Em7 guitar chord
The Em7 chord (E minor 7th) is built from the notes E, G, B and D, formula 1–b3–5–b7. It appears in D major (as ii7), C major (as iii7) and G major (as vi7).
- Notes
- E G B D
- Type
- minor 7th
- Level
- Beginner
OpenShape 1 of 4
022030How to play Em7
The standard open Em7 shape is 022030. It needs 3 fingers and stays in the first few frets, so it is one of the chords most players learn early.
Mellow and smooth, common in soul, R&B, jazz and laid-back pop.
Other ways to play it
Questions
What notes are in the Em7 chord?
Em7 contains E, G, B and D. Its formula is 1–b3–5–b7.
Is Em7 hard to play on guitar?
No. The open shape (022030) is beginner-friendly and doesn't need a barre.
What can I play instead of Em7?
Em is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when Em7 is too hard or too busy.