E9 guitar chord
The E9 chord (E dominant 9th) is built from the notes E, G#, B, D and F#, formula 1–3–5–b7–9.
- Notes
- E G# B D F#
- Type
- dominant 9th
- Level
- Barre chord
OpenShape 1 of 4
020102How to play E9
The easiest E9 shape is 020102, starting around fret 1. 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 E9 chord?
E9 contains E, G#, B, D and F#. Its formula is 1–3–5–b7–9.
Is E9 hard to play on guitar?
It is harder than a basic open chord. The most common shape is 020102.
What can I play instead of E9?
E7 is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when E9 is too hard or too busy.