How to play the Amaj7#5 chord on guitar

The Amaj7#5 chord, pronounced "A major seven sharp five," is a unique and intriguing chord that adds a touch of tension to the standard major seventh sound. The sharp fifth note creates a sense of unresolved dissonance, making it a popular choice in jazz, fusion, and even some rock genres. This chord can be heard in songs like "Purple Haze" by Jimi Hendrix.

The Amaj7#5 chord is typically played starting on the 1st fret as a barre chord.

Follow these finger positions to play a Amaj7#5 chord on your guitar:

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

Strum all six strings together to play the Amaj7#5 chord. Make sure to apply enough pressure with your index finger to cleanly barre all the strings.

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the Amaj7#5 chord, try playing an A major chord and adding your pinky finger to the 2nd fret of the 1st (high E) string. This will give you a similar sound without the need for a barre chord.

Playing the Amaj7#5 chord as a barre chord can be a great way to add a unique voicing and fuller sound compared to the standard open chord version.

Here's how to play an Amaj7#5 barre chord:

1. Place your index finger across all six strings at the 5th fret to form the barre.
2. Place your middle finger on the 6th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
3. Place your ring finger on the 7th fret of the 5th (A) string.
4. Place your pinky finger on the 7th fret of the 4th (D) string.
5. Strum from the 5th (A) string down.

The Amaj7#5 chord, with its bright and hopeful sound, is often used in chord progressions to add a sense of uplift and resolution. These progressions can evoke feelings of joy, triumph, and positivity. Some common Amaj7#5 chord progressions include:

• I - IV - V - I (Amaj7#5 - Dmaj7 - E7 - Amaj7#5)
• ii - V - I (Bm7 - E7 - Amaj7#5) Used in "The Girl from Ipanema" and "Fly Me to the Moon"
• I - vi - ii - V (Amaj7#5 - F#m7 - Bm7 - E7)
• iii - vi - ii - V (C#m7 - F#m7 - Bm7 - E7)
• I - iii - IV - V (Amaj7#5 - C#m7 - Dmaj7 - E7)

To master the Amaj7#5 chord, start by playing each note individually, focusing on clean execution. Once comfortable, practice transitioning between the notes in different orders, such as A-C#-E#-G#, A-E#-G#-C#, and so on.

Next, work on strumming the chord repeatedly, maintaining a steady rhythm. Gradually increase your speed while ensuring each note rings out clearly. Incorporating this chord into progressions you already know is also beneficial. Keep practicing these drills regularly, and soon you'll be playing the Amaj7#5 chord with confidence!

Here are 5 popular songs you can play with the Amaj7#5 chord.

1. Creep by Radiohead (G, B, C, Cm)
2. Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin (Am, G, F, Dm, Am7, Dsus4)
3. Roundabout by Yes (Em7, Dmaj7, Cmaj7, F#m7, Amaj7#5, G, F#m, A)
4. Babe I'm Gonna Leave You by Led Zeppelin (Am, G, D/F#, F, E7)
5. Cry for You by Jodeci (G#m, C#m7, F#, Amaj7#5, Dmaj7#5)