E7b9 guitar chord

The E7b9 chord (E 7th flat 9) is built from the notes E, G#, B, D and F, formula 1–3–5–b7–b9.

Notes
E G# B D F
Type
7th flat 9
Level
Barre chord
OpenShape 1 of 4
312EBDG#BF
020101

How to play E7b9

The easiest E7b9 shape is 020101, starting around fret 1. Mute any strings marked x so only chord tones sound.

Dark and tense, pulling strongly toward a minor chord.

Other ways to play it

Questions

What notes are in the E7b9 chord?

E7b9 contains E, G#, B, D and F. Its formula is 1–3–5–b7–b9.

Is E7b9 hard to play on guitar?

It is harder than a basic open chord. The most common shape is 020101.

What can I play instead of E7b9?

E7 is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when E7b9 is too hard or too busy.