The B7sus4 chord is a dominant seventh chord with a suspended fourth. It is constructed with the root note (B), the major third (D#), the perfect fifth (F#), and the suspended fourth (A). The suspended fourth creates a sense of tension and anticipation, making the B7sus4 chord a popular choice for jazz, blues, and rock music.
Editor’s Notes: Understanding guitar chord b7sus4
This chord is commonly used in jazz and blues music. It has a unique sound that can add interest and complexity to your playing. Learning how to play the B7sus4 chord will allow you to expand your musical vocabulary and take your guitar playing to the next level.
We’ve put together this guide to help you learn everything you need to know about the B7sus4 chord, including how to play it, when to use it, and some great songs that use it.
Key differences or Key takeaways
| B7 chord | B7sus4 chord | |
|---|---|---|
| Root note | B | B |
| Third | D# | D# |
| Fifth | F# | F# |
| Seventh | A | None |
How to play the B7sus4 chord
The B7sus4 chord is played by barring the first three strings at the second fret with your index finger. Your middle finger should be on the fourth string, third fret, and your ring finger should be on the fifth string, fourth fret. Your pinky finger should be on the sixth string, fifth fret.
When to use the B7sus4 chord
The B7sus4 chord is a versatile chord that can be used in a variety of musical contexts. It is commonly used in jazz, blues, and rock music. It can also be used to add interest and complexity to pop and country songs.
Some great songs that use the B7sus4 chord
- “All Blues” by Miles Davis
- “Blue Train” by John Coltrane
- “So What” by Miles Davis
- “Giant Steps” by John Coltrane
- “Autumn Leaves” by Cannonball Adderley
1. Root note
The root note of a chord is the note that gives the chord its name. In the case of the B7sus4 chord, the root note is B. The root note is the most important note in the chord, and it determines the chord’s overall sound and function.
The root note of the B7sus4 chord is B, which is the seventh note in the chromatic scale. The B7sus4 chord is a dominant seventh chord, which means that it contains a major third, a perfect fifth, and a minor seventh. The suspended fourth in the B7sus4 chord creates a sense of tension and anticipation, which makes it a popular choice for jazz, blues, and rock music.
The B7sus4 chord is a versatile chord that can be used in a variety of musical contexts. It is commonly used as a dominant seventh chord, resolving to the E major or minor chord. It can also be used as a substitute for the B7 chord, adding a bit of extra interest and complexity.
Overall, the root note of the B7sus4 chord is an important part of the chord’s overall sound and function. Understanding the role of the root note can help you to better understand how to use the B7sus4 chord in your own music.
Table: The root note of the B7sus4 chord
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Note | B |
| Scale degree | 7th |
| Interval from root to third | Major third |
| Interval from root to fifth | Perfect fifth |
| Interval from root to seventh | Minor seventh |
2. Third
The third of a chord is the note that is three scale degrees above the root note. In the case of the B7sus4 chord, the third is D#. The major third interval is a consonant interval, and it gives the B7sus4 chord its characteristic bright and open sound.
- The role of the major third in the B7sus4 chord
The major third is a key component of the B7sus4 chord. It provides the chord with its characteristic bright and open sound. Without the major third, the B7sus4 chord would sound muddy and dissonant.
- Examples of the B7sus4 chord in real life
The B7sus4 chord is a common chord in jazz, blues, and rock music. It can be found in a wide variety of songs, including “All Blues” by Miles Davis, “Blue Train” by John Coltrane, and “So What” by Miles Davis.
- Implications of the major third for playing the B7sus4 chord
The major third interval can be challenging to play on the guitar, especially for beginners. However, it is important to practice playing the major third correctly in order to get the full sound of the B7sus4 chord.
Overall, the major third is an important part of the B7sus4 chord. It gives the chord its characteristic bright and open sound, and it is a key component of many jazz, blues, and rock songs.
3. Fifth
The perfect fifth is the interval between the root note and the fifth note of a scale. In the case of the B7sus4 chord, the perfect fifth is F#. The perfect fifth is a consonant interval, and it gives the B7sus4 chord its characteristic open and resonant sound.
The perfect fifth is an important part of the B7sus4 chord. It provides the chord with its characteristic open and resonant sound. Without the perfect fifth, the B7sus4 chord would sound muddy and dissonant.
The perfect fifth is also important for the functioning of the B7sus4 chord. The perfect fifth creates a sense of tension and anticipation, which makes the B7sus4 chord a popular choice for jazz, blues, and rock music.
Overall, the perfect fifth is an important part of the B7sus4 chord. It gives the chord its characteristic open and resonant sound, and it is also important for the functioning of the chord.
Table: The perfect fifth in the B7sus4 chord
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Interval | Perfect fifth |
| Scale degree | 5th |
| Interval from root to fifth | Perfect fifth |
| Function | Provides open and resonant sound; creates tension and anticipation |
4. Seventh
Th
e suspended fourth in the B7sus4 chord is what gives it its characteristic sound. The suspended fourth creates a sense of tension and anticipation, which makes the B7sus4 chord a popular choice for jazz, blues, and rock music.
- The role of the suspended fourth in the B7sus4 chord
The suspended fourth is a key component of the B7sus4 chord. It provides the chord with its characteristic sound and function. Without the suspended fourth, the B7sus4 chord would sound like a regular B7 chord.
- Examples of the B7sus4 chord in real life
The B7sus4 chord is a common chord in jazz, blues, and rock music. It can be found in a wide variety of songs, including “All Blues” by Miles Davis, “Blue Train” by John Coltrane, and “So What” by Miles Davis.
- Implications of the suspended fourth for playing the B7sus4 chord
The suspended fourth can be challenging to play on the guitar, especially for beginners. However, it is important to practice playing the suspended fourth correctly in order to get the full sound of the B7sus4 chord.
- Comparison to other seventh chords
The B7sus4 chord is similar to other seventh chords, such as the B7 chord and the Bmaj7 chord. However, the suspended fourth in the B7sus4 chord gives it a unique sound and function. The B7sus4 chord is often used to create a sense of tension and anticipation, while the B7 chord is more often used to resolve to a tonic chord.
Overall, the suspended fourth is an important part of the B7sus4 chord. It gives the chord its characteristic sound and function, and it is a key component of many jazz, blues, and rock songs.
5. Inversions
The B7sus4 chord can be inverted three times. This means that you can play the chord in four different positions on the guitar neck. The different inversions of the B7sus4 chord have different sounds and voicings, which can be used to create different effects in your music.
The first inversion of the B7sus4 chord is the B7sus4/D chord. This chord is played with the root note on the second string, the third on the third string, the fifth on the fourth string, and the suspended fourth on the fifth string. The B7sus4/D chord has a more open and spacious sound than the root position B7sus4 chord.
The second inversion of the B7sus4 chord is the B7sus4/F# chord. This chord is played with the root note on the third string, the third on the fourth string, the fifth on the fifth string, and the suspended fourth on the sixth string. The B7sus4/F# chord has a more mellow and laid-back sound than the root position B7sus4 chord.
The third inversion of the B7sus4 chord is the B7sus4/A chord. This chord is played with the root note on the fourth string, the third on the fifth string, the fifth on the sixth string, and the suspended fourth on the first string. The B7sus4/A chord has a more dissonant and tense sound than the root position B7sus4 chord.
The different inversions of the B7sus4 chord can be used to create a variety of different effects in your music. For example, you can use the B7sus4/D chord to create a more open and spacious sound, the B7sus4/F# chord to create a more mellow and laid-back sound, and the B7sus4/A chord to create a more dissonant and tense sound.
Table: Inversions of the B7sus4 chord
| Inversion | Root note | Third | Fifth | Suspended fourth | Sound |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Root position | B | D# | F# | A | Bright and open |
| First inversion (B7sus4/D) | D | F# | A | B | Open and spacious |
| Second inversion (B7sus4/F#) | F# | A | B | D | Mellow and laid-back |
| Third inversion (B7sus4/A) | A | B | D | F# | Dissonant and tense |
6. Voicings
The B7sus4 chord has a variety of possible voicings, which means that you can play the chord in different positions on the guitar neck to create different sounds.
- Open voicings
Open voicings are played with the notes of the chord spread out across the strings, creating a more spacious and airy sound. Open voicings are often used in jazz and fingerstyle guitar playing.
- Closed voicings
Closed voicings are played with the notes of the chord close together on the neck, creating a more compact and focused sound. Closed voicings are often used in rock and blues guitar playing.
- Drop 2 voicings
Drop 2 voicings are a type of closed voicing in which the root note is played on the lowest string, the third is played on the second string, and the fifth and suspended fourth are played on the third and fourth strings. Drop 2 voicings have a strong and punchy sound, and they are often used in jazz and blues guitar playing.
- Drop 3 voicings
Drop 3 voicings are a type of closed voicing in which the root note is played on the lowest string, the third is played on the third string, and the fifth and suspended fourth are played on the fourth and fifth strings. Drop 3 voicings have a more open and spacious sound than drop 2 voicings, and they are often used in jazz and fingerstyle guitar playing.
The different voicings of the B7sus4 chord can be used to create a variety of different effects in your music. For example, you can use open voicings to create a more spacious and airy sound, closed voicings to create a more compact and focused sound, and drop 2 and drop 3 voicings to create a strong and punchy sound.
7. Tonal context
The B7sus4 chord is a dominant seventh chord, which means that it contains a major third, a perfect fifth, and a minor seventh. Dominant seventh chords are often used to create a sense of tension and anticipation, and they can resolve to a variety of other chords. In the case of the B7sus4 chord, it typically resolves to the E major or minor chord.
The tonal context of a chord is the key or scale that the chord is played in. The B7sus4 chord can be used in a variety of tonal contexts, but it is most commonly used in jazz, blues, and rock music.
In jazz music, the B7sus4 chord is often used as a substitute for the B7 chord. The B7sus4 chord has a more open and spacious sound than the B7 chord, and it can be used to create a variety of different harmonic effects.
In blues music, the B7sus4 chord is often used as a turnaround chord. Turnaround chords are used to connect different sections of a song, and they can help to create a sense of movement and flow.
In rock music, the B7sus4 chord is often used as a power chord. Power chords are played with only the root note and the perfect fifth, and they have a strong and powerful sound. The B7sus4 power chord is often used in rock and heavy metal music.
8. Guitar chord b7sus4
The B7sus4 chord is a versatile and useful chord that can be used in a variety of musical contexts. It is a relatively easy chord to learn, and it can add a lot of interest and complexity to your playing.
Here are some tips for playing the B7sus4 chord on the guitar:
- Place your index finger on the second fret of the first string.
- Place your middle finger on the second fret of the second string.
- Place your ring finger on the third fret of the fourth string.
- Place your pinky finger on the fourth fret of the fifth string.
- Strum all six strings.
You can also play the B7sus4 chord in other positions on the guitar neck. Experiment with different fingerings and voicings to find the ones that you like the best.
9. Function
The B7sus4 chord is a dominant seventh chord, which means that it contains a major third, a perfect fifth, and a minor seventh. Dominant seventh chords are often used to create a sense of tension and anticipation, and they typically resolve to a major or minor chord. In the case of the B7sus4 chord, it typically resolves to the E major or minor chord.
- Resolution to E major
The B7sus4 chord can resolve to the E major chord in a variety of musical contexts. For example, it can be used as a turnaround chord in a blues song, or it can be used as a dominant seventh chord in a jazz standard. When the B7sus4 chord resolves to the E major chord, it creates a sense of movement and progression.
- Resolution to E minor
The B7sus4 chord can also resolve to the E minor chord. This is less common than resolving to E major, but it can be used to create a more somber or introspective sound. For example, the B7sus4 chord might resolve to the E minor chord in a ballad or a folk song.
The B7sus4 chord is a versatile and useful chord that can be used in a variety of musical contexts. It is a relatively easy chord to learn, and it can add a lot of interest and complexity to your playing.
10. Common uses
The B7sus4 chord is a common chord in jazz, blues, and rock music. It is a versatile chord that can be used in a variety of musical contexts. In jazz, the B7sus4 chord is often used as a substitute for the B7 chord. The B7sus4 chord has a more open and spacious sound than the B7 chord, and it can be used to create a variety of different harmonic effects. In blues music, the B7sus4 chord is often used as a turnaround chord. Turnaround chords are used to connect different sections of a song, and they can help to create a sense of movement and flow. In rock music, the B7sus4 chord is often used as a power chord. Power chords are played with only the root note and the perfect fifth, and they have a strong and powerful sound. The B7sus4 power chord is often used in rock and heavy metal music.
The popularity of the B7sus4 chord in jazz, blues, and rock music is due to its unique sound and its ability to create a sense of tension and anticipation. The suspended fourth in the B7sus4 chord gives it a more open and spacious sound than the B7 chord, and it can be used to create a variety of different harmonic effects. The B7sus4 chord is also a versatile chord that can be used in a variety of musical contexts, from jazz standards to blues shuffles to rock anthems.
Here are some examples of songs that use the B7sus4 chord:
- “All Blues” by Miles Davis
- “Blue Train” by John Coltrane
- “So What” by Miles Davis
- “Giant Steps” by John Coltrane
- “Autumn Leaves” by Cannonball Adderley
- “Born Under a Bad Sign” by Albert King
- “Crossroads” by Robert Johnson
- “Sweet Home Chicago” by Muddy Waters
- “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple
- “Enter Sandman” by Metallica
The B7sus4 chord is a versatile and useful chord that can be used to add interest and complexity to your playing. It is a relatively easy chord to learn, and it can be used in a variety of musical contexts.
Table: Common uses of the B7sus4 chord in jazz, blues, and rock music
| Genre | Use | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Jazz | Substitute for the B7 chord | “All Blues” by Miles Davis, “Blue Train” by John Coltrane |
| Blues | Turnaround chord | “Born Under a Bad Sign” by Albert King, “Crossroads” by Robert Johnson |
| Rock | Power chord | “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple, “Enter Sandman” by Metallica |
11. Difficulty
The B7sus4 chord is a relatively easy chord to learn. This is because it only requires three fingers to play, and the fingering is relatively straightforward. The B7sus4 chord is also a movable chord, which means that you can play it in different positions on the guitar neck. This makes it a versatile chord that can be used in a variety of musical contexts.
The ease of learning the B7sus4 chord makes it a good choice for beginner guitarists. It is a relatively simple chord to learn, and it can be used to add interest and complexity to your playing. Once you have mastered the B7sus4 chord, you can start to experiment with different voicings and inversions to create different sounds.
The B7sus4 chord is a versatile and useful chord that can be used in a variety of musical contexts. It is a relatively easy chord to learn, and it can add a lot of interest and complexity to your playing.
Table: Benefits of the B7sus4 chord being easy to learn
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Accessible to beginners | The B7sus4 chord is a good choice for beginner guitarists because it is relatively easy to learn. |
| Versatile | The B7sus4 chord can be used in a variety of musical contexts, from jazz to blues to rock. |
| Improves playing | Learning the B7sus4 chord can help you to improve your overall guitar playing skills. |
12. Notation
The notation “B7sus4” is used to represent the guitar chord B7sus4. This notation indicates that the chord is a dominant seventh chord with a suspended fourth. The root note of the chord is B, and the other notes in the chord are D#, F#, and A. The suspended fourth in the chord gives it a unique sound that is often used in jazz, blues, and rock music.
The notation “B7sus4” is important because it allows guitarists to communicate the chord they are playing to other musicians. This is especially important when playing in a band or ensemble, as it ensures that everyone is playing the same chord. The notation also helps guitarists to learn new chords, as it provides a clear and concise way to represent the chord’s structure.
In
addition to its practical significance, the notation “B7sus4” also has a theoretical significance. The notation indicates that the chord is a dominant seventh chord, which is a type of chord that is often used to create tension and anticipation in music. The suspended fourth in the chord further adds to the tension, making the chord a powerful tool for creating musical expression.
Table: The connection between “Notation: B7sus4” and “guitar chord b7sus4”
| Notation | Guitar chord | Description |
|---|---|---|
| B7sus4 | B7sus4 | A dominant seventh chord with a suspended fourth. The root note is B, and the other notes in the chord are D#, F#, and A. |
13. Related chords
The B7sus4 chord is closely related to three other chords: the B7 chord, the Bmaj7 chord, and the Bmin7 chord. These four chords share the same root note (B), but they have different intervals, which give them different sounds and functions.
- B7 chord
The B7 chord is a dominant seventh chord, which means that it contains a major third, a perfect fifth, and a minor seventh. Dominant seventh chords are often used to create a sense of tension and anticipation, and they typically resolve to a major or minor chord. In the case of the B7 chord, it typically resolves to the E major chord.
- Bmaj7 chord
The Bmaj7 chord is a major seventh chord, which means that it contains a major third, a perfect fifth, and a major seventh. Major seventh chords have a bright and open sound, and they are often used to create a sense of hope or joy. The Bmaj7 chord is a particularly versatile chord, as it can be used in a variety of musical contexts, from jazz to pop to rock.
- Bmin7 chord
The Bmin7 chord is a minor seventh chord, which means that it contains a minor third, a perfect fifth, and a minor seventh. Minor seventh chords have a dark and somber sound, and they are often used to create a sense of sadness or introspection. The Bmin7 chord is a common chord in jazz and blues music, and it can also be used to add a touch of sadness to pop or rock songs.
The B7sus4 chord is closely related to the B7, Bmaj7, and Bmin7 chords, and it can be used to create a variety of different sounds and moods in your music. Experiment with these four chords to see how they can be used to enhance your playing.
FAQs
This section addresses frequently asked questions about the guitar chord B7sus4, providing informative answers to enhance understanding and practical application.
Question 1: What is the B7sus4 chord, and how is it constructed?
Answer: The B7sus4 chord is a dominant seventh chord with a suspended fourth. It is constructed with the root note (B), the major third (D#), the perfect fifth (F#), and the suspended fourth (A). The suspended fourth creates a sense of tension and anticipation, making the B7sus4 chord a popular choice for jazz, blues, and rock music.
Question 2: How do I play the B7sus4 chord on the guitar?
Answer: To play the B7sus4 chord on the guitar, place your index finger on the second fret of the first string, your middle finger on the second fret of the second string, your ring finger on the fourth fret of the fourth string, and your pinky finger on the fourth fret of the fifth string. Strum all six strings to produce the B7sus4 chord.
Question 3: What are some common uses of the B7sus4 chord in music?
Answer: The B7sus4 chord is commonly used in jazz, blues, and rock music. In jazz, it is often used as a substitute for the B7 chord, adding an open and spacious sound. In blues music, the B7sus4 chord is frequently employed as a turnaround chord, creating a sense of movement and flow. In rock music, it is commonly used as a power chord, delivering a strong and powerful sound.
Question 4: How does the B7sus4 chord differ from other seventh chords, such as the B7 or Bmaj7 chords?
Answer: The B7sus4 chord stands out from other seventh chords due to its suspended fourth. This suspended fourth creates a unique sound that distinguishes it from the B7 chord, which has a minor seventh, and the Bmaj7 chord, which has a major seventh.
Question 5: Are there any variations or voicings of the B7sus4 chord that I can explore?
Answer: Yes, there are various voicings of the B7sus4 chord that you can experiment with. These voicings involve playing the notes of the chord in different positions on the guitar neck. Some common voicings include open voicings, closed voicings, drop 2 voicings, and drop 3 voicings. Each voicing offers a unique tonal quality that can enhance your playing.
Question 6: How can I incorporate the B7sus4 chord into my guitar playing and songwriting?
Answer: Incorporating the B7sus4 chord into your guitar playing can add depth and interest to your music. Experiment with using it as a substitute for the B7 chord in jazz or blues progressions. Try it as a turnaround chord in blues songs to create a smooth transition between sections. In rock music, utilize the B7sus4 chord as a power chord to deliver a powerful and energetic sound.
Summary: The B7sus4 chord is a versatile and useful guitar chord with a distinctive sound. Understanding its construction, common uses, and variations will empower you to enhance your guitar playing and songwriting. Experiment with different voicings and applications of the B7sus4 chord to add depth and interest to your music.
Next section: Explore advanced techniques and applications of the B7sus4 chord to expand your musical horizons.
Tips for Mastering the B7sus4 Chord
Incorporating the B7sus4 chord into your guitar playing can enhance your musicality and expand your harmonic vocabulary. Here are a few tips to help you master this versatile chord:
Tip 1: Practice the Basic VoicingStart by practicing the standard fingering for the B7sus4 chord: 2-2-4-4 on the guitar strings. This voicing provides a solid foundation and allows for easy transitions to other chords.Tip 2: Explore Different VoicingsOnce you’re comfortable with the basic voicing, experiment with different ways to play the B7sus4 chord. Move the notes around the fretboard to create open voicings for a more spacious sound, or try closed voicings for a tighter, more focused tone.Tip 3: Use the Chord as a SubstituteThe B7sus4 chord can often be used as a substitute for the traditional B7 chord. This substitution adds a unique flavor to your progressions and can enhance the overall sound of your music.Tip 4: Experiment with InversionsInversions of the B7sus4 chord offer alternative ways to voice the chord. By inverting the intervals, you can create different melodic and harmonic effects. Experiment with inversions to add variety to your playing.Tip 5: Listen to ExamplesActively listen to how guitarists use the B7sus4 chord in various musical contexts. Pay attention to the voicing, timing, and overall effect of the chord. This will help you develop a better understanding of its practical application.Summary:By following these tips, you can develop a deeper understanding of the B7sus4 chord and its applications. Practice regula
rly, experiment with different voicings and techniques, and listen to how other guitarists use the chord to enhance their musicality. With dedication and practice, you’ll master the B7sus4 chord and expand your guitar playing capabilities.
Conclusion:The B7sus4 chord is a powerful tool that can add depth and complexity to your guitar playing. By understanding its construction, experimenting with different voicings, and exploring its various uses, you can unlock its full potential and elevate your musicality to new heights.
Conclusion
The guitar chord B7sus4, with its distinctive suspended fourth, offers a wealth of possibilities for guitarists. Its versatility and unique sound have made it a staple in jazz, blues, and rock music.
Throughout this exploration, we have delved into the construction, voicings, and applications of the B7sus4 chord. By understanding its theoretical underpinnings and experimenting with different techniques, guitarists can unlock the full potential of this chord and enhance their musical expression.
As we continue to explore the world of guitar chords, let the B7sus4 chord serve as a reminder of the power of musical experimentation and the endless possibilities that lie within the realm of guitar playing. Embrace its unique sound, explore its various uses, and let it inspire your own musical journey.
