---|
| Root | 1 | 1 |
| Major 3rd | 3 | 3 |
| Perfect 5th | 5 | 5 |
| Minor 7th | – | 7 |
Main Article Topics:
- What are dominant 7th chords?
- How to build dominant 7th chords
- How to play dominant 7th chords
- How to use dominant 7th chords in your own music
1. Construction
This construction is what gives dominant 7th chords their characteristic sound. The major triad provides the chord with its brightness and stability, while the minor 7th interval adds a touch of tension and dissonance. This tension is what gives dominant 7th chords their sense of movement and forward momentum.
- Voicings: The construction of dominant 7th chords allows for a variety of different voicings. This means that you can play the same chord in different positions on the guitar neck, giving you a wide range of tonal options to choose from.
- Inversions: Dominant 7th chords can also be inverted, which means that the notes of the chord are rearranged. This can be a useful way to create different sounds and textures in your music.
- Function: Dominant 7th chords typically function as the V chord in a major key or the vii chord in a minor key. This means that they are often used to create a sense of tension and movement in your music.
- Resolution: Dominant 7th chords usually resolve to the I chord in a major key or the i chord in a minor key. This resolution creates a sense of satisfaction and closure, which is why dominant 7th chords are so commonly used in popular music.
Understanding the construction of dominant 7th chords is essential for any guitarist who wants to use them effectively in their music. By understanding how these chords are built, you can start to experiment with different voicings and inversions to create your own unique sound.
2. Inversion
The inversion of dominant 7th chords is a crucial concept for guitarists to understand, as it allows you to create a wider range of sounds and textures in your music. By inverting a dominant 7th chord, you are simply changing the order of the notes in the chord. This can be done in three different ways, resulting in four different voicings:
- Root position: This is the most common voicing of a dominant 7th chord, and it consists of the root note, the third, the fifth, and the seventh.
- First inversion: This voicing consists of the third, the fifth, the seventh, and the root.
- Second inversion: This voicing consists of the fifth, the seventh, the root, and the third.
- Third inversion: This voicing consists of the seventh, the root, the third, and the fifth.
Each of these voicings has its own unique sound and character. The root position voicing is the most stable and consonant, while the third inversion voicing is the most dissonant. The first and second inversion voicings fall somewhere in between. By understanding how to invert dominant 7th chords, you can start to experiment with different voicings to create your own unique sound. You can also use inversions to create smooth voice leading between chords, or to avoid awkward fingerings. Here are some examples of how you can use inversions in your own music:
- To create a smoother transition between chords, you can use a first inversion voicing of the dominant 7th chord. This will help to avoid the awkward jump between the root and the third of the chord.
- To add a touch of dissonance to your music, you can use a third inversion voicing of the dominant 7th chord. This will create a sense of tension and excitement.
- To create a more open and airy sound, you can use a second inversion voicing of the dominant 7th chord. This will spread out the notes of the chord, giving it a more spacious sound.
By understanding how to invert dominant 7th chords, you can start to experiment with different voicings to create your own unique sound. So get out there and start experimenting!
| Inversion | Voicing |
|---|---|
| Root position | 1-3-5-7 |
| First inversion | 3-5-7-1 |
| Second inversion | 5-7-1-3 |
| Third inversion | 7-1-3-5 |
3. Function
The function of a dominant 7th chord is to create a sense of tension and anticipation, which is why they are often used in dominant 7th chords guitar. This tension is created by the dissonance between the major triad and the minor 7th interval. When a dominant 7th chord is resolved to the tonic chord, this tension is released, creating a sense of satisfaction and closure.
The V chord in a major key and the vii chord in a minor key are both dominant 7th chords. This is because they both contain the same notes: the root, the major third, the perfect fifth, and the minor seventh. The only difference between the two chords is their function. The V chord is used to create a sense of tension and anticipation before resolving to the I chord, while the vii chord is used to create a sense of anticipation before resolving to the i chord.
Understanding the function of dominant 7th chords is essential for any guitarist who wants to use them effectively in their music. By understanding how these chords work, you can start to use them to create your own unique sound and style.
Here are some examples of how dominant 7th chords a
re used in popular music:
- “Johnny B. Goode” by Chuck Berry: The V chord is used in the chorus to create a sense of tension and anticipation before resolving to the I chord.
- “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple: The vii chord is used in the intro to create a sense of anticipation before resolving to the i chord.
- “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd: The V chord is used in the chorus to create a sense of tension and anticipation before resolving to the I chord.
| Chord | Function | Key |
|---|---|---|
| V | Creates tension and anticipation | Major |
| vii | Creates anticipation | Minor |
4. Resolution
The resolution of dominant 7th chords is a fundamental aspect of their function and sound. When a dominant 7th chord resolves to the tonic chord, it creates a sense of satisfaction and closure. This is because the tension created by the dissonance between the major triad and the minor 7th interval is released when the chord resolves to the tonic.
The resolution of dominant 7th chords is also important for creating a sense of movement and forward momentum in music. When a dominant 7th chord is used in a chord progression, it creates a feeling of anticipation and expectation. This is because the listener expects the chord to resolve to the tonic. When the chord does resolve, it creates a sense of satisfaction and closure, and the music moves forward.
Here are some examples of how dominant 7th chords are used in popular music:
- “Johnny B. Goode” by Chuck Berry: The V chord is used in the chorus to create a sense of tension and anticipation before resolving to the I chord.
- “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple: The vii chord is used in the intro to create a sense of anticipation before resolving to the i chord.
- “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd: The V chord is used in the chorus to create a sense of tension and anticipation before resolving to the I chord.
| Chord | Function | Key |
|---|---|---|
| V | Creates tension and anticipation | Major |
| vii | Creates anticipation | Minor |
Understanding the resolution of dominant 7th chords is essential for any guitarist who wants to use them effectively in their music. By understanding how these chords work, you can start to use them to create your own unique sound and style.
5. Tension
Tension is a crucial element of dominant 7th chords, contributing significantly to their distinctive character and versatility in musical compositions. The dissonance between the major triad and the minor 7th interval generates a sense of unresolved anticipation, propelling the music forward and creating a dynamic and engaging listening experience.
The tension inherent in dominant 7th chords can be harnessed to evoke a wide range of emotions and create specific musical effects. For instance, a dominant 7th chord resolving to the tonic chord instills a sense of resolution and closure, while leaving it unresolved can heighten tension and build anticipation for subsequent harmonic developments.
Understanding the function of tension in dominant 7th chords is essential for guitarists seeking to incorporate them effectively into their playing. By deliberately employing this tension, guitarists can craft captivating melodies and chord progressions that leave a lasting impression on the listener.
| Concept | Description |
|---|---|
| Tension | The dissonance between the major triad and the minor 7th interval in dominant 7th chords creates a sense of unresolved anticipation. |
| Effect | The tension generated by dominant 7th chords adds depth, dynamism, and emotional impact to music. |
| Usage | Guitarists can harness the tension in dominant 7th chords to create captivating melodies and chord progressions. |
6. Jazz
In the realm of jazz music, dominant 7th chords occupy a prominent position, serving as foundational components in the construction of intricate and nuanced harmonies. Their unique ability to generate tension and resolution plays a pivotal role in shaping the dynamic and improvisational nature of jazz.
- Harmonic Complexity: Dominant 7th chords introduce a layer of harmonic complexity that goes beyond the basic major and minor triads. The presence of the minor 7th interval creates a dissonant tension that propels the music forward, demanding resolution. This dissonance adds depth and sophistication to jazz harmonies, allowing for a wide range of harmonic possibilities.
- Improvisational Foundation: The inherent tension of dominant 7th chords provides a fertile ground for improvisation. Jazz musicians often use these chords as a starting point for exploring melodic and harmonic ideas. The tension created by the minor 7th interval encourages experimentation and encourages musicians to push the boundaries of tonality.
- Cadence and Resolution: Dominant 7th chords play a crucial role in creating cadences and establishing a sense of resolution in jazz music. The classic V-I cadence, where a dominant 7th chord resolves to the tonic chord, is a fundamental building block of jazz harmony. This cadence provides a sense of closure and forward momentum, shaping the overall structure and flow of jazz compositions.
- Influence on Guitar Playing: The extensive use of dominant 7th chords in jazz has had a profound impact on the development of guitar playing within the genre. Jazz guitarists have mastered the art of voicing and manipulating these chords, creating a unique and expressive vocabulary that has become synonymous with jazz guitar.
In conclusion, the interplay between dominant 7th chords and jazz music is a testament to their harmonic power and versatility. These chords provide the foundation for the complex and sophisticated harmonies that characterize jazz, fostering improvisation and shaping the overall structure and feel of the music. Their influence extends beyond the realm of jazz, enriching the guitar playing techniques and harmonic understanding of musicians across genres.
7. Blues
In the realm of blues music, dominant 7th chords serve as indispensable building blocks, contributing significantly to the genre’s characteristic “grit and emotion.” Their unique harmonic structure, featuring the tension-inducing minor 7th interval, brings a depth of expression that enhances the raw and soulful nature of the blues.
The dissonant quality of dominant 7th chords creates a sense of unresolved tension, which mirrors the emotional intensity often expressed in blues lyrics and melodies. This tension is masterfully exploited
by blues musicians to evoke a range of emotions, from melancholy and longing to unrestrained passion and joy.
Moreover, the use of dominant 7th chords in blues music is closely tied to the genre’s rich history and cultural roots. Blues music originated in the experiences of African American communities in the rural South, where it served as a means of expressing both joy and sorrow. The incorporation of dominant 7th chords into blues music reflects the influence of African musical traditions, in which dissonant harmonies are commonly employed to convey emotional depth and complexity.
Understanding the connection between dominant 7th chords and blues music is crucial for guitarists seeking to capture the authentic sound and feel of the genre. By incorporating these chords into their playing, guitarists can add a layer of sophistication and emotional resonance to their blues performances.
Here are some notable examples of dominant 7th chords in blues music:
- “Crossroads Blues” by Robert Johnson: The use of a dominant 7th chord in the song’s opening riff sets the tone for the emotional intensity that follows.
- “Sweet Home Chicago” by Robert Johnson: The dominant 7th chord progression in the chorus adds a sense of longing and desperation to the lyrics.
- “The Thrill Is Gone” by B.B. King: The dominant 7th chords throughout the song contribute to its melancholic and deeply emotional atmosphere.
| Characteristic | Effect |
|---|---|
| Tension created by minor 7th interval | Evokes a sense of unresolved emotion and intensity |
| Influence of African musical traditions | Reflects the genre’s cultural roots and emotional expressiveness |
| Use by guitarists | Adds sophistication and emotional resonance to blues performances |
8. Rock
In the realm of rock music, dominant 7th chords stand as indispensable tools for generating a sense of raw power and unrestrained energy. Their unique harmonic structure, featuring the dissonant minor 7th interval, brings a depth of expression that enhances the driving rhythms and soaring melodies characteristic of rock music.
The dissonant quality of dominant 7th chords creates a sense of tension and excitement that propels the music forward. This tension is masterfully exploited by rock musicians to evoke a range of emotions, from triumphant joy to unbridled aggression. The minor 7th interval adds a touch of complexity that distinguishes dominant 7th chords from their major and minor counterparts, giving them a distinctive edge that is perfectly suited to the intensity of rock music.
Moreover, the use of dominant 7th chords in rock music is closely tied to the genre’s rebellious and energetic spirit. Rock music emerged as a form of youthful expression and rebellion against societal norms, and the use of dominant 7th chords reflects this rebellious nature. These chords challenge traditional harmonic conventions and create a sense of urgency and excitement that resonates with the rebellious spirit of rock music.
Understanding the connection between dominant 7th chords and rock music is crucial for guitarists seeking to capture the authentic sound and feel of the genre. By incorporating these chords into their playing, guitarists can add a layer of sophistication and raw energy to their rock performances.
Here are some notable examples of dominant 7th chords in rock music:
- “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple: The iconic riff of this song is built on a dominant 7th chord, creating a sense of power and anticipation.
- “You Really Got Me” by The Kinks: The dominant 7th chord in the chorus adds a touch of aggression and excitement to this classic rock anthem.
- “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin: The use of dominant 7th chords throughout this song contributes to its driving rhythm and intense energy.
| Characteristic | Effect |
|---|---|
| Dissonant minor 7th interval | Creates a sense of tension and excitement |
| Rebellious and energetic spirit | Reflects the rebellious nature of rock music |
| Use by guitarists | Adds sophistication and raw energy to rock performances |
9. Pop
In the realm of pop music, dominant 7th chords serve as versatile tools for adding a layer of sophistication and elegance to compositions. Their unique harmonic structure, featuring the dissonant minor 7th interval, brings a touch of complexity that distinguishes them from basic major and minor chords.
The dissonant quality of dominant 7th chords creates a sense of tension and intrigue that can enhance the emotional impact of pop songs. This tension is masterfully exploited by pop musicians to evoke a range of emotions, from heartfelt longing to joyous celebration. The minor 7th interval adds a touch of depth and sophistication that sets dominant 7th chords apart from their simpler counterparts, making them ideally suited for the nuanced and expressive nature of pop music.
Moreover, the use of dominant 7th chords in pop music is closely tied to the genre’s commercial appeal and accessibility. Pop music strives to connect with a wide audience, and the incorporation of dominant 7th chords adds a touch of sophistication that can appeal to listeners of all ages and backgrounds. These chords provide a subtle yet effective way to enhance the harmonic complexity of pop songs without alienating casual listeners.
Understanding the connection between dominant 7th chords and pop music is crucial for musicians seeking to create captivating and commercially successful pop songs. By incorporating these chords into their compositions, musicians can add a layer of sophistication and elegance that will resonate with listeners and help their music stand out in the competitive pop landscape.
Here are some notable examples of dominant 7th chords in pop music:
- “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake: The dominant 7th chord in the chorus adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to this upbeat and infectious pop anthem.
- “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran: The dominant 7th chord in the verse provides a subtle yet effective harmonic twist that enhances the song’s emotional impact.
- “Bad Romance” by Lady Gaga: The dominant 7th chord in the chorus adds a touch of drama and intensity to this iconic pop masterpiece.
In conclusion, the connection between dominant 7th chords and pop music is a testament to the versatility and expressive power of these chords. They provide a means to add sophistication, elegance, and emotional depth to pop compositions, enhancing their commercial appeal and resonating with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
| Characteristic | Effect |
|---|---|
| Dissonant minor 7th interval | Creates a sense of tension and intrigue |
| Sophistication and elegance | Enhances the emotional impact of pop songs |
| Commercial appeal | Connects with a wide audience |
Frequently Asked Questions about Dominant 7th Chords for Guitar
This FAQ section provides answers to common questions and misconceptions about dominant 7th chords for guitar, offerin
g clear and concise information to enhance your understanding of this fundamental concept.
Question 1: What is a dominant 7th chord?
Answer: A dominant 7th chord is a four-note chord with a structure consisting of a root note, a major third, a perfect fifth, and a minor seventh. This combination creates a dissonant and unresolved sound that adds tension and depth to musical compositions.
Question 2: How do I construct a dominant 7th chord on guitar?
Answer: To construct a dominant 7th chord on guitar, start with a major triad (root, major third, and perfect fifth). Then, raise the third by one fret to create the minor seventh interval. This can be applied to any root note to form different dominant 7th chords.
Question 3: What is the purpose of using dominant 7th chords in music?
Answer: Dominant 7th chords play a crucial role in Western music, particularly in genres such as jazz, blues, rock, and pop. They create tension and a sense of anticipation, often resolving to tonic chords to provide a sense of closure. Their dissonant nature adds richness and complexity to musical progressions.
Question 4: How can I practice and improve my dominant 7th chord playing?
Answer: Regular practice is essential for mastering dominant 7th chords. Practice constructing and voicing the chords in different positions on the guitar neck. Experiment with different fingerings and inversions to enhance your dexterity and familiarity with these chords.
Question 5: What are some tips for using dominant 7th chords effectively in songwriting?
Answer: When incorporating dominant 7th chords into your songwriting, consider their function and resolution. Use them to create tension and movement in your chord progressions. Experiment with different voicings and inversions to achieve desired harmonic effects. Remember, the key is to use them purposefully and in moderation to avoid overwhelming the listener.
Question 6: How do dominant 7th chords enhance improvisation?
Answer: Dominant 7th chords provide a fertile ground for improvisation. Their inherent tension encourages experimentation and exploration of melodic and harmonic ideas. Jazz musicians, in particular, utilize dominant 7th chords as a starting point for improvisation, allowing for endless possibilities in soloing and comping.
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about dominant 7th chords for guitar. By understanding these concepts and practicing regularly, you can master this essential aspect of guitar playing and unlock new possibilities in your musical journey.
Feel free to explore other resources or consult with experienced guitarists for further guidance and support in your learning.
Tips for Using Dominant 7th Chords on Guitar
Incorporating dominant 7th chords into your guitar playing can greatly enhance your harmonic vocabulary and add depth to your music. Here are a few tips to help you master these chords and use them effectively:
Tip 1: Understand Their Construction
Dominant 7th chords are built by taking a major triad and adding a minor 7th interval. This unique combination creates a dissonant sound that adds tension and resolution to chord progressions.
Tip 2: Practice Different Voicings
There are multiple ways to voice a dominant 7th chord on the guitar neck. Experiment with different fingerings and inversions to find the voicings that suit your playing style and the desired harmonic effect.
Tip 3: Resolve Them Effectively
Dominant 7th chords typically resolve to tonic chords, creating a sense of closure and movement in your music. Practice transitioning smoothly between dominant 7th chords and their resolutions.
Tip 4: Use Them in Improvisation
The dissonant nature of dominant 7th chords makes them a great starting point for improvisation. Experiment with different melodies and chord progressions to explore the harmonic possibilities they offer.
Tip 5: Experiment with Inversions
Inversions of dominant 7th chords can provide a fresh and unexpected sound. Try inverting the chord to create different voicings and harmonic effects.
Summary:
By understanding the construction of dominant 7th chords, practicing different voicings, resolving them effectively, and experimenting with their use in improvisation and inversions, you can unlock the full potential of these chords and add sophistication and depth to your guitar playing.
Conclusion
Dominant 7th chords are fundamental building blocks in the world of guitar playing, adding richness, depth, and harmonic sophistication to music across genres. Their unique dissonant sound and inherent tension make them powerful tools for creating emotional impact and propelling musical progressions forward.
Throughout this exploration, we have delved into the construction, voicing, function, and application of dominant 7th chords on the guitar. By understanding these concepts and practicing regularly, guitarists can master this essential aspect of their craft and unlock endless possibilities in their musical journey.
The incorporation of dominant 7th chords into your guitar playing not only enhances your technical abilities but also opens up a world of harmonic possibilities. Experiment with different voicings, inversions, and resolutions to discover the expressive range these chords offer. Embrace their dissonant nature to create tension and anticipation, and utilize their inherent drive to propel your music forward.
As you continue your musical journey, remember the significance of dominant 7th chords and their profound impact on guitar playing. They are not merely chords to be memorized; they are tools to be explored, understood, and applied with creativity and passion.
Embrace the challenge of mastering dominant 7th chords, and you will unlock a new level of harmonic sophistication and expressiveness in your guitar playing.
