C7 guitar chord
The C7 chord (C dominant 7th) is built from the notes C, E, G and Bb, formula 1–3–5–b7. It appears in F major (as V7).
- Notes
- C E G Bb
- Type
- dominant 7th
- Level
- Beginner
OpenShape 1 of 3
x32310How to play C7
The standard open C7 shape is x32310. It needs 4 fingers and stays in the first few frets, so it is one of the chords most players learn early.
Bluesy and restless. A dominant 7th wants to resolve to the chord a fourth above it.
Other ways to play it
Questions
What notes are in the C7 chord?
C7 contains C, E, G and Bb. Its formula is 1–3–5–b7.
Is C7 hard to play on guitar?
No. The open shape (x32310) is beginner-friendly and doesn't need a barre.
What can I play instead of C7?
C is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when C7 is too hard or too busy.