Abmaj9 guitar chord

The Abmaj9 chord (Ab major 9th) is built from the notes Ab, C, Eb, G and Bb, formula 1–3–5–7–9.

Notes
Ab C Eb G Bb
Type
major 9th
Level
Barre chord
OpenShape 1 of 4
×4123AbBbEbGC
41101x

How to play Abmaj9

The easiest Abmaj9 shape is 41101x, starting around fret 1. Mute any strings marked x so only chord tones sound.

Very lush and relaxed, often used in jazz ballads and lo-fi.

Other ways to play it

Questions

What notes are in the Abmaj9 chord?

Abmaj9 contains Ab, C, Eb, G and Bb. Its formula is 1–3–5–7–9.

Is Abmaj9 hard to play on guitar?

It is harder than a basic open chord. The most common shape is 41101x.

What can I play instead of Abmaj9?

Abmaj7 is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when Abmaj9 is too hard or too busy.