E guitar chord
The E chord (E major) is built from the notes E, G# and B, formula 1–3–5. It appears in E major (as I), B major (as IV) and A major (as V).
- Notes
- E G# B
- Type
- major
- Level
- Beginner
OpenShape 1 of 3
022100How to play E
The standard open E shape is 022100. It needs 3 fingers and stays in the first few frets, so it is one of the chords most players learn early.
Bright, stable and settled. Major chords are the backbone of most songs.
Other ways to play it
Songs with E
- Cripple CreekADE
- GreensleevesAmGFE
- What Child Is This?AmCGEmE
- House of the Rising SunAmCDFE
Questions
What notes are in the E chord?
E contains E, G# and B. Its formula is 1–3–5.
Is E hard to play on guitar?
No. The open shape (022100) is beginner-friendly and doesn't need a barre.
What songs use the E chord?
In our songbook, Cripple Creek, Greensleeves, What Child Is This? and 1 more songs use E.