How to play the Bbmaj9 chord on guitar

The Bbmaj9 chord, pronounced B-flat major ninth, is a rich and complex harmony frequently used in jazz, R&B, and neo-soul music. This chord adds a dreamy, ethereal quality to progressions and can be heard in songs like "Neo Soul" by Musiq Soulchild and "Didn't Cha Know" by Erykah Badu. Its unique voicing and extended tones make it a favorite among guitarists seeking a sophisticated sound.

The standard way to play a Bbmaj9 chord on guitar is as a barre chord on the 6th fret.

Follow these finger positions to play a Bbmaj9 chord on your guitar:

1. Barre your index finger across all six strings on the 6th fret.
2. Place your middle finger on the 7th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
3. Place your ring finger on the 8th fret of the 5th (A) string.
4. Place your pinky finger on the 8th fret of the 4th (D) string.

To strum this chord, use your pick or thumb to strike all six strings in a downward motion, making sure each note rings out clearly.

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the Bbmaj9 chord, try playing a Bb major triad on the top three strings. Place your index finger on the 6th fret of the 1st (high E) string, middle finger on the 8th fret of the 2nd (B) string, and ring finger on the 8th fret of the 3rd (G) string.

The Bbmaj9 chord is typically played as an open chord, but learning the barre chord version can be useful for situations where you need to quickly transition to other chords or want a fuller, more consistent sound across all six strings.

Here's how to play a Bbmaj9 barre chord:

1. Place your index finger across all six strings at the 6th fret, creating a barre.
2. Place your middle finger on the 7th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
3. Place your ring finger on the 8th fret of the 5th (A) string.
4. Place your pinky finger on the 8th fret of the 4th (D) string.
5. Strum from the 6th (low E) string down to the 1st (high E) string.

The Bbmaj9 chord can be used in various chord progressions to create a dreamy, jazzy, or sophisticated atmosphere. Here are some common Bbmaj9 chord progressions:

• I - vi - ii - V (Bbmaj9 - Gm7 - Cm7 - F7)
• ii - V - I (Cm7 - F7 - Bbmaj9)
• I - IV - V (Bbmaj9 - Ebmaj9 - F7)
• iii - vi - ii - V (Dm7 - Gm7 - Cm7 - F7) Used in "Girl from Ipanema"
• I - iii - IV (Bbmaj9 - Dm7 - Ebmaj9)

To master the Bbmaj9 guitar chord, try this simple drill: play each note of the chord individually, starting with the lowest pitched string and moving to the highest. Focus on clarity and precision as you pluck each note: Bb, D, F, A, and C. Listen closely to ensure each note rings out distinctly.

Once comfortable playing the notes separately, practice strumming the chord. Begin with slow, steady strums, gradually increasing your speed while maintaining accuracy. Concentrate on keeping your hand positioned correctly and applying even pressure to all strings. With consistent practice, you'll soon master this beautiful chord.

Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the Bbmaj9 chord.

1. Isn't She Lovely by Stevie Wonder (Bbmaj9, Dm7, Eb7, Cm7, F7)
2. How Deep Is Your Love by Bee Gees (Bbmaj9, Gm7, Cm7, F7)
3. What's Going On by Marvin Gaye (Bbmaj9, Cm7, Dm7, Eb7)
4. Summer Soft by Stevie Wonder (Bbmaj9, Eb/G, Gm7, Dm7, Eb7)
5. This Masquerade by George Benson (Bbmaj9, Dm7, Eb7, Cm7, F7)
6. After the Love Has Gone by Earth, Wind & Fire (Bbmaj9, Eb/G, Gm7, Cm7, F7)
7. You Are the Sunshine of My Life by Stevie Wonder (Bbmaj9, Cm7, Dm7, Eb7)
8. Easy by Commodores (Bbmaj9, Cm7, Dm7, Eb7)
9. Sailing by Christopher Cross (Bbmaj9, Gm7, Cm7, F7)
10. Still by Commodores (Bbmaj9, Gm7, Cm7, F7)