How to play the F#m6 chord on guitar

The F#m6 chord, pronounced "F sharp minor sixth," is a rich and expressive chord that adds a touch of melancholy to any musical composition. Notable for its haunting quality, the F#m6 is often used in genres such as jazz, neo-soul, and R&B. Its unique voicing, which includes the sixth note of the scale, creates a complex and emotionally evocative sound that captivates listeners.

The F#m6 chord is typically played as a barre chord on the 2nd fret of the guitar.

Follow these finger positions to play a F#m6 chord on your guitar:

1. Place your index finger across all six strings at the 2nd fret, creating a 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 4th (D) string.
4. Place your pinky finger on the 4th fret of the 2nd (B) string.

Strum all six strings together in a downward motion to play the F#m6 chord, ensuring that each string rings out clearly.

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the F#m6 chord, try this:

1. Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 6th (low E) string.
2. Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th (A) string.
3. Place your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th (D) string.
4. Leave the remaining strings open.

The F#m6 chord is typically played as an open chord, but learning the barre chord version can be useful for transitioning between chords or playing in different positions on the fretboard.

Here's how to play a F#m6 barre chord:

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

The F#m6 chord is often used in progressions that evoke a melancholic, introspective, or bittersweet emotional feel. Some common chord progressions featuring the F#m6 chord include:

• i - iv - i - iv (F#m6 - Bm6 - F#m6 - Bm6)
• i - VII - iv - iv (F#m6 - Emaj7 - Bm6 - Bm6) Used in "Diamonds and Rust" by Joan Baez
• i - VII - III - iv (F#m6 - Emaj7 - Amaj7 - Bm6)
• i - v - i - VII (F#m6 - C#m7 - F#m6 - Emaj7)
• i - III - VII - i (F#m6 - Amaj7 - Emaj7 - F#m6)

Mastering the F#m6 chord requires practice and dedication. One effective drill is to strum the chord repeatedly, focusing on clarity and precision. Start slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the chord shape.

Another helpful exercise is to transition smoothly between F#m6 and other common chords, such as D and A. Practice switching back and forth between these chords, maintaining a steady rhythm. This drill will improve your muscle memory and help you incorporate F#m6 into your playing more seamlessly.

Here are 5 popular songs you can play with the F#m6 chord.

1. All of Me by John Legend (G, Em, C, D, Am, Bm, F#m6)
2. Creep by Radiohead (G, B, C, Cm, F#m6)
3. New York State of Mind by Billy Joel (C, F, F#m6, Am7, Dm7, G7, E7, A)
4. Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton (A, E, F#m6, D, A/C#, Bm7)
5. My Immortal by Evanescence (A, E, F#m6, D, C#m7)