F9 guitar chord

The F9 chord (F dominant 9th) is built from the notes F, A, C, Eb and G, formula 1–3–5–b7–9.

Notes
F A C Eb G
Type
dominant 9th
Level
Barre chord
OpenShape 1 of 3
1234FAEbGCF
101011

How to play F9

The easiest F9 shape is 101011, starting around fret 1. 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 F9 chord?

F9 contains F, A, C, Eb and G. Its formula is 1–3–5–b7–9.

Is F9 hard to play on guitar?

It is harder than a basic open chord. The most common shape is 101011.

What can I play instead of F9?

F7 is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when F9 is too hard or too busy.