Suspended chords are like the secret spice that can add a whole new flavour to your guitar playing.

Suspended chords are like the secret spice that can add a whole new flavour to your guitar playing. If you've been sticking to the usual major and minor chords, it might be time to explore the world of suspended chords to inject some freshness into your sound.

So, what exactly are suspended chords? Well, suspended chords are created by replacing the third in a traditional major or minor chord with either the second or fourth note of the scale. This substitution gives the chord a sense of tension and intrigue, making it a versatile tool to create tension and release in your music.

One of the most common suspended chords is the sus2 chord, where the third is replaced by the second note of the scale. This chord creates a dreamy and open sound, perfect for adding a touch of mystery to your compositions. Another popular choice is the sus4 chord, where the third is replaced by the fourth note of the scale. This chord has a more resolved and uplifting quality, making it great for building anticipation in your music.

To incorporate suspended chords into your playing, it's essential to familiarise yourself with their shapes on the fretboard. You can use a triad visualisation tool to help you see the different shapes and inversions of suspended chords all over the neck. Additionally, mastering the notes of the fretboard will make it easier for you to find and play these chords effortlessly.

Ear training is also crucial when working with suspended chords, as it will help you recognise their unique sound and incorporate them into your improvisations seamlessly. Practice playing arpeggios based on suspended chords to internalise their sound and feel more comfortable using them in your playing.

Instead of relying solely on the CAGED system, which can sometimes feel limiting, try to recognise triads all over the fretboard to expand your chord vocabulary and create more interesting progressions.

Experiment with suspended chords in different contexts and see how they can transform your guitar playing. Whether you're adding a sus2 for a touch of melancholy or a sus4 for a burst of energy, suspended chords have the power to elevate your music to new heights. So go ahead, spice up your guitar playing with suspended chords and unleash your creativity!



Ready to dive into the world of suspended chords? Check out our tools for ear training, arpeggios, and major and natural minor scales to enhance your guitar skills and take your playing to the next level.