Cmaj9 guitar chord
The Cmaj9 chord (C major 9th) is built from the notes C, E, G, B and D, formula 1–3–5–7–9.
- Notes
- C E G B D
- Type
- major 9th
- Level
- Barre chord
OpenShape 1 of 4
x30000How to play Cmaj9
The easiest Cmaj9 shape is x30000, starting around fret 3. Mute any strings marked x so only chord tones sound.
Very lush and relaxed, often used in jazz ballads and lo-fi.
Other ways to play it
Questions
What notes are in the Cmaj9 chord?
Cmaj9 contains C, E, G, B and D. Its formula is 1–3–5–7–9.
Is Cmaj9 hard to play on guitar?
It is harder than a basic open chord. The most common shape is x30000.
What can I play instead of Cmaj9?
Cmaj7 is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when Cmaj9 is too hard or too busy.