Eadd9 guitar chord

The Eadd9 chord (E added 9th) is built from the notes E, G#, B and F#, formula 1–3–5–9.

Notes
E G# B F#
Type
added 9th
Level
Barre chord
OpenShape 1 of 3
2314EBEG#BF#
022102

How to play Eadd9

The easiest Eadd9 shape is 022102, starting around fret 1. Mute any strings marked x so only chord tones sound.

A shimmering major chord, popular in pop and acoustic ballads.

Other ways to play it

Questions

What notes are in the Eadd9 chord?

Eadd9 contains E, G#, B and F#. Its formula is 1–3–5–9.

Is Eadd9 hard to play on guitar?

It is harder than a basic open chord. The most common shape is 022102. A shortcut: put a capo on fret 4 and play an open Cadd9 shape.

What can I play instead of Eadd9?

E is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when Eadd9 is too hard or too busy.