How to play the Gsus4 chord on guitar

The Gsus4 chord, pronounced G suspended fourth, is a variation of the standard G chord that adds an air of tension and anticipation. Formed by replacing the third with the fourth scale degree, this chord is notably used in popular songs across various genres, from rock to folk. Its unique sound often serves as a transitional element, creating a sense of movement within chord progressions.

The most common way to play the Gsus4 chord on guitar is as a barre chord on the 3rd fret.

Follow these finger positions to play a Gsus4 chord on your guitar:

1. Place your index finger across all six strings on 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.

To strum the Gsus4 chord, use your pick or thumb to strum down across all six strings. Make sure to apply even pressure with your fretting hand to ensure all notes ring out clearly.

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the Gsus4 chord, try this:

1. Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the 6th (low E) string.
2. Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st (high E) string.
3. Strum all six strings.

This version is easier to play and requires less finger strength.

The Gsus4 barre chord is a great alternative to the standard Gsus4 chord, as it allows for greater flexibility and ease of movement up and down the fretboard.

Here's how to play a Gsus4 barre chord:

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. Strum from the 5th (A) string down to the 1st (high E) string.

The Gsus4 chord adds a sense of tension and anticipation to chord progressions, often creating a hopeful or uplifting emotional feel. Some common Gsus4 chord progressions include:

• I - Isus4 - I (G - Gsus4 - G)
• I - III - IV - Isus4 (G - B - C - Gsus4) Used in "More Than Words" by Extreme
• I - IV - Isus4 - IV (G - C - Gsus4 - C) Used in "Free Fallin'" by Tom Petty
• I - vi - IV - Isus4 (G - Em - C - Gsus4)
• I - Isus4 - IV - V (G - Gsus4 - C - D)

To master the Gsus4 chord, try strumming the chord and letting it ring out. Focus on achieving a clear, balanced sound across all strings. Practice transitioning smoothly between Gsus4 and other common chords like G, C, and D.

Another effective drill is to arpeggiate the Gsus4 chord, playing each note individually in ascending or descending order. This exercise helps develop finger independence and precision. Concentrate on maintaining consistent pressure and avoiding muted strings. With regular practice, you'll soon be playing the Gsus4 chord with confidence and ease!

Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the Gsus4 chord:

1. Wonderwall by Oasis (Em7, G, Dsus4, A7sus4, Cadd9)
2. Champagne Supernova by Oasis (Asus4, Gsus4, D, Dsus4, Em7)
3. Hey There Delilah by Plain White T's (D, F#m, Bm, Asus4, Gsus4)
4. 21 Guns by Green Day (Cm, Gsus4, G5)
5. Daughters by John Mayer (Gsus4, Cadd9, Am7)
6. If I Die Young by The Band Perry (Gsus4, Cadd9, Em7, D)
7. Red by Taylor Swift (C, D, Em, Gsus4)
8. God's Plan by Drake (Fm7, Gsus4, Am7)
9. The A Team by Ed Sheeran (D, Dsus4, Gsus4, Cadd9)
10. Castle on the Hill by Ed Sheeran (D, Gsus4, Bm, A)