How to play the Gsus2 chord on guitar

The Gsus2 chord, pronounced G suspended second, is a variation of the G major chord that adds a sense of tension and ambiguity. Formed by replacing the third note with the second, this chord is commonly used in rock, folk, and country music to create a unique sound. Notable songs featuring the Gsus2 include "Dust in the Wind" by Kansas and "Wonderwall" by Oasis.

The most common way to play the Gsus2 chord on guitar is as a barre chord on the 3rd fret.

Follow these finger positions to play a Gsus2 chord on your guitar:

1. Place your index finger across all six strings at the 3rd fret, forming a barre.
2. Place your middle finger on the 5th fret of the 4th (D) string.
3. Place your ring finger on the 5th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
4. Place your pinky finger on the 5th fret of the 2nd (B) string.

To strum this chord, use your pick or thumb to play 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 Gsus2 chord, try playing it as an open chord:

1. Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st (high E) string.
2. Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 6th (low E) string.
3. Leave the remaining strings open and strum all six strings.

The Gsus2 chord is typically played as an open chord, but there is a barre chord version that can be useful for transitions or to get a different voicing. Here's how to play a Gsus2 barre chord:

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

The Gsus2 chord is often used in progressions to add a sense of tension and resolution, creating a dreamy and slightly melancholic emotional feel. Here are some common Gsus2 chord progressions:

• I - Isus2 - I - Isus2 (G - Gsus2 - G - Gsus2)
• I - IV - Isus2 - IV (G - C - Gsus2 - C)
• I - Isus2 - vi - IV (G - Gsus2 - Em - C)
• I - Isus2 - iii - IV (G - Gsus2 - Bm - C) Used in "Wonderwall" by Oasis
• I - Isus2 - IV - V (G - Gsus2 - C - D)

To master the Gsus2 chord, try strumming the chord and letting it ring out. Focus on achieving a clear, balanced sound across all three strings. Practice transitioning smoothly between Gsus2 and other chords you know, such as G, C, and D.

Another effective drill is to play a simple progression using Gsus2, like Gsus2 - C - G. This helps develop muscle memory and trains your fingers to switch between chords fluidly. Aim for consistent timing and clean transitions. With practice, you'll be playing the Gsus2 chord confidently in no time!

Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the Gsus2 chord.

1. Hey Joe by Jimi Hendrix (C, G, D, A, E)
2. Creep by Radiohead (G, B, C, Cm)
3. Wonderwall by Oasis (Em, G, D, A7sus4)
4. Ring of Fire by Johnny Cash (G, C, D)
5. Free Fallin' by Tom Petty (D, G, A, Asus4)
6. Zombie by The Cranberries (Em, C, G, D/F#)
7. Breakeven by The Script (Am, C, G, F)
8. Love Story by Taylor Swift (G, Am, C, D)
9. Riptide by Vance Joy (Am, G, C)
10. Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran (D, A, Bm, G)