How to play the C major over G chord on guitar

The C chord, pronounced "C major over G," is a unique voicing that combines the bright, cheerful sound of a C major chord with the low, resonant bass note of a G. This chord is commonly used in rock, pop, and country music to add richness and depth to progressions. Notable songs featuring the C/G chord include "Let It Be" by The Beatles.

The most common way to play a C major over G chord on guitar is to use a barre chord shape on the 3rd fret.

Follow these finger positions to play a C major over G chord on your guitar:

1. Place your index finger across all six strings at the 3rd fret, forming a 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. Place your middle finger on the 4th fret of the 3rd (G) string.

To strum this chord, use a downward motion starting from the 5th (A) string, hitting all the strings down to the 1st (high E) string. You can also include upward strums for a fuller sound.

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the C major over G chord, try this:

1. Place your index finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st (high E) string.
2. Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th (A) string.
3. Strum only these two strings together.

This simplified version still captures the essence of the C major over G sound.

Playing a C major over G barre chord can be a great way to add variety and richness to your guitar playing, especially when transitioning between chords.

Here's how to play a C major over G barre chord:

1. Place your index finger across the 3rd fret, covering all six strings.
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 5th (A) string.
4. Place your pinky finger on the 5th fret of the 1st (high E) string.
5. Strum from the 5th (A) string down to the 1st (high E) string.

The C major chord played over a G bass note, known as a C/G chord, adds a sense of movement and tension to a progression. It's often used as a passing chord to connect other chords smoothly, creating a feeling of anticipation or temporary instability before resolving. Here are some common chord progressions featuring the C/G chord:

• I - V⁶/IV - IV - V (C - C/G - F - G) - Used in "Let It Be" by The Beatles and "Imagine" by John Lennon
• I - V⁶/IV - vi - V (C - C/G - Am - G)
• I - V⁶/IV - IV - V⁶ (C - C/G - F - D/F#)
• I - V⁶/IV - ii⁷ - V (C - C/G - Dm7 - G)
• I - iii - V⁶/IV - IV (C - Em - C/G - F)

To master the C major over G guitar chord, try this simple drill: play each note of the chord individually, starting with the G, then C, and finally E. Focus on clarity and precision as you pluck each string. Once comfortable, practice transitioning between the notes in different patterns, such as G-C-E, G-E-C, or C-E-G.

Another effective drill is to strum the chord repeatedly, concentrating on maintaining consistent pressure and positioning. Start with slow, deliberate strums and gradually increase your speed while ensuring each note rings out clearly. Regular practice will help develop muscle memory and fluidity.

Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the C major over G chord:

1. Hey Jude by The Beatles (G, D, F, C, Am)
2. Let It Be by The Beatles (C, G, Am, F)
3. Knockin' on Heaven's Door by Bob Dylan (G, D, Am7, C)
4. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd (D, C, G)
5. Peaceful Easy Feeling by Eagles (E, D, A, G, C)
6. The Joker by Steve Miller Band (F, C, G, D)
7. Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (G, D, Am, C)
8. Wonderwall by Oasis (Em, G, D, A7sus4)
9. Leaving on a Jet Plane by John Denver (G, C, D)
10. Viva la Vida by Coldplay (C, D, G, Em)