How to play the E minor over F# chord on guitar

The Em/F# chord, pronounced "E minor over F sharp," is a beautiful and melancholic voicing that adds depth to any composition. This chord is commonly used in genres such as folk, indie, and alternative rock. Notable songs featuring the Em/F# chord include "Wonderwall" by Oasis and "Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)" by Green Day. Its unique sound makes it a favorite among guitarists.

The most common way to play the E minor over F# chord on guitar is as a barre chord on the 2nd fret.

Follow these finger positions to play a E minor over F# chord on your guitar:

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

Strum all six strings together in a downward motion to play the E minor over F# chord. Make sure to apply even pressure with your index finger across the barre to ensure all notes ring out clearly.

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the E minor over F# chord, try this:

1. Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the low E string.
2. Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string.
3. Play only these two notes together for a simple yet effective E minor over F# chord.

The E minor over F# barre chord is a great alternative to the standard open E minor chord, allowing you to play the chord in different positions up and down the neck for a fuller, more versatile sound.

Here's how to play an E minor over F# barre chord:

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

The E minor over F# chord creates a haunting and melancholic sound when used in chord progressions, often evoking feelings of longing, sadness, or introspection. Here are some common chord progressions featuring this chord:

• i - VII - i (Em/F# - D - Em/F#)
• i - VII - VI - VII (Em/F# - D - C - D). Used in "Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin and "Wish You Were Here" by Pink Floyd.
• i - VII - iv - i (Em/F# - D - Am - Em/F#)
• i - VII - iv - VII (Em/F# - D - Am - D)
• i - VII - iv - VI (Em/F# - D - Am - C)

To master the E minor over F# guitar chord, try this simple drill: play each note of the chord individually, starting with the lowest note (F#) and ascending to the highest (B). Focus on playing each note cleanly and precisely. Once you feel comfortable, play the notes in reverse order, descending from B to F#.

Another effective drill is to play the chord as an arpeggio, plucking each note one at a time in a repeating pattern. Experiment with different rhythms and tempos to challenge yourself and develop your dexterity.

Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the E minor over F# chord.

1. Creep by Radiohead (G, B, C, Cm)
2. The Scientist by Coldplay (F, Am, Dm7, C)
3. Under the Bridge by Red Hot Chili Peppers (D, F#m, Am, Bm)
4. Hello by Adele (Fm, A♭, E♭, D♭)
5. Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin (Am, C, D, F, G)
6. Hotel California by Eagles (Bm, F#, A, E, G, D, Em)
7. Dust in the Wind by Kansas (Am, C, F, G)
8. Heart-Shaped Box by Nirvana (Em, C, G, D)
9. Zombie by The Cranberries (Em, C, G, D)
10. Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton (A, E, F#m, D, A/C#)