How to play the Em6 chord on guitar

The Em6 chord, pronounced "E minor sixth," is a rich and melancholic chord that adds depth to many musical compositions. It is formed by adding a sixth note to the standard E minor triad, creating a more complex and expressive sound. The Em6 chord is commonly used in genres such as folk, jazz, and neo-soul, and can be heard in songs like "Lonely Boy" by The Black Keys.

The most common way to play the Em6 chord on guitar is as a barre chord on the 7th fret.

Follow these finger positions to play a Em6 chord on your guitar:

1. Place your index finger across all six strings at the 7th fret, forming a barre.
2. Place your middle finger on the 8th fret of the 2nd (B) string.
3. Place your ring finger on the 9th fret of the 4th (D) string.
4. Place your pinky finger on the 9th fret of the 3rd (G) string.

To strum this chord, use your pick or thumb to play all six strings together in a downward motion. Alternatively, you can use a combination of downward and upward strums for a more dynamic sound.

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the Em6 chord, try this:

1. Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th (D) string.
2. Place your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd (G) string.
3. Strum only the highest four strings (D, G, B, and high E).

The Em6 chord is most commonly played in an open position, but learning the barre chord version can be useful for playing in different positions on the fretboard or for transitioning to other barre chords.

Here's how to play an Em6 barre chord:

1. Place your index finger across the 7th fret, barring all six strings.
2. Place your middle finger on the 8th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
3. Place your ring finger on the 9th fret of the 5th (A) string.
4. Place your pinky finger on the 9th fret of the 4th (D) string.
5. Strum all six strings from the low E string down to the high E string.

The Em6 chord is often used in progressions that evoke a melancholic, introspective, or nostalgic feel. Here are some common Em6 chord progressions:

• i6 - iv - V7 (Em6 - Am - B7) - Used in "Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin
• i6 - VII - VI - VII (Em6 - D - C - D)
• i6 - VI - VII - i6 (Em6 - C - D - Em6)
• i6 - iv - VII (Em6 - Am - D)
• i6 - iv - v (Em6 - Am - Bm)

To master the Em6 chord, try strumming the chord slowly and consistently, focusing on clean, crisp notes. Practice transitioning to and from Em6, using common chord progressions like C - G - Em6 - Am. Repeat the transitions until they feel smooth and effortless.

Alternatively, arpeggiate the chord by plucking each note individually in ascending or descending order. This drill helps your fingers memorize the shape and improves dexterity. Gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the chord shape and fingering.

Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the Em6 chord.

1. Wonderwall by Oasis (Em7, G, D, A7sus4)
2. Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) by Green Day (G, C, D, Em)
3. Creep by Radiohead (G, B, C, Cm)
4. Dust in the Wind by Kansas (C, Am, Dm, G)
5. Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin (Am, C, D, F, G)
6. Heart of Gold by Neil Young (Em, C, D, G)
7. The Scientist by Coldplay (Em, C, G, D)
8. She Talks to Angels by The Black Crowes (E, D, A)
9. Who'll Stop the Rain by Creedence Clearwater Revival (D, A, E)
10. Under the Bridge by Red Hot Chili Peppers (E, B, C#m, G#, A, F#m)