How to Play Minor 7 Chords on the Guitar

Minor 7 chords are like the secret sauce that can add depth and emotion to your music. Whether you’re jamming with friends or writing a song, these chords can bring a touch of sophistication to your guitar playing. So, let’s get into how you can master these chords and make them a regular part of your guitar toolbox.

What Makes a Minor 7 Chord Special?

Alright, let’s break down what gives minor 7 chords their unique flavor. A minor 7 chord is essentially a minor chord with an added minor seventh. Sounds simple, right? But let’s dig a bit deeper. In terms of intervals, you have the root, a minor third, a perfect fifth, and a minor seventh. It’s like a minor chord that decided to wear a snazzy hat.

• Root: The foundation of the chord.
• Minor Third: Adds that signature “sad” sound.
• Perfect Fifth: Keeps everything grounded.
• Minor Seventh: Adds a jazzy, bluesy twist.

Once you grasp these components, you’ll notice how versatile minor 7 chords are. They fit nicely in jazz, blues, and even in metal subgenres, giving a new layer of emotion to your riffs and progressions.

Basic Shapes You Should Know

Getting your fingers around the basic shapes is a good starting point. Here are a few popular minor 7 chord shapes that you can try out:

Em7 Shape

E|-0-  
B|-0-  
G|-0-  
D|-0-  
A|-2-  
E|-0-

As you can see, this shape is actually quite simple and uses open strings to create that lush sound.

Am7 Shape

E|-0-  
B|-1-  
G|-0-  
D|-2-  
A|-0-  
E|-x-

This one is a bit more compact and sounds great in acoustic settings or when you want to add a bit of melancholy to your playing.

Barre Chord Variations

For those who want to take it up a notch, try the A minor 7 barre chord shape:

E|-5-  
B|-5-  
G|-5-  
D|-5-  
A|-7-  
E|-5-

Here, you’re barring all the strings at the fifth fret, which can be a bit challenging but totally worth the effort. This shape is movable, meaning you can slide it up and down the fretboard to get different minor 7 chords.

Integrating Minor 7 Chords into Metal

You might think, “Minor 7 chords in metal? Really?” Absolutely! While metal is often characterized by power chords and aggressive riffs, minor 7 chords can add an unexpected twist. Picture this: you’re playing a dark, heavy riff, and then you throw in an Em7. Instant mood change.

Examples in Metal

• Progressive Metal: These chords can offer a softer layer amidst complex time signatures and intricate solos.
• Black Metal: Adds depth and atmospheric quality to otherwise raw and brutal compositions.
• Djent: Perfect for creating dynamic shifts between aggressive chugs and ambient soundscapes.

Riffhard offers some excellent lessons on how to incorporate unconventional chords into your metal playing. You’ll find insights from top guitarists in the genre who do this masterfully.

Picking Techniques to Enhance Your Chords

How you pick can also influence how your minor 7 chords sound. Here are a few techniques to experiment with:

• Fingerpicking: This offers a softer, more intricate sound, perfect for acoustic settings or slower sections.
• Hybrid Picking: Mixes pick and fingers, allowing you to highlight certain notes within the chord.
• Palm Muting: Gives a percussive edge to your chords, especially when used sparingly in heavier sections.

For those who want to get into hybrid picking, Riffhard has some killer tutorials from guitarists who have mastered this technique. It’s a great way to add texture to your playing.

Chord Progressions That Use Minor 7 Chords

Now that you’ve got the shapes down, let’s look at how you can use them in progressions. Here are some examples:

Em7 – A7 – Dm7 – G7

This is a classic progression that works well in jazz and blues. It has a smooth, flowing quality that can serve as a great foundation for soloing.

Am7 – Dm7 – G7 – Cmaj7

Another classic, this progression is often heard in ballads and softer rock songs. It offers a nice ebb and flow, perfect for storytelling.

Feel free to mix and match these chords in your own playing. The beauty of minor 7 chords is their versatility, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

Adding Flavor with Alternate Tunings

Sometimes, switching up your tuning can breathe new life into your playing. Here’s how you can adapt minor 7 chords to alternate tunings:

Drop D Tuning

In Drop D, the low E string is tuned down a whole step to D. This allows for easy power chord shapes, and you can adapt minor 7 chords like this:

E|-0-  
B|-1-  
G|-0-  
D|-2-  
A|-0-  
D|-0-

This tuning is popular in genres like metalcore and djent, where the extra low end adds heaviness without sacrificing clarity.

Open D Tuning

Open D (DADF#AD) is another great tuning for exploring new chord voicings. Try this:

E|-0-  
B|-0-  
G|-0-  
D|-0-  
A|-4-  
D|-0-

This tuning is often used in folk and blues, but it can bring a fresh sound to metal compositions as well.

Overcoming Common Challenges

Learning new chords isn’t always smooth sailing. Here are some common issues and how to tackle them:

• Barre Chords: These can be tough on the hand. Try practicing them for short periods and gradually build up your strength.
• Finger Stretching: Minor 7 chords often require extending your fingers. Warm up with finger exercises to increase your reach.
• Chord Transitions: Moving between chords smoothly takes time. Slow down and practice transitioning to each chord cleanly.

Remember, patience is key. Every guitarist has been through these challenges, and with persistent practice, you’ll get there too. And if you’re looking for more guidance, the Shredule over at Riffhard provides a structured plan to help you tackle these challenges head-on.

Creative Applications: Writing Your Own Music

Once you’re comfortable with minor 7 chords, it’s time to put them to use in your own music. Here are a few creative ways to incorporate them:

• Verse Sections: Use minor 7 chords to add a moody undertone to your verses.
• Bridges: Introduce a minor 7 chord to create contrast and build tension leading into a chorus.
• Interludes: A minor 7 chord can serve as a perfect palate cleanser between heavy riffs or solos.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works for you. Music is about exploration, and minor 7 chords can be a powerful tool in your creative arsenal.

How to Practice Minor 7 Chords Effectively

Practice makes perfect, or at least pretty darn good. Here are some tips to help you practice minor 7 chords effectively:

• Slow and Steady: Start at a slow tempo to ensure each note rings out clearly.
• Use a Metronome: A metronome can keep you in time and help you gradually increase your speed.
• Focus on Transitions: Spend extra time on the tricky parts, like moving from one chord to another.

And for those looking to refine their skills further, Riffhard has a custom metronome designed for guitar practice, making it easier to nail those chord transitions.

Final Thoughts

Minor 7 chords offer a rich, nuanced sound that can elevate your guitar playing across genres, including metal. Whether you’re jamming or composing, these chords add a layer of sophistication to your music. For those eager to dive deeper, our lessons at Riffhard provide guidance from some of the best metal guitarists around, making the journey smoother and more rewarding.