F#m9 guitar chord

The F#m9 chord (F# minor 9th) is built from the notes F#, A, C#, E and G#, formula 1–b3–5–b7–9.

Notes
F# A C# E G#
Type
minor 9th
Level
Barre chord
OpenShape 1 of 3
2314F#AEG#C#E
202120

How to play F#m9

The easiest F#m9 shape is 202120, starting around fret 1. Mute any strings marked x so only chord tones sound.

Lush and smooth, a staple of neo-soul and jazz.

Other ways to play it

Questions

What notes are in the F#m9 chord?

F#m9 contains F#, A, C#, E and G#. Its formula is 1–b3–5–b7–9.

Is F#m9 hard to play on guitar?

It is harder than a basic open chord. The most common shape is 202120.

What can I play instead of F#m9?

F#m7 is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when F#m9 is too hard or too busy.