C9 guitar chord
The C9 chord (C dominant 9th) is built from the notes C, E, G, Bb and D, formula 1–3–5–b7–9.
- Notes
- C E G Bb D
- Type
- dominant 9th
- Level
- Barre chord
OpenShape 1 of 4
x30330How to play C9
The easiest C9 shape is x30330, starting around fret 3. 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 C9 chord?
C9 contains C, E, G, Bb and D. Its formula is 1–3–5–b7–9.
Is C9 hard to play on guitar?
It is harder than a basic open chord. The most common shape is x30330.
What can I play instead of C9?
C7 is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when C9 is too hard or too busy.