How to play the A7sus4 chord on guitar

The A7sus4 chord, pronounced "A suspended fourth seventh," is a captivating variation of the A7 chord. By replacing the major third with a perfect fourth, the A7sus4 introduces an element of tension and ambiguity. This chord is commonly used in blues, rock, and folk music to create a sense of anticipation or resolution, making it a versatile tool in any guitarist's repertoire.

The A7sus4 chord is typically played as a first position chord on the guitar.

Follow these finger positions to play a A7sus4 chord on your guitar:

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

To strum this chord, use a pick or your thumb to play downstrokes or alternating down and up strokes across the middle four strings. Avoid playing the 1st (high E) and 6th (low E) strings for a cleaner sound.

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the A7sus4 chord, try this:

1. Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th (D) string.
2. Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd (G) string.
3. Leave the 1st (high E) and 2nd (B) strings open.
4. Strum only the top four strings.

The A7sus4 chord is most commonly played as an open chord, but learning the barre chord version can be useful for extending your fretboard range and adding variety to your playing.

Here's how to play an A7sus4 barre chord:

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

The A7sus4 chord is often used in progressions to add tension and a sense of movement, creating a bluesy or rootsy feel. Some common A7sus4 chord progressions include:

• I7sus4 - IV7 - I7 (A7sus4 - D7 - A7) Used in "Lay Down Sally" and "You Can't Always Get What You Want"
• I7sus4 - IV7 - V7 - IV7 (A7sus4 - D7 - E7 - D7)
• I7sus4 - IV7 - V7 - I7sus4 (A7sus4 - D7 - E7 - A7sus4)
• I7sus4 - IV7 - I7sus4 - V7 (A7sus4 - D7 - A7sus4 - E7)
• I7sus4 - bVII7 - IV7 - I7sus4 (A7sus4 - G7 - D7 - A7sus4)

To master the A7sus4 chord, try playing the individual notes (A, D, E, G) one at a time, focusing on clean execution. Once comfortable, practice transitioning between each note, gradually increasing your speed.

Another effective drill is to strum the chord and let it ring out. Listen closely to the sound, ensuring all notes are coming through clearly. Repeat this process, concentrating on consistent pressure and avoiding any muted or buzzing strings. With dedicated practice, you'll soon find yourself comfortably incorporating the A7sus4 chord into your playing.

Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the A7sus4 chord:

1. Knockin' on Heaven's Door by Bob Dylan (G, D, Am7, A7sus4)
2. Free Fallin' by Tom Petty (D, A, E7sus4, A7sus4)
3. Wonderwall by Oasis (Em7, G, D, A7sus4)
4. Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) by Green Day (G, C, D, A7sus4)
5. Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (Em7, G, D, A7sus4, C)
6. Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton (A, E, D, A7sus4, D7sus4)
7. Fast Car by Tracy Chapman (C, G, Em7, D, A7sus4)
8. Creep by Radiohead (G, B, C, Cm)
9. Hey There Delilah by Plain White T's (D, F#m7, A7sus4, Bm7)
10. Closing Time by Semisonic (G, D, Am7, C, A7sus4)