How to play the E13 chord on guitar

The E13 chord, pronounced "E dominant thirteenth," is a sophisticated and jazzy variation of the E dominant seventh chord. Featuring an additional sixth and thirteenth note, this chord adds complexity and tension to progressions. The E13 is commonly used in jazz, blues, and funk music to create a rich, colorful harmony that can elevate a piece's emotional depth and musical interest.

The most popular way to play the E13 chord on guitar is as a barre chord on the 7th fret.

Follow these finger positions to play a E13 chord on your guitar:

1. Place your index finger on the 7th fret of the 1st (high E), 2nd (B), 3rd (G), 4th (D), 5th (A), and 6th (low E) strings as a barre.
2. Place your middle finger on the 8th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
3. Place your ring finger on the 9th fret of the 5th (A) string.
4. Place your pinky finger on the 9th fret of the 4th (D) string.

To strum this chord, use your pick or thumb to strum down across all six strings in one smooth motion.

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the E13 chord, try playing an E7 chord instead. An E7 chord is played by placing your first finger on the 1st fret of the G string, second finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, and third finger on the 2nd fret of the D string.

The E13 chord is typically played in an open position, but learning the barre chord version can be useful for playing higher up the neck or transitioning to other chords more easily.

Here's how to play a E13 bar chord:

1. Place your index finger across the 7th fret, covering all six strings (barre).
2. Place your middle finger on the 8th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
3. Place your ring finger on the 9th fret of the 5th (A) string.
4. Place your pinky finger on the 9th fret of the 4th (D) string.
5. Strum all six strings from low to high.

The E13 chord adds a jazzy, sophisticated flavor to chord progressions, often creating a sense of tension and release. Here are some common chord progressions featuring the E13 chord:

• I - ii7 - V13 - I (E - F#m7 - B13 - E)
• I - IV - V13 - IV (E - A - B13 - A)
• ii7 - V13 - I - vi (F#m7 - B13 - E - C#m)
• I - vi - ii7 - V13 (E - C#m - F#m7 - B13)
• iii7 - VI7 - ii7 - V13 (G#m7 - C#7 - F#m7 - B13) Used in "The Way You Look Tonight" and "Fly Me to the Moon"

Mastering the E13 chord on guitar can be challenging, but with focused practice, you'll soon be playing it with ease. One effective drill is to play each note of the chord individually, starting from the lowest string and working your way up. Listen carefully to each note and ensure it rings out clearly.

Another helpful exercise is to practice transitioning to and from the E13 chord. Choose a simple chord progression that includes E13, and play it slowly at first, gradually increasing your speed as you become more comfortable with the changes.

Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the E13 chord.

1. Superstition by Stevie Wonder (Cm7, Dm7, D#m7, E13)
2. What's Going On by Marvin Gaye (Fm7, Am7, Dm7, E13, G7)
3. Chameleon by Herbie Hancock (B7, E13, Bbm7)
4. Birdland by Weather Report (Bb7, Gm7, Cm7, F7, E13)
5. Spain (Chick Corea song) by Chick Corea (G, D, Em, F#m, E13)
6. Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin (Am, E, C, D, Fm, E13)
7. Sir Duke by Stevie Wonder (B7, E13, G#7, C#m7)
8. Oye Como Va by Santana (Am7, D9, E13)
9. Lowdown by Boz Scaggs (Dm7, G13, Gm7, C7, F7, E13)
10. Isn't She Lovely by Stevie Wonder (E13, C#m7, F#13, B13)