E Sus Guitar Chord Basics
The E Sus chord is a variation of the E chord and is commonly used in guitar playing. It is also known as the Esus chord. The chord is produced by suspending the third note of the E major chord and replacing it with the fourth note, resulting in the notes E, A, and B.
The E Sus chord is a suspended chord, which means that it does not have a major or minor tonality. It is a versatile chord that can be used in various musical genres, including rock, pop, and country.
To play the E Sus chord on the guitar, the player can use open strings in standard tuning. There are also several closed and barred chord shapes for the E Sus chord. The chord can be played in different positions on the guitar neck, depending on the desired sound and style.
The E Sus chord is often used in combination with other chords to create chord progressions. It can be used as a substitute for the E major chord or as a transitional chord between chords.
It is important to note that the E Sus chord is different from the E Sus2 chord, which is produced by suspending the second note of the E major scale. The E Sus2 chord contains the notes E, F#, and B.
In summary, the E Sus chord is a versatile and commonly used chord in guitar playing. It is produced by suspending the third note of the E major chord and replacing it with the fourth note. The chord can be played in various positions on the guitar neck and is often used in combination with other chords to create chord progressions.
Playing the E Sus Chord
To play the E Sus chord on guitar, start with a regular E major chord and lift your middle finger off the G string. This will make the G note open and create the E Sus chord. The E Sus chord contains the notes E, A, and B, and is often used as a substitute for the E major chord.
When strumming the E Sus chord, focus on hitting the open G string for a distinct sound. You can also experiment with different strumming patterns to add variety to your playing.
The E Sus chord is a suspended chord, which means it creates tension and wants to resolve to a major chord. In this case, the E Sus chord resolves to the E major chord.
There is also an E Sus 2 chord, which adds the second note of the E major scale (F#) to the E Sus chord. To play the E Sus 2 chord, lift your ring finger off the B string while keeping the G string open. This creates an E Sus 2 chord, which can be used as a substitute for the E major chord in certain situations.
Suspended chords, like the E Sus chord and E Sus 2 chord, are commonly used in a variety of instruments, including piano, violin, and bass. They add a unique sound to music and can be used to create tension and release.
When playing the E Sus chord or E Sus 2 chord, experiment with different finger positions and voicings to find the sound that works best for you. In standard tuning, there are many closed and bar chord shapes for the E Sus chord.
In melodic minor, the E Sus chord becomes E Sus4, which adds the fourth note of the E major scale (A) to the chord. To play the E Sus4 chord, lift your index finger off the E string while keeping the G string open.
Overall, the E Sus chord and E Sus 2 chord are versatile and useful chords that can add variety and tension to your playing.
E Sus Chord Progressions
The E sus chord is a versatile chord that can be used in a variety of chord progressions. Here are a few examples:
- E sus – A – B: This is a simple and common progression that can be heard in many songs. The E sus chord adds a bit of tension to the progression and creates a sense of anticipation for the A chord.
- E sus – E – A: This progression is commonly used in rock and pop music. The E sus chord adds a bit of color to the progression and makes it more interesting.
- E sus – F# minor – A: This is a more complex progression that uses the E sus chord as a passing chord. The F# minor chord adds a bit of melancholy to the progression, while the A chord provides a sense of resolution.
- E sus – G – A: This is another common progression that can be heard in many songs. The G chord adds a bit of tension to the progression, while the A chord provides a sense of resolution.
Overall, the E sus chord can be used in a variety of chord progressions to add color and tension. It is a versatile chord that can be used in many different genres of music.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the E sus chord is a versatile chord that can add a unique sound to your guitar playing. Whether you are playing in the key of E major or using the chord as a suspension, the E sus chord is a great addition to your guitar chord arsenal.
There are several ways to play the E sus chord, including open, closed, and bar chord shapes. You can use these shapes to create different voicings and add variety to your playing.
If you are looking to incorporate the E sus chord into your playing, you can download chord charts or use online resources to learn the different shapes and variations.
Overall, the E sus chord is a great chord to have in your toolbox. Whether you are playing in a band or jamming with friends, the E sus chord can add a unique sound to your playing and help you stand out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sus chord?
A sus chord, short for “suspended chord,” is a type of chord that replaces the third note of a major or minor chord with either the second (sus2) or fourth (sus4) note. This creates a unique sound that can add tension or a sense of movement to a song.
How do you play a sus chord on guitar?
To play a sus chord on guitar, you can use open strings or barre chords. For example, to play an E sus chord, you can play the open strings E, A, and B (or fret them on the 7th, 9th, and 7th frets respectively) or use a barre chord shape with the root note on the 7th fret.
What is the difference between sus2 and sus4 chords?
The difference between sus2 and sus4 chords is which note replaces the third note of the major or minor chord. Sus2 chords replace the third note with the second note, while sus4 chords replace the third note with the fourth note. This creates different tonal qualities and can be used to create different moods in a song.
What are some songs that use sus chords?
Many songs use sus chords, including “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses, “The One I Love” by R.E.M., and “Scar Tissue” by Red Hot Chili Peppers. Sus chords are often used in rock, pop, and folk music to create a sense of movement or tension.
Can you substitute a sus chord for a major or minor chord?
Yes, you can substitute a sus chord for a major or minor chord to create a different sound. However, it’s important to consider the context of the song and whether a sus chord fits with the overall sound and mood you’re trying to create.
How do you transition smoothly between sus chords and other chords?
To transition smoothly between sus chords and other chords, it’s important to practice changing chords slowly and deliberately. Pay attention to the finger placement and try to minimize any unnecessary movement. It can also be helpful to use chord progressions that naturally flow between sus chords and other chords, such as Am – Asus4 – Asus2 – Am.
