The key of G is a highly sought-after one for guitarists and contains some very useful chord shapes. Additionally, this key was used as the inspiration behind AC/DC’s Wonderwall song and numerous classic tunes from various genres.
Beginners will also find it straightforward to learn this song as it only has a single sharp note and utilizes finger patterns familiar from learning scales on the fretboard.
1. Open G Chord
G major is one of the most frequently employed chords on guitar, as its three notes (G, B and D) can easily be heard and felt by listeners and guitarists alike. Pop, Rock and Folk songs all use G major as the foundation for progressions.
With Open G tuning, it is also possible to play moveable major chord shapes that span all strings – this feature is particularly beneficial if you wish to create full chords using barred shapes.
Keith Richards’ song Brown Sugar features an example of an effective 6sus4 chord which includes root, perfect fourth and perfect fifth (see diagram). Some guitarists may choose to remove low 6th string for this chord to fully sound out.
2. G Minor Chord
G minor chord is an inversion of the major scale that contains G, B and D notes. It features an upbeat sound and is often chosen as the go-to option by guitarists for its bright sound and bright uplifting tones. Beginner guitarists might find this version easier as it doesn’t require using your ring and pinky fingers like open G shapes do.
G minor 7th chords can also be made into G minor 7th chords by adding an additional note seven notes above its root note, giving a more melancholy sound that may be useful in songs that need it; these chords often serve as key transitions between positive feelings of verses or choruses and darker feelings found in bridges or middle eights.
3. G Major Chord
G major chord is an excellent way to add a vibrant sound to any song, as its bright notes will easily bring joyous energy. Beginners might need some assistance when starting out; stretching may be needed but with proper guidance it will soon become second nature!
To play the G major chord, place your thumb on the second fret of the low E string, index finger on third fret of A string and ring finger on fourth fret of B string. This modified version of open G major chord adds an interval with your ring finger making it easier and fuller sounding; receive real-time feedback as you practice on Skoove!
4. G Blues Chord
G blues chords are built upon the G minor pentatonic scale notes, but with one note flattened to form what’s known as a ‘blue note’. If you already use this scale in your playing, this should come easily to you.
These chords are essential in most blues progressions and can serve as the basis of your own songs. You can begin learning these shapes using open position major chords you already know – this will speed up the learning process. While learning these chords won’t be too challenging, practice fingering the notes until the sound sounds right for you and strumming these chords against a jam track will give you both rhythmic feel as well as feeling for them!
5. G Scale Chord
G major is an extremely versatile chord that can easily be enhanced with sixths, sevenths and ninths to create more interest and add melancholy vibes that help move from verses or choruses written in G to bridges or middle eights that feature bass boom motifs.
Beginner guitarists may find it challenging to reach the fifth string, so here is an easier two-finger version of this chord that allows your index finger to rest at the third fret of the sixth string while your middle finger rests on the second fret of the fifth string.
Add an extra challenge by playing these chords along to a jam track or drone and see how fast you can play them while still maintaining proper fretting technique. Have fun!