How to play the F#7#9 chord on guitar

The F#7#9 chord, pronounced "F sharp dominant sharp ninth," is a unique and jazzy voicing that adds sophistication to progressions. Notable for its dissonant yet intriguing sound, the sharp ninth interval creates tension and release. Commonly used in jazz, blues, and funk, the F#7#9 can be heard in songs like Jimi Hendrix's "Purple Haze" and Steely Dan's "Josie," adding a touch of musical intrigue.

The F#7#9 chord is typically played as a barre chord on the 2nd fret of the guitar.

Follow these finger positions to play a F#7#9 chord on your guitar:

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

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

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the F#7#9 chord, try playing an F#7 chord instead. Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 6th (low E) string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd (G) string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 5th (A) string.

The F#7#9 chord can be challenging to play in its standard form, but luckily there is a convenient barre chord version that is easier to switch to from other barre chord shapes.

Here's how to play an F#7#9 barre chord:

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

The F#7#9 chord is a versatile and expressive chord that can add a sophisticated, jazzy, or even mysterious feel to chord progressions. It is often used as a passing chord or a substitution for the V7 chord in various keys. Here are some common chord progressions featuring the F#7#9 chord:

• I - VI - II - F#7#9 - I (C - Am - Dm - F#7#9 - C)
• I - IV - F#7#9 - I (C - F - F#7#9 - C)
• VI - F#7#9 - II - V (Am - F#7#9 - Dm - G)
• III - F#7#9 - VI - II - V (Em - F#7#9 - Am - Dm - G7)
• I - III - F#7#9 - VI (C - Em - F#7#9 - Am)

To master the F#7#9 chord, start by playing each note individually, focusing on clean execution. Once comfortable, play the notes in ascending and descending order, gradually increasing your speed.

Next, practice transitioning to and from the F#7#9 chord. Choose common chords like E, B, or C#m, and create simple progressions. Concentrate on smooth transitions between chords, ensuring each note rings clearly. With consistent practice, you'll develop muscle memory and fluency with this unique chord.

Here are 8 popular songs you can play with the F#7#9 chord.

1. Summertime by George Gershwin (F#7#9, Bmaj7, E9, Amaj7, G#m7, C#7, F#m7, B7, F#m)
2. This Masquerade by George Benson (F#7#9, B7sus4, Emaj7, C#m7, F#m7, B7, Emaj7, C#7)
3. Stardust by Hoagy Carmichael (F#7#9, B7, Emaj7, C#m7, F#m7, Bm7, E7, Amaj7, D7, Gmaj7, C7, F7, Bbmaj7, Eb7, Abmaj7, Db7)
4. Lush Life by Billy Strayhorn (F#7#9, B7, Emaj7, G#m7, C#7, F#m7, Bm7, E7, Amaj7, C#m7, F#7)
5. Naima by John Coltrane (F#7#9, Emaj7, F#m7, B7, Emaj7, C#m7, F#7, Bm7, E7, Amaj7)
6. Prelude to a Kiss by Duke Ellington (F#7#9, B7, Emaj7, C#m7, F#m7, Bm7, E7, Amaj7, D7, Gmaj7)
7. In a Sentimental Mood by Duke Ellington (F#7#9, B7, Emaj7, C#m7, F#m7, Bm7, E7, Amaj7)
8. Angel Eyes by Matt Dennis (F#7#9, B7, Emaj7, C#m7, F#m7, Bm7, E7, Amaj7, D7, Gmaj7, C7, Fmaj7, Bbmaj7, Ebmaj7)