C#maj7 guitar chord

The C#maj7 chord (C# major 7th) is built from the notes C#, E#, G# and B#, formula 1–3–5–7. It appears in Db major (as Imaj7) and Ab major (as IVmaj7).

Notes
C# E# G# B#
Type
major 7th
Level
Barre chord
Barre · fret 4Shape 1 of 3
4×1324C#G#B#E#G#
x46564

How to play C#maj7

The usual C#maj7 shape is a barre chord: your index finger presses fret 4 across several strings (x46564). Barre chords take practice, so start by getting each string to ring clearly before worrying about speed.

Soft and dreamy. The major 7th adds a gentle, jazzy shimmer to a major chord.

Other ways to play it

Questions

What notes are in the C#maj7 chord?

C#maj7 contains C#, E#, G# and B#. Its formula is 1–3–5–7.

Is C#maj7 hard to play on guitar?

It is harder than a basic open chord. The most common shape is x46564. A shortcut: put a capo on fret 1 and play an open Cmaj7 shape.

What can I play instead of C#maj7?

C# is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when C#maj7 is too hard or too busy.