Abadd9 guitar chord

The Abadd9 chord (Ab added 9th) is built from the notes Ab, C, Eb and Bb, formula 1–3–5–9.

Notes
Ab C Eb Bb
Type
added 9th
Level
Barre chord
Barre · fret 1Shape 1 of 3
213AbBbEbAbCAb
411114

How to play Abadd9

The usual Abadd9 shape is a barre chord: your index finger presses fret 1 across several strings (411114). Barre chords take practice, so start by getting each string to ring clearly before worrying about speed.

A shimmering major chord, popular in pop and acoustic ballads.

Other ways to play it

Questions

What notes are in the Abadd9 chord?

Abadd9 contains Ab, C, Eb and Bb. Its formula is 1–3–5–9.

Is Abadd9 hard to play on guitar?

It is harder than a basic open chord. The most common shape is 411114.

What can I play instead of Abadd9?

Ab is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when Abadd9 is too hard or too busy.