Em9 guitar chord

The Em9 chord (E minor 9th) is built from the notes E, G, B, D and F#, formula 1–b3–5–b7–9.

Notes
E G B D F#
Type
minor 9th
Level
Barre chord
OpenShape 1 of 3
12EBDGBF#
020002

How to play Em9

The easiest Em9 shape is 020002, starting around fret 2. Mute any strings marked x so only chord tones sound.

Lush and smooth, a staple of neo-soul and jazz.

Other ways to play it

Questions

What notes are in the Em9 chord?

Em9 contains E, G, B, D and F#. Its formula is 1–b3–5–b7–9.

Is Em9 hard to play on guitar?

It is harder than a basic open chord. The most common shape is 020002.

What can I play instead of Em9?

Em7 is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when Em9 is too hard or too busy.