The E major 7 chord is a beautiful and versatile chord frequently used in jazz, pop, and many other genres. Its rich, sophisticated sound adds depth and color to any musical arrangement. This guide will explore everything you need to know about playing this chord on the guitar, including different voicings, inversions, and its role in music theory.
What is an E Major 7 Chord?
An E major 7 chord is built from the notes of the E major scale: E, F#, G#, A, B, C#, D#. A major 7th chord contains the root (E), major third (G#), perfect fifth (B), and major seventh (D#). This combination creates its characteristic warm and jazzy sound.
How to Play the E Major 7 Chord on Guitar: Basic Voicings
There are several ways to play an E major 7 chord on guitar, each with its own unique sound and feel. Here are a few common voicings:
Voicing 1: Open E Major 7
This voicing is relatively easy to play and sounds very full:
- 0 2 2 1 0 0 (6th string to 1st string)
This is an open voicing, meaning it utilizes open strings, providing a resonant tone.
Voicing 2: Close E Major 7 (First Inversion)
This voicing is often used in chord progressions, as it allows for smooth transitions to other chords:
- 2 0 1 0 2 0 (6th string to 1st string)
This voicing is in the first inversion, meaning the third (G#) is the lowest note.
Voicing 3: Another Common Voicing
This voicing is excellent for lead guitar work, offering a crisp and clear sound:
- 0 2 1 2 0 0 (6th string to 1st string)
This voicing prioritizes the root note (E) and is suitable for both rhythm and lead guitar.
Different Inversions of the E Major 7 Chord
Inversions change the order of the notes in the chord, altering the bass note. While the above voicings show different inversions, here's a deeper look at why inversions matter:
- Root Position: The root (E) is the lowest note.
- First Inversion: The major third (G#) is the lowest note.
- Second Inversion: The perfect fifth (B) is the lowest note.
- Third Inversion: The major seventh (D#) is the lowest note.
Experimenting with different inversions adds variety and interest to your playing.
What are the notes in an E Major 7 Chord?
The notes are E, G#, B, and D#. This is crucial for understanding the chord's construction and how it interacts with other chords.
How is an E Major 7 Chord used in music?
The E Major 7 chord finds its home in countless songs across genres. Its warm and sophisticated sound makes it a frequent choice in:
- Jazz Standards: It's a staple in many jazz compositions, often appearing in chord progressions along with other 7th chords.
- Pop Music: Used for creating a lush and romantic atmosphere.
- Bossa Nova: Its smooth character fits perfectly within the relaxed feel of this style.
E Major 7 Chord: Tips and Tricks
- Finger Strength: Practicing regularly will build the necessary finger strength to play these voicings cleanly and accurately.
- Chord Transitions: Practice smooth transitions between the E major 7 chord and other chords in common progressions.
- Listen to Music: Listen to songs that use the E major 7 chord to hear how it's used in different musical contexts.
Mastering the E major 7 chord is a rewarding experience for any guitarist. Its versatility and rich sound make it a valuable addition to your musical arsenal. Through consistent practice and exploration of different voicings and inversions, you'll unlock its full potential.
