How to play the G7#9 chord on guitar

The G7#9 chord, pronounced "G dominant sharp ninth," is a colorful and jazzy variation of the standard G7 chord. Featuring an additional sharp ninth note, this chord adds a touch of tension and sophistication to progressions. The G7#9 is often used in jazz, blues, and funk music to create a sense of intrigue and to spice up traditional chord sequences.

The most commonly played G7#9 chord shape on guitar is a barre chord at the 3rd fret.

Follow these finger positions to play a G7#9 chord on your guitar:

1. Barre your index finger across all six strings at the 3rd fret.
2. Place your middle finger on the 4th fret of the 4th (D) string.
3. Place your pinky finger on the 5th fret of the 2nd (B) string.

Strum all six strings together in a downward motion to play the G7#9 chord.

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the G7#9 chord, try this open chord shape: place your first finger on the 1st fret of the A string, second finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and third finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string. Strum the top four strings.

G7#9 is a less common chord, and I'm not extremely confident there is a widely used barre chord shape for it on guitar that would be suitable for beginners. The most popular voicings tend to be easier open chord shapes. While a barre chord version is theoretically possible, it would likely require more advanced fingering that isn't ideal for those just starting out. I'd recommend sticking with standard open G7#9 shapes while learning the basics.

The G7#9 chord adds a jazzy, sophisticated flavor to progressions, creating a sense of tension and intrigue. Some common chord progressions featuring the G7#9 chord include:

• ii-V7-I (Dm7-G7#9-Cmaj7) - Used in "Take the A Train" and "Fly Me to the Moon"
• I-vi-ii-V7 (Cmaj7-Am7-Dm7-G7#9) - Used in "Girl from Ipanema" and "Misty"
• iii-VI-ii-V7 (Em7-A7-Dm7-G7#9)
• vi-ii-V7-I (Am7-Dm7-G7#9-Cmaj7)
• I-IV-iii-vi-ii-V7 (Cmaj7-Fmaj7-Em7-Am7-Dm7-G7#9)

To master the G7#9 chord, try playing it in different progressions. Start with a simple ii-V-I progression in the key of C, using Dm7, G7#9, and CM7. Once comfortable, experiment with other progressions like the jazz standard "Autumn Leaves."

Another effective drill is to practice the chord in different rhythmic patterns. Begin with quarter notes, then progress to eighth notes, triplets, and more complex rhythms. This will help you develop muscle memory and make the chord feel more natural when playing songs.

Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the G7#9 chord.

1. Purple Haze by Jimi Hendrix (E7, G, A, D7, Em, G7#9)
2. Foxy Lady by Jimi Hendrix (F#m, D, E, G7#9, C#7)
3. The Wind Cries Mary by Jimi Hendrix (F#m7, B7, E, G#7, C#m, G7#9)
4. Little Wing by Jimi Hendrix (Em, G, Am, Em/B, Am/C, D7, G7#9)
5. Stone Free by Jimi Hendrix (E7, D7, A7, G7#9, C7)
6. Spanish Castle Magic by Jimi Hendrix (Em, D, C, B7, Am, G7#9)
7. Hey Joe by Jimi Hendrix (C, G, D, A7, E7, G7#9)
8. Manic Depression by Jimi Hendrix (E7, C#7, F#7, B7, G7#9)
9. Voodoo Child (Slight Return) by Jimi Hendrix (E7, D7, A7, G7#9)
10. If 6 Was 9 by Jimi Hendrix (Em7, A7, D7, G7#9, C7)