How to play the E major over D chord on guitar
Unlock the secrets of songs like "Hey Joe" and "Wish You Were Here."
The E major over D chord
The E chord, pronounced "E major over D," is a unique guitar voicing that adds depth and texture to progressions. This slash chord is played by fretting an E major shape while using D as the bass note. The E/D is notably used in genres like folk and country, and can be heard in songs such as "Hey Soul Sister" by Train.
There are many ways to play a chord. Here's a diagram for the most common E major over D chord. We've also included other versions below.
![E major over D guitar chord diagram](/_next/image?url=%2Fguitar%2Fchords%2FE_D.png&w=640&q=75)
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Finger placement for E major over D chord
The most common way to play an E major chord over a D chord on guitar is to use the second fret as a barre chord.
Follow these finger positions to play an E major over D chord on your guitar:
- Place your index finger across all six strings at the second fret, forming a barre.
- Place your ring finger on the fourth fret of the fourth (D) string.
- Place your pinky finger on the fourth fret of the third (G) string.
To strum this chord, use a downward motion starting from the sixth (low E) string and strum all six strings. Alternatively, you can focus on strumming only the highest four strings for a brighter sound.
How to play an easy E major over D chord on guitar
If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the E major over D chord, try this: Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, and ring finger on the 1st fret of the G string. Strum only these three strings.
How to play a E major over D bar chord
Playing the E major over D barre chord on guitar can be a great way to add variety and richness to your playing, especially when transitioning between chords.
Here's how to play an E major over D barre chord:
- Place your index finger across the 5th fret, covering all six strings.
- Place your ring finger on the 7th fret of the 4th (D) string.
- Place your pinky finger on the 7th fret of the 2nd (B) string.
- Strum from the 6th (low E) string down to the 1st (high E) string.
Common E major over D chord progressions
The E major chord played over a D root note creates a bright, hopeful sound that can evoke feelings of possibility, optimism and transcendence. Some common chord progressions featuring this technique include:
- I - V/ii (D - E/D): Used in "Hey Jude" by The Beatles
- vi - V/ii - IV - V (Bm - E/D - G - A): Used in "Shine" by Collective Soul
- I - V/ii - vi - IV (D - E/D - Bm - G): Used in "Where the Streets Have No Name" by U2
- ii - V/ii - I (Em - E/D - D): Used in "Life in a Northern Town" by The Dream Academy
- I - V/ii - iii - vi (D - E/D - F#m - Bm): Used in "The Scientist" by Coldplay
Drills to master the E major over D chord
To master the E major over D guitar chord, try playing the chord progression repeatedly, strumming each chord for four beats. Focus on smooth transitions between the chords and maintaining a steady rhythm. Aim for precision and clarity in your fretting hand.
Another effective drill is to arpeggiate the E major over D chord, playing each note individually in ascending and descending order (E, G#, B, E). This exercise helps develop finger dexterity and familiarity with the chord shape. Practice slowly at first, gradually increasing speed as you become more comfortable with the pattern.
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Songs that feature the E major over D chord
Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the E major over D chord:
- Knockin' on Heaven's Door by Bob Dylan (G, D, Am, E/D)
- Free Fallin' by Tom Petty (D, E/D, G, A)
- The Joker by Steve Miller Band (F, C, E/D, G)
- Peaceful Easy Feeling by Eagles (E, E/D, A, G)
- Breakdown by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers (D, E/D, G, A)
- Listen to the Music by The Doobie Brothers (D, E/D, G, Bm)
- Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffett (D, G, E/D, A)
- Wonderful Tonight by Eric Clapton (G, D/F#, C, D, E/D)
- Harvest Moon by Neil Young (D, D6, E/D, G)
- Behind Blue Eyes by The Who (E, E/D, A, C#m)
How a guitar teacher can help
If you feel stuck in your playing, it might help to take personalized guitar lessons with an expert guitarist. Taking lessons with a pro gives you access to the skills, feedback, and motivation to reach your goals.
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