What Are The Foundational Chords Every Guitarist Should Know?

Whether you’re a beginner picking up a guitar for the first time or a seasoned player looking to enhance your skills, understanding the foundational chords is essential for any guitarist. These chords lay the groundwork for playing a wide range of songs and provide the basis for more complex chord progressions. By mastering these chords, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a versatile and proficient guitarist. In this article, we’ll explore the must-know foundational chords that every guitarist should have in their repertoire. So, grab your guitar and let’s get started!

Introduction

What are foundational chords?

Foundational chords, also known as basic chords, are essential chord shapes that every guitarist should know. These chords serve as the building blocks for many songs and are crucial for developing a strong foundation in guitar playing. By learning and mastering these chords, you will have a solid understanding of the fundamental chord shapes, which will greatly enhance your ability to play a wide variety of songs and expand your musical repertoire.

Why are they important for guitarists?

Foundational chords are important for guitarists because they form the basis for countless songs in various genres. These chords are used in both rhythm and lead guitar playing, and having a solid understanding of them allows you to accompany yourself or others while playing guitar. Additionally, learning foundational chords helps develop finger strength, dexterity, and muscle memory, which are crucial skills for any guitarist. By mastering these chords, you will gain the confidence and ability to navigate the fretboard and unlock the potential for endless musical possibilities.

Open Chords

A Major

A Major is one of the most basic open chords and a foundation for many songs. To play the A Major chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the G string. Strum all the strings except for the low E string. This chord has a bright and uplifting sound and is often used in pop, rock, and folk music.

C Major

C Major is another essential open chord that is commonly used in various genres. To play the C Major chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string. Strum all the strings except for the low E string. This chord has a refreshing and versatile sound, making it a staple in many songs and chord progressions.

D Major

D Major is a versatile open chord that can be found in numerous songs across different genres. To play the D Major chord, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the high E string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string. Strum from the D string down to the high E string, excluding the low E string. This chord has a bright and joyful sound and is often used in pop, rock, and country music.

E Major

E Major is a foundational open chord that every guitarist should know. To play the E Major chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the G string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the D string. Strum all the strings, including the low E string. This chord has a bright and powerful sound and is commonly used in countless songs across various genres.

G Major

G Major is a widely used open chord and a staple in the guitarist’s repertoire. To play the G Major chord, place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string, your index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string. Strum from the low E string down to the high E string, excluding the fifth and sixth strings. This chord has a rich and vibrant sound that resonates well in many songs, from pop to rock to country.

Barre Chords

Major Barre Chords

Barre chords, also known as movable chords, are movable shapes that allow you to play chords in different positions on the neck of the guitar. The major barre chords are based on the E and A chord shapes and can be moved up and down the fretboard to play chords in different keys. By using the index finger as a “bar” across the fretboard, you can create major chords in any key.

To play a major barre chord, place your index finger across all the strings at a specific fret and use your other fingers to form the chord shape. For example, if you want to play an F major barre chord, place your index finger across all the strings at the first fret and use your other fingers to form an E major shape. Slide this shape up or down the neck to play different major chords.

Minor Barre Chords

Similar to major barre chords, minor barre chords are movable shapes that allow you to play minor chords in different positions on the neck. The minor barre chords are based on the minor open chords and can be moved up and down the fretboard to play chords in different keys. By using the index finger as a “bar” across the fretboard, you can create minor chords in any key.

To play a minor barre chord, place your index finger across all the strings at a specific fret and use your other fingers to form the minor chord shape. For example, if you want to play a B minor barre chord, place your index finger across all the strings at the 7th fret and use your other fingers to form the B minor shape. Slide this shape up or down the neck to play different minor chords.

Power Chords

Fifth Power Chords

Power chords are widely used in rock, metal, and punk music, and they create a powerful and aggressive sound. Also known as fifths, power chords consist of the root note and the fifth note of a chord, omitting the third note that determines whether it’s major or minor. The simplicity of power chords makes them easy to play and allows guitarists to achieve a heavy and distorted sound.

To play a fifth power chord, place your index finger on the root note of the chord, usually on the A string or low E string, and your ring finger or pinky finger two frets higher on the same string. For example, to play an A5 power chord, place your index finger on the 5th fret of the low E string and your ring finger on the 7th fret of the same string. This shape can be moved up and down the neck to play power chords in different keys.

Root-Fifth Power Chords

Root-fifth power chords are similar to fifth power chords but include the root note on the lower string as well. This adds more depth and richness to the sound of the chord. Root-fifth power chords are widely used in rock, punk, and metal music and provide a strong and aggressive tone.

To play a root-fifth power chord, place your index finger on the root note of the chord on the A string or low E string and your ring finger or pinky finger two frets higher on the D string. For example, to play an A power chord, place your index finger on the 5th fret of the low E string and your ring finger on the 7th fret of the D string. This shape can be moved up and down the neck to play power chords in different keys.

Octave Power Chords

Octave power chords are similar to power chords, but they include an additional higher octave note on the same string. This creates a fuller sound and can add more texture to your playing. Octave power chords are versatile and can be used in various genres, from rock to funk to alternative.

To play an octave power chord, place your index finger on the root note of the chord on the low E string, your ring finger or pinky finger on the same string two frets higher, and your middle or index finger on the higher octave note on the A string one or two frets lower. For example, to play an A octave power chord, place your index finger on the 5th fret of the low E string, your ring finger on the 7th fret of the same string, and your middle finger on the 7th fret of the A string. This shape can be moved up and down the neck to play octave power chords in different keys.

Dominant 7th Chords

A7

A7 is a common dominant 7th chord used in blues, rock, and jazz music. To play an A7 chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the G string. Strum all the strings except for the low E string. The dominant 7th chord adds a bluesy and jazzy flavor to your playing and is often used to create tension and resolve in chord progressions.

C7

C7 is another essential dominant 7th chord that is often used in blues, jazz, and funk music. To play a C7 chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your pinky finger on the 3rd fret of the A string. Strum all the strings except for the low E string. The C7 chord has a rich and sophisticated sound and can be used to add bluesy or jazzy elements to your playing.

D7

D7 is a versatile and commonly used dominant 7th chord in various genres, including blues, rock, and country. To play a D7 chord, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the high E string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string. Strum from the D string down to the high E string, excluding the low E string. The D7 chord provides a soulful and bluesy sound and can be used to add texture and depth to your chord progressions.

E7

E7 is a fundamental dominant 7th chord that is frequently used in blues, rock, and jazz music. To play an E7 chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the G string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the D string. Strum all the strings, including the low E string. The E7 chord has a classic and bluesy sound that adds character and flair to your playing.

G7

G7 is an important dominant 7th chord that is widely used in blues, jazz, and rock music. To play a G7 chord, place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string, your index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string. Strum from the low E string down to the high E string, excluding the fifth string. The G7 chord has a dominant and resolving sound that can add tension and interest to your chord progressions.

Minor 7th Chords

Am7

Am7 is a common minor 7th chord used in jazz, pop, and acoustic music. To play an Am7 chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the G string. Strum all the strings except for the low E string. The Am7 chord has a mellow and introspective sound that can create a melancholic atmosphere in your playing.

Cm7

Cm7 is another essential minor 7th chord that is frequently used in jazz, R&B, and soul music. To play a Cm7 chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 1st fret of the D string, and your pinky finger on the 3rd fret of the A string. Strum from the A string down to the high E string, excluding the low E string. The Cm7 chord has a smooth and soulful sound that can add depth and emotion to your chord progressions.

Dm7

Dm7 is a versatile minor 7th chord that can be used in various genres, including jazz, pop, and folk. To play a Dm7 chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the high E string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string. Strum from the D string down to the high E string, excluding the low E string. The Dm7 chord has a gentle and sentimental sound that can evoke a sense of nostalgia in your playing.

Em7

Em7 is a foundational minor 7th chord that every guitarist should know. To play an Em7 chord, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string. Strum all the strings, including the low E string. The Em7 chord has a melancholic and introspective sound that can add depth and emotion to your chord progressions.

Gm7

Gm7 is a commonly used minor 7th chord in jazz, funk, and soul music. To play a Gm7 chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the low E string, your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the B string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string. Strum from the low E string down to the high E string, excluding the A and D strings. The Gm7 chord has a moody and atmospheric sound that can bring a sense of sophistication and drama to your playing.

Major 7th Chords

AMaj7

AMaj7 is a beautiful and warm major 7th chord often used in jazz, pop, and R&B music. To play an AMaj7 chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the G string. Strum all the strings except for the low E string. The AMaj7 chord has a dreamy and romantic sound that can add elegance and sophistication to your chord progressions.

CMaj7

CMaj7 is another essential major 7th chord that is frequently used in jazz, pop, and acoustic music. To play a CMaj7 chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string. Strum from the A string down to the high E string, excluding the low E string. The CMaj7 chord has a bright and airy sound that can create a sense of joy and positivity in your playing.

DMaj7

DMaj7 is a versatile and widely used major 7th chord in various genres, including jazz, pop, and rock. To play a DMaj7 chord, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the high E string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the B string. Strum from the D string down to the high E string, excluding the low E string. The DMaj7 chord has a rich and vibrant sound that can add depth and complexity to your chord progressions.

EMaj7

EMaj7 is an important major 7th chord that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your playing. To play an EMaj7 chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the G string, your middle finger on the 1st fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the D string. Strum from the open E string down to the high E string, excluding the low A string. The EMaj7 chord has a bright and dreamy sound that can evoke a sense of wonder and beauty in your chord progressions.

GMaj7

GMaj7 is a commonly used major 7th chord in jazz, pop, and R&B music. To play a GMaj7 chord, place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string, your index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string. Strum from the low E string down to the high E string, excluding the fifth string. The GMaj7 chord has a rich and sophisticated sound that can add warmth and depth to your chord progressions.

Sus Chords

Asus2

Asus2 is a suspended chord that has a unique and mysterious sound. To play an Asus2 chord, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the B string. Strum all the strings except for the low E string. The Asus2 chord has a suspended and unresolved sound that can create tension and intrigue in your chord progressions.

Asus4

Asus4 is another suspended chord that adds a touch of tension and interest to your playing. To play an Asus4 chord, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string, and your pinky finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string. Strum all the strings except for the low E string. The Asus4 chord has a suspended and resolved sound that can bring a sense of resolution and release to your chord progressions.

Csus2

Csus2 is a versatile suspended chord that can be used in various genres, including pop, folk, and rock. To play a Csus2 chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the G string. Strum from the A string down to the high E string, excluding the low E string. The Csus2 chord has a dreamy and introspective sound that can evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia in your playing.

Csus4

Csus4 is another suspended chord that adds tension and interest to your chord progressions. To play a Csus4 chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string, and your pinky finger on the 3rd fret of the D string. Strum from the A string down to the high E string, excluding the low E string. The Csus4 chord has a suspended and resolved sound that can create a sense of resolution and release in your playing.

Dsus2

Dsus2 is a commonly used suspended chord that adds depth and texture to your playing. To play a Dsus2 chord, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the high E string, your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the B string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the G string. Strum from the D string down to the high E string, excluding the low E string. The Dsus2 chord has a suspended and unresolved sound that can create tension and intrigue in your chord progressions.

Dsus4

Dsus4 is another versatile suspended chord that can be used in various genres, including rock, folk, and pop. To play a Dsus4 chord, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the high E string, your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string, and your pinky finger on the 3rd fret of the G string. Strum from the D string down to the high E string, excluding the low E string. The Dsus4 chord has a suspended and resolved sound that can add tension and release to your chord progressions.

Esus2

Esus2 is a foundational suspended chord that every guitarist should know. To play an Esus2 chord, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, and your ring finger on the 4th fret of the A string. Strum from the low E string down to the high E string, excluding the fifth string. The Esus2 chord has a suspended and unresolved sound that can add depth and intrigue to your chord progressions.

Esus4

Esus4 is a commonly used suspended chord that can add tension and interest to your playing. To play an Esus4 chord, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the B string. Strum from the low E string down to the high E string, excluding the fifth string. The Esus4 chord has a suspended and resolved sound that can create a sense of resolution and release in your chord progressions.

Gsus2

Gsus2 is a versatile suspended chord that can be used in various genres, including rock, pop, and country. To play a Gsus2 chord, place your index finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string, your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the B string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string. Strum from the low E string down to the high E string, excluding the fifth string. The Gsus2 chord has a suspended and unresolved sound that can add depth and intrigue to your chord progressions.

Gsus4

Gsus4 is another frequently used suspended chord that can add tension and interest to your playing. To play a Gsus4 chord, place your index finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string, your ring finger on the 5th fret of the D string, and your pinky finger on the 5th fret of the G string. Strum from the low E string down to the high E string, excluding the fifth string. The Gsus4 chord has a suspended and resolved sound that can create a sense of resolution and release in your chord progressions.

Diminished and Augmented Chords

Diminished Chords

Diminished chords have a unique and tense sound that can add an element of complexity to your playing. Diminished chords consist of a root note, a minor third, and a diminished fifth. These chords are often used to create tension and dissonance in chord progressions, and they can be used in various genres, including jazz, classical, and metal.

To play a diminished chord, place your index finger on the root note, your middle finger one or two frets higher on the string above, and your ring finger one or two frets higher on the string below. For example, to play a Cdim chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the G string. Strum the three strings from the A string down to the high E string, excluding the low E string.

Augmented Chords

Augmented chords have a bright and tense sound that can add an element of excitement and uncertainty to your playing. Augmented chords consist of a root note, a major third, and an augmented fifth. These chords are often used to create tension and resolution in chord progressions, and they can be found in various genres, including jazz, pop, and classical.

To play an augmented chord, place your index finger on the root note, your middle finger two frets higher on the next string, and your ring finger one fret higher on the string below. For example, to play a Caug chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the G string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the D string. Strum the three strings from the A string down to the high E string, excluding the low E string.

Conclusion

Foundational chords are essential for every guitarist’s development. Whether you’re a beginner starting your musical journey or an experienced player looking to expand your chord vocabulary, these chords provide the foundation for countless songs and musical styles. From open chords to barre chords, from power chords to seventh chords, each category offers a distinct sound and character that can enhance your playing and musical expression.

By mastering these foundational chords, you will gain the confidence and versatility to tackle a wide variety of songs and chord progressions. Whether you’re strumming along with your favorite songs or writing your own compositions, these chords will serve as the backbone of your guitar playing. So grab your guitar, start practicing, and explore the exciting world of foundational chords. With dedication and practice, you’ll soon be playing your favorite songs and creating your own music with skill and creativity.