How to play the Dsus4 chord on guitar

The Dsus4 chord, pronounced D suspended fourth, is a versatile guitar chord that adds a sense of tension and anticipation to progressions. Notable for its omission of the third, the Dsus4 is neither major nor minor. Commonly used in folk, rock, and country music, it can be heard in songs like "Wonderwall" by Oasis and "Free Fallin'" by Tom Petty.

The most common way to play the Dsus4 chord on guitar is as a barre chord on the 5th fret.

Follow these finger positions to play a Dsus4 chord on your guitar:

1. Barre your index finger across the 5th fret, covering all six strings.
2. Place your middle finger on the 7th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
3. Place your ring finger on the 7th fret of the 2nd (B) string.
4. Place your pinky finger on the 7th fret of the 1st (high E) string.

To strum this chord, use your pick or thumb to strike all six strings in a downward motion, starting from the 6th (low E) string and moving towards the 1st (high E) string.

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the Dsus4 chord, try playing an open Dsus4 chord instead. Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the high E string, your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the B string, and strum the top four strings (D, G, B, and high E).

Playing a Dsus4 as a barre chord allows you to easily transition between other chords in a similar position, and gives your guitar a full, rich sound.

Here's how to play a Dsus4 bar chord:

1. Place your index finger across the first five strings on the 5th fret, creating a barre.
2. Place your ring finger on the 7th fret of the 4th (D) string.
3. Place your pinky finger on the 7th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
4. Strum down from the 5th (A) string.

The Dsus4 chord is often used in progressions to add tension and create a sense of anticipation or longing. These progressions can evoke emotions ranging from melancholic to hopeful. Here are some common Dsus4 chord progressions:

• I - Isus4 - I (D - Dsus4 - D)
• I - IV - Isus4 - I (D - G - Dsus4 - D)
• I - Isus4 - IV - I (D - Dsus4 - G - D)
• I - Isus4 - vi - IV (D - Dsus4 - Bm - G) Used in "Wonderwall" by Oasis
• I - V - Isus4 - IV (D - A - Dsus4 - G)

To master the Dsus4 chord, try playing it in a steady rhythm, strumming down and up while maintaining your fingering. Focus on keeping the pressure even on all three strings.

Another effective drill is to transition smoothly between Dsus4 and other chords like D major or A major. Practice switching back and forth, ensuring each chord rings out clearly. Gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the changes.

Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the Dsus4 chord:

1. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd (D, Dsus4, C, G)
2. When I Come Around by Green Day (D, Dsus4, Asus2, Bm, G)
3. With or Without You by U2 (D, A, Bm, G, Dsus4)
4. Zombie by The Cranberries (Em, Cmaj7, G, Dsus4)
5. Under the Bridge by Red Hot Chili Peppers (D, Dsus4, F#m, G, A, Bm)
6. I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For by U2 (D, G, A, Dsus4, Bm)
7. Hemorrhage (In My Hands) by Fuel (D, Dsus4, C, G)
8. All I Want by Toad the Wet Sprocket (D, Dsus4, Bm, G, A)
9. Only Wanna Be With You by Hootie & The Blowfish (D, Dsus4, G, A)
10. Everlong by Foo Fighters (D, Dsus4, Bm, G)