How to Play 7th Chords on the Guitar

Ever found yourself jamming out on the guitar and wondered how to spice up those basic chord progressions? Enter 7th chords. These little gems can add depth and color to your music, making it sound more polished and expressive. Whether you're into jazz, blues, rock, or even metal, 7th chords have a place in your repertoire. In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about playing 7th chords on the guitar, offering tips, tricks, and some relatable examples to get you rolling.

Understanding 7th Chords

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of playing them, let's talk about what 7th chords actually are. In music theory, a 7th chord is simply a triad (think your basic major or minor chord) with an added 7th note. This addition creates a richer, more complex sound. There are several types of 7th chords, but the four main ones you'll encounter are major, minor, dominant, and diminished 7th chords.

• Major 7th (Maj7): This chord adds a major 7th interval to a major triad, giving it a jazzy, smooth vibe.
• Minor 7th (m7): Here, a minor 7th is added to a minor triad, resulting in a sound that feels a bit melancholic yet rich.
• Dominant 7th (7): This combines a major triad with a minor 7th, often used in blues and rock for its distinctive tension and resolution.
• Diminished 7th (dim7): This one stacks a diminished triad with a diminished 7th, producing a tense, eerie sound often used in classical and jazz.

Understanding these basic definitions sets a solid foundation for actually playing them on the guitar. Once you grasp the theory, you'll find it much easier to apply these chords in your music.

Basic Fingerings for 7th Chords

Let's translate that theory into practice with some basic fingerings. You'll want to get comfortable with these shapes, as they're the building blocks for more complex chords and progressions.

Major 7th Chords

For a Cmaj7, place your index finger on the 3rd fret of the A string (C), middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (E), ring finger on the 4th fret of the G string (B), and pinky on the 3rd fret of the B string (E). Strum from the A string down, and you've got yourself a Cmaj7.

Minor 7th Chords

Take an Am7 for example: Put your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string (C), middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (E), and strum from the A string. Notice the softness and subtlety in the sound? That's what makes minor 7th chords so evocative.

Dominant 7th Chords

Let's use the G7 as an example. Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the high E string (F), middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string (B), and ring finger on the 3rd fret of the E string (G). Strum all strings for that classic, bluesy vibe.

Diminished 7th Chords

For a Bdim7, put your index finger on the 1st fret of the D string (B), middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string (C), ring finger on the 1st fret of the G string (E), and pinky on the 2nd fret of the B string (G#). This chord creates a hauntingly beautiful sound.

Practice these shapes until they become second nature. You can use them in countless songs and progressions, and they will significantly enhance your playing.

Incorporating 7th Chords into Your Playing

Alright, you've got the theory and the fingerings down. Now, how do you actually use these chords in your music? Well, 7th chords can serve various functions, from adding depth to a simple progression to creating tension and resolution.

Spicing Up Simple Progressions

Imagine you're playing a simple I-IV-V progression in C (C-F-G). By substituting the C and G chords with Cmaj7 and G7, you add a new layer of complexity and interest to the progression. It's like going from a basic vanilla ice cream to a full-blown sundae.

Creating Tension and Resolution

Dominant 7th chords are fantastic for creating tension that resolves beautifully to a tonic chord. For instance, in a blues progression, a G7 chord naturally resolves to a C chord, giving your music a satisfying sense of closure.

Crafting Unique Sounds

Want a sound that's a bit off the beaten path? Try out diminished 7th chords. They're great for transitioning between keys or creating an eerie atmosphere. They're particularly useful in metal and progressive genres, where you might want to break away from traditional chord structures.

By experimenting with these chords, you'll discover new textures and moods in your music. Don't be afraid to mix and match different types of 7th chords to find what works for you.

7th Chords in Metal and Alternative Genres

When it comes to metal and alternative genres, 7th chords might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, they can be incredibly effective in adding depth and complexity to your riffs and progressions.

Using 7th Chords to Add Complexity

In metal, where speed and aggression often take the forefront, throwing in a 7th chord can create a striking contrast. For example, imagine a heavy, distorted riff that's suddenly interspersed with a clean, jazzy Cmaj7. The juxtaposition can catch the listener off guard and make the riff more memorable.

Creating Atmosphere and Mood

Metal and alternative music often aim to evoke specific moods or atmospheres. Minor 7th and diminished 7th chords can add an eerie, melancholic, or even haunting quality to a song. They're perfect for intros or bridges where you want to set a particular tone before diving back into heavier sections.

Building Transitions

Transitions are crucial in metal, especially in progressive subgenres where songs often change tempo or key. 7th chords can serve as the perfect bridge between different sections, providing a smooth yet unexpected shift that keeps the listener engaged.

For those looking to deepen their metal guitar skills, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the genre's top players, focusing on these techniques and more.

Practicing 7th Chords Efficiently

So how do you practice these chords to ensure they become a seamless part of your playing? Here are some tips to incorporate them into your routine:

• Slow and Steady: Start by practicing each chord slowly. Ensure each note rings clearly before speeding up.
• Use a Metronome: Gradually increase your speed while maintaining clarity. A metronome can help you keep a steady tempo.
• Chord Progressions: Practice transitioning between different 7th chords in common progressions to improve your fluidity.
• Incorporate Into Songs: Try substituting 7th chords into songs you already know. This will help you see where they fit naturally.

Practicing with intent is crucial. As you become more comfortable, you'll find yourself incorporating these chords intuitively. And for those looking for structured practice routines, our schedule at Riffhard offers curated lessons to help you progress efficiently.

Exploring Advanced Techniques with 7th Chords

Once you're comfortable with basic 7th chords, it's time to explore some advanced techniques that can take your playing to the next level.

Chord Inversions

Inversions involve changing the order of the notes in a chord. For instance, in a Cmaj7 chord, instead of playing C-E-G-B, you might play E-G-B-C. This can produce a different sound and feel, adding variety to your chord progressions.

Extended Chords

Don't stop at the 7th! You can extend chords even further, adding 9ths, 11ths, or 13ths. This approach is especially useful in jazz and fusion genres, where complex harmonies are prevalent.

Hybrid Picking

Hybrid picking involves using both your pick and fingers to pluck the strings. This technique can be particularly effective when playing 7th chords as it allows for greater control and dynamics, especially in intricate fingerstyle passages.

Exploring these techniques can deepen your understanding of music theory and open up new creative possibilities. If you're eager to learn from the pros, check out our lessons at Riffhard, where top metal guitarists share their insights and techniques.

Common Mistakes When Playing 7th Chords

Even seasoned guitarists can fall into common traps when playing 7th chords. Let's look at some pitfalls to avoid:

Not Allowing Strings to Ring Clearly

Beginners often struggle with ensuring each note of the chord rings clearly. Take your time to adjust your finger placement and pressure to avoid muted or buzzing strings.

Ignoring Theory

Understanding the theory behind 7th chords is crucial for using them effectively. Without this knowledge, you might find yourself randomly throwing in chords without understanding their function.

Overusing 7th Chords

While 7th chords can add depth to your music, overusing them can make your playing sound cluttered and overcomplicated. Use them strategically to enhance your music without overwhelming it.

By being mindful of these common mistakes, you can improve your playing and make the most of 7th chords in your music.

Conclusion: The Power of 7th Chords

Final Thoughts: 7th chords can transform your playing, adding depth and complexity to your music. Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or just starting, exploring these chords will enhance your musical expression. We've got some great lessons at Riffhard that focus on modern metal genres, taught by some of the world's best guitarists. Dive in and see how these chords can elevate your playing.