C#9 guitar chord
The C#9 chord (C# dominant 9th) is built from the notes C#, E#, G#, B and D#, formula 1–3–5–b7–9.
- Notes
- C# E# G# B D#
- Type
- dominant 9th
- Level
- Barre chord
OpenShape 1 of 4
x41101How to play C#9
The easiest C#9 shape is x41101, starting around fret 1. Mute any strings marked x so only chord tones sound.
Funky and full. Dominant 9ths are everywhere in funk, blues and soul.
Other ways to play it
Questions
What notes are in the C#9 chord?
C#9 contains C#, E#, G#, B and D#. Its formula is 1–3–5–b7–9.
Is C#9 hard to play on guitar?
It is harder than a basic open chord. The most common shape is x41101.
What can I play instead of C#9?
C#7 is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when C#9 is too hard or too busy.