How to play the B9 chord on guitar

The B9 chord, pronounced "B dominant ninth," is a jazzy and sophisticated guitar chord. It adds a hint of tension and intrigue to the standard B dominant seventh chord by including the ninth scale degree. The B9 is commonly used in jazz, blues, and funk music to create smooth transitions between chords. Its rich, complex sound makes it a favorite among guitarists.

The B9 chord is typically played as a barre chord on the 7th fret of the guitar.

Follow these finger positions to play a B9 chord on your guitar:

1. Place your index finger on the 7th fret, barring all six strings.
2. Place your middle finger on the 8th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
3. Place your pinky finger on the 9th fret of the 2nd (B) string.
4. Place your ring finger on the 9th fret of the 1st (high E) string.

Strum all six strings together to play the B9 chord. You can use a downward stroke or alternate between downward and upward strokes for a more rhythmic feel.

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the B9 chord, try playing a three-note version:

1. Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th (A) string.
2. Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd (G) string.
3. Place your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the 1st (E) string.

Playing the B9 chord as a barre chord can make it easier to transition to and from other chords quickly, and can give the chord a fuller sound.

Here's how to play a B9 bar chord:

1. Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th (A), 4th (D), 3rd (G), 2nd (B), and 1st (E) strings.
2. Place your ring finger on the 4th fret of the 4th (D) string.
3. Place your pinky finger on the 4th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
4. Strum all six strings.

The B9 chord is often used to add a jazzy, sophisticated flavor to chord progressions, creating a sense of tension and resolution. Here are some common chord progressions featuring the B9 chord:

• ii-V-I: Cm7 - F7 - B9 (Used in "Girl from Ipanema" and "Fly Me to the Moon")
• I-vi-ii-V: B9 - G#m7 - C#m7 - F#7 (Used in "Autumn Leaves" and "My Romance")
• iii-vi-ii-V: D#m7 - G#m7 - C#m7 - F#7 - B9
• I-VI-ii-V: B9 - G#7 - C#m7 - F#7
• ii-V-I-IV: C#m7 - F#7 - B9 - E7

Mastering the B9 chord on guitar can be achieved through targeted drills. One effective exercise is to play each note of the chord individually, focusing on clarity and precision. Start with the root note B, then progress through D#, F#, A, and C#, ensuring each note rings out cleanly.

Another beneficial drill is to practice transitioning smoothly between the B9 chord and other common chords, such as E, A, and D. Begin slowly, concentrating on maintaining proper form and minimizing any buzzing or muted strings. Gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the transitions.

Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the B9 chord:

1. Hey Joe by Jimi Hendrix (C, G, D, A, E, B)
2. Wonderwall by Oasis (Em, G, D, A)
3. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd (D, C, G)
4. Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin (Am, C, D, F, G)
5. Free Fallin' by Tom Petty (D, A, G)
6. All Along the Watchtower by Bob Dylan (Am, G, F)
7. Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (G, D, Am, C)
8. Knockin' on Heaven's Door by Bob Dylan (G, D, Am)
9. Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton (A, E, D, C#m, B7, G#m)
10. Layla by Eric Clapton (Dm, Bb, C, F, Gm)