How to Play a C7sus4 Chord on Guitar – Easy C Dominant Seventh Suspended Fourth Guitar Chord
Welcome to this tutorial on the C 7sus4 chord. This chord belongs to the family of suspended chords, which are chords without the third. The C 7sus4 is composed of the notes C, F, G, and Bb. The intervals that build this chord are 1 (Root), 4 (Perfect Fourth), 5 (Perfect Fifth), and b7 (Minor Seventh).
The complete names of these music intervals can be found in our tutorial about fretboard intervals. This chord, like others, can be built by stacking these intervals, a concept you can learn more about in our guitar music theory tutorial.
In this tutorial, we will show you how to play the C 7sus4 chord using chord diagrams and fretboard patterns that highlight the tones composing the chord. If you're new to reading these, check out our tutorial on how to denote chords depending on the intervals that compose it.
The C 7sus4 chord is a bit more advanced than beginner chords, making it a great addition to your repertoire as you progress in your guitar journey. You can find more chords like this in our intermediate guitar chord tutorial.
Whether you're looking to enhance your rock, blues, or jazz progressions, the C 7sus4 chord can add a unique touch to your music. For more on chord progressions, check out our tutorials on 1-4-5 rock and blues chord progression and jazz chord progressions.
Ready to dive in? Let's get started on mastering the C 7sus4 chord!
C 7sus4 chord Notes:
Tones of the Dominant Seventh Suspended Fourth chord:
C Dominant Seventh Suspended Fourth Guitar Chord Diagrams
Chord boxes are sorted from the easiest to the hardest. Learn how to read chord diagrams.
If you have difficulties with bar chord shapes, check the Bar Chords Tips tutorial.
You can also use this accessible chords page with written diagrams instruction.
Position 1
Movable
Position 2
Barre
Movable
Position 3
Barre
Movable
You can find more shapes in our all guitar chords online library. If you
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FAQ
What are the specific notes and intervals that make up a C7sus4 chord?
The C7sus4 chord is composed of the notes C, F, G, and Bb. These notes correspond to the intervals of a 1 (Root), 4 (Perfect Fourth), 5 (Perfect Fifth), and b7 (Minor Seventh).
Why is the C7sus4 classified as a 'suspended' chord?
The C7sus4 is considered a suspended chord because it belongs to the family of chords that do not contain a third interval. Instead of a major or minor third, it features a perfect fourth.
What does the 'sus4' part of the C7sus4 chord name signify?
The 'sus4' in C7sus4 indicates that the chord is a seventh chord where the usual third interval has been replaced or 'suspended' by a perfect fourth. This replacement creates its distinctive sound.
In what musical styles or situations is the C7sus4 chord commonly used?
The C7sus4 chord can add a unique touch to your music and is commonly used to enhance rock, blues, and jazz progressions. Its distinct sound makes it versatile in various genres.
Is the C7sus4 considered a beginner or advanced chord for guitarists?
The C7sus4 chord is a bit more advanced than typical beginner chords. It's considered a great addition to your repertoire as you progress, making it suitable for intermediate guitarists.