C#m7 guitar chord

The C#m7 chord (C# minor 7th) is built from the notes C#, E, G# and B, formula 1–b3–5–b7. It appears in B major (as ii7), A major (as iii7) and E major (as vi7).

Notes
C# E G# B
Type
minor 7th
Level
Barre chord
Barre · fret 4Shape 1 of 3
4×132C#G#BEG#
x46454

How to play C#m7

The usual C#m7 shape is a barre chord: your index finger presses fret 4 across several strings (x46454). Barre chords take practice, so start by getting each string to ring clearly before worrying about speed.

Mellow and smooth, common in soul, R&B, jazz and laid-back pop.

Other ways to play it

Questions

What notes are in the C#m7 chord?

C#m7 contains C#, E, G# and B. Its formula is 1–b3–5–b7.

Is C#m7 hard to play on guitar?

It is harder than a basic open chord. The most common shape is x46454. A shortcut: put a capo on fret 4 and play an open Am7 shape.

What can I play instead of C#m7?

C#m is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when C#m7 is too hard or too busy.