How to play the D11 chord on guitar

The D11 chord, pronounced "D eleventh," is a rich and versatile guitar chord that adds depth and sophistication to various musical styles. Notable for its extended harmony, the D11 incorporates the 7th, 9th, and 11th notes of the D major scale. This complex chord is often used in jazz, funk, and R&B, and can be heard in songs like Steely Dan's "Peg."

The D11 chord is typically played as a barre chord on the 10th fret of the guitar.

Follow these finger positions to play a D11 chord on your guitar:

1. Place your index finger across all six strings at the 10th fret, creating a barre.
2. Place your middle finger on the 12th fret of the 4th (D) string.
3. Place your ring finger on the 12th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
4. Place your pinky finger on the 12th fret of the 2nd (B) string.

Strum all six strings together in a downward motion to play the D11 chord.

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the D11 chord, try playing a D major chord and adding your pinky finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st (high E) string. This version of D11 is called an "add 11" chord and requires less hand strength and precision than the barre chord version.

Playing the D11 chord as a barre chord can make it easier to transition to and from other barre chords, and can also produce a fuller sound.

Here's how to play a D11 barre chord:

1. Place your index finger across the 10th fret, covering all six strings (barre).
2. Place your middle finger on the 12th fret of the 4th (D) string.
3. Place your ring finger on the 12th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
4. Place your pinky finger on the 12th fret of the 2nd (B) string.
5. Strum from the 5th (A) string down.

The D11 chord is often used in progressions to add a jazzy, sophisticated flavor, creating a dreamy and contemplative emotional atmosphere. Common D11 chord progressions include:

• ii11 - V7 - Imaj7 (Dm11 - G7 - Cmaj7)
• Imaj7 - ii11 - V7 - Imaj7 (Cmaj7 - Dm11 - G7 - Cmaj7)
• vi11 - ii7 - V7 - Imaj7 (Am11 - Dm7 - G7 - Cmaj7)
• iii11 - vi7 - ii7 - V7 (Em11 - Am7 - Dm7 - G7). Used in "Autumn Leaves" and "My Funny Valentine".
• Imaj7 - iii11 - vi7 - ii7 - V7 (Cmaj7 - Em11 - Am7 - Dm7 - G7)

To master the D11 guitar chord, try playing the individual notes (D, A, C, E, G) one at a time, focusing on each string's clarity. Once comfortable, practice transitioning between D11 and other chords you know well.

Another effective drill is to play D11 in a chord progression or song you enjoy. This helps develop muscle memory and adds a musical context to your practice. Remember, consistent practice is key to mastering any chord! Keep at it, and soon you'll be playing D11 with ease.

Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the D11 chord.

1. All Along the Watchtower by The Jimi Hendrix Experience (Am, G, F, D11)
2. Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin (Am, G, D11, F)
3. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd (D, C, G, D11)
4. Little Wing by The Jimi Hendrix Experience (Em7, G, Am, D11, Bm)
5. Layla by Derek and the Dominos (Dm, Bb, C, D11, Am, G)
6. Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (G, D11, Am, C)
7. Wind Cries Mary by The Jimi Hendrix Experience (F#m, B, D11, E)
8. Bold as Love by The Jimi Hendrix Experience (G, Bm, D11, F#m)
9. Just Breathe by Pearl Jam (G, D11, Em, D)
10. Tangerine by Led Zeppelin (D11, G)