B Dominant Seventh Suspended Fourth (B7sus4) chords on guitar
Welcome to our tutorial on the intriguing B 7sus4 chord. This chord, as part of the suspended chord family, has a unique sound due to the absence of the third interval. Composed of the notes B, E, F#, and A, the B 7sus4 chord is built from a specific set of intervals: 1 (Root), 4 (Perfect Fourth), 5 (Perfect Fifth), and b7 (Minor Seventh).
Understanding these fretboard intervals and how they stack together to form this chord is crucial. If you're new to this concept, we recommend checking out our tutorial on building chords by stacking intervals.
The B 7sus4 chord is not just a random collection of notes. It's a carefully constructed sonic structure that has been used in countless pieces of music. It's a chord that offers a distinctive tension and release, often used in genres like jazz and blues. If you're interested in how this chord fits into larger progressions, our tutorial on common chord progressions is a great resource.
In this tutorial, we will provide you with detailed chord diagrams and fretboard patterns that clearly show the tones composing the B 7sus4 chord. For those of you who are more advanced, we also delve into chord inversions, offering new ways to play and understand this versatile chord.
By the end of this tutorial, you'll have a deep understanding of the B 7sus4 chord, and be able to incorporate it into your own music with confidence. So grab your guitar and let's dive in!
Notes in the B 7sus4 chord:
Chord structure of the Dominant Seventh Suspended Fourth chord:
B7sus4 Guitar Chord Shapes
Chord boxes are sorted from the easiest to the hardest. Learn how to read chord diagrams.
If you have difficulties with bar chord shapes, check the Bar Chords Tips tutorial.
You can also use this accessible chords page with written diagrams instruction.
Position 1
Open
Position 2
Barre
Movable
Position 3
Barre
Movable
You can find more shapes in our all guitar chords online library. If you
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FAQ
What makes the B 7sus4 chord sound unique compared to other chords?
The B 7sus4 chord possesses a unique sound primarily because it omits the typical third interval (major or minor). Instead, it incorporates a Perfect Fourth, which creates a distinctive tension and a sense of awaiting resolution.
What does 'suspended' signify in the B 7sus4 chord name?
The term 'suspended' in B 7sus4 indicates that the chord's defining third interval has been replaced by a Perfect Fourth. This substitution removes the major or minor quality and creates an unresolved, 'suspended' harmonic feeling.
How are the notes B, E, F#, and A used to build the B 7sus4 chord?
The notes B, E, F#, and A are the precise components of the B 7sus4 chord, corresponding to specific intervals. B is the Root (1), E is the Perfect Fourth (4), F# is the Perfect Fifth (5), and A is the Minor Seventh (b7). These intervals are stacked to form the chord.
When is the B 7sus4 chord typically used in music?
The B 7sus4 chord is often used to introduce a distinctive tension that ultimately seeks release into another chord. Its unique sonic quality makes it a common choice in genres such as jazz and blues, where it adds depth and harmonic interest.
What is the benefit of learning chord inversions for the B 7sus4?
Learning chord inversions for the B 7sus4 allows you to discover various ways to play the chord across the fretboard. This provides a deeper understanding of its structure, versatility, and enables you to use different voicings for varied musical textures.
Is the B 7sus4 chord considered a power chord?
Yes, the tutorial identifies the B 7sus4 as a 'Suspended/Power chord'. While it includes additional notes beyond the typical root and fifth of a basic power chord, its robust sound and lack of a definitive major or minor third contribute to this classification.