Bb Chords on Guitar: Every Type, With Diagrams
Bb and A# are the same pitch, so every shape here also plays A#. Bb has no open chord shape: play it as a barre chord at fret 6 on the low E string or fret 1 on the A string.
This page lists all 44 Bb chord types, grouped by family. Each one links to a page with fingering diagrams and the notes of the chord. New to diagrams? Learn how to read a chord diagram.
Looking for the other spelling? See all A# guitar chords.
Common Bb Chords: Notes and Formulas
Which Keys Use Bb Chords?
A chord sounds different depending on the key around it. The Bb major chord belongs to three major keys: Bb major (I), F major (IV), and Eb major (V). The Bbm chord belongs to Ab major (ii), F# major (iii), and Db major (vi).
To solo over these chords, start with the Bb major scale and the Bb minor scale. See every key in the guitar keys chart, or build a progression in the chord progression generator.
You can also see chords from other roots at these links below:
Bb Major Chords
These chords have a major third, so they sound bright and settled. Start with major and minor triads.
Bb Minor Chords
A minor third gives these chords their darker color. Compare them in major and minor triads.
Bb Dominant Chords
A major third plus a flat seventh creates tension that wants to resolve. Read dominant chords explained.
Bb Diminished Chords
Built on a flat fifth, these chords are tense and work well as passing chords. Read diminished and half-diminished chords.
Bb Augmented Chords
A raised fifth gives these chords an unresolved sound. For the symbols, see chord symbols and intervals.
Bb Suspended/Power Chords
These chords leave out the third, so they are neither major nor minor. Read suspended chords explained.
Download the free Guitar Chords Chart in PDF format.
Created by
Giancarlo is a musician (teaching guitar since 2000), software engineer, AI consultant and published researcher
FAQ
How many Bb chords are there on guitar?
This page lists 44 Bb chord types, from basic major and minor chords to extended and altered chords. Each type has its own page with several fingerings.
What notes are in the Bb chord?
Bb major has the notes Bb D F. Bb minor has the notes Bb Db F.
What is the difference between Bb and Bbm?
Only the third changes. Bb major uses D and Bb minor uses Db, which is one fret lower.
What key is the Bb chord in?
Bb major is the I chord in Bb major, the IV chord in F major and the V chord in Eb major. Bb minor is the ii chord in Ab major, the iii chord in F# major and the vi chord in Db major.
Is Bb the same as A# on guitar?
Yes. Bb and A# are the same note, so the chords sound the same and use the same fingerings. Only the name changes, depending on the key of the song.
