A9 guitar chord
The A9 chord (A dominant 9th) is built from the notes A, C#, E, G and B, formula 1–3–5–b7–9.
- Notes
- A C# E G B
- Type
- dominant 9th
- Level
- Barre chord
OpenShape 1 of 4
x02423How to play A9
The easiest A9 shape is x02423, starting around fret 2. Mute any strings marked x so only chord tones sound.
Funky and full. Dominant 9ths are everywhere in funk, blues and soul.
Other ways to play it
Questions
What notes are in the A9 chord?
A9 contains A, C#, E, G and B. Its formula is 1–3–5–b7–9.
Is A9 hard to play on guitar?
It is harder than a basic open chord. The most common shape is x02423.
What can I play instead of A9?
A7 is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when A9 is too hard or too busy.