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How to play the Bsus2 chord on guitar

Learn to play the Bsus2 chord, featured in hits like "Wonderwall" and "Creep."

The Bsus2 chord

The Bsus2 chord, pronounced B suspended second, is a variation of the B major chord that adds a unique, open sound. To play Bsus2, simply replace the 3rd (D#) with the 2nd scale degree (C#). This chord is commonly used in rock, folk, and country music to create tension and resolution, making it a valuable tool for songwriters and guitarists alike.

There are many ways to play a chord. Here's a diagram for the most common Bsus2 chord. We've also included other versions below.

Bsus2 guitar chord diagram

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Finger placement for Bsus2 chord

The most common way to play the Bsus2 chord on guitar is as a barre chord on the 7th fret.

Follow these finger positions to play a Bsus2 chord on your guitar:

  1. Use your index finger to barre the strings at the 7th fret, covering the 1st (high E), 2nd (B), 3rd (G), 4th (D), and 5th (A) strings.
  2. Place your ring finger on the 9th fret of the 4th (D) string.
  3. Place your pinky finger on the 9th fret of the 3rd (G) string.

Strum all six strings down from the 1st (high E) string to play the Bsus2 chord. Make sure to apply enough pressure with your index finger to properly barre the strings.

Bsus2 guitar chord with finger positions

How to play an easy Bsus2 chord on guitar

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the Bsus2 chord, try this:

  1. Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th (A) string.
  2. Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd (G) string.
  3. Leave the remaining strings open.
  4. Strum from the 5th (A) string down to the 1st (high E) string.

How to play a Bsus2 bar chord

The Bsus2 chord can be played as a barre chord, which allows for greater flexibility and ease of transitions when playing songs that require this chord.

Here's how to play a Bsus2 barre chord:

  1. Place your index finger across all six strings at the 2nd fret, forming a barre.
  2. Place your ring finger on the 4th fret of the 4th (D) string.
  3. Place your pinky finger on the 4th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
  4. Strum from the 5th (A) string down to the 1st (high E) string.

Common Bsus2 chord progressions

The Bsus2 chord is often used to add tension and resolution in chord progressions, creating a sense of anticipation and emotional release. Some common Bsus2 chord progressions include:

  • I - Isus2 - IV - V (B - Bsus2 - E - F#) Used in "With or Without You" by U2
  • vi - IV - I - Isus2 (G#m - E - B - Bsus2)
  • Isus2 - IV - vi - V (Bsus2 - E - G#m - F#)
  • I - Isus2 - iii - vi (B - Bsus2 - D#m - G#m)
  • Isus2 - V - vi - IV (Bsus2 - F# - G#m - E)

Drills to master the Bsus2 chord

To master the Bsus2 guitar chord, try practicing the chord progression Bsus2 - E - F# - Bsus2. This will help your fingers get accustomed to the shape and build muscle memory. Focus on smooth transitions between each chord.

Another effective drill is to play the Bsus2 chord as a half-note, followed by two quarter-note strums of the individual notes (B, C#, F#). This exercise will improve your accuracy and help you memorize the notes within the chord.

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Songs that feature the Bsus2 chord

Here are 4 popular songs you can play with the Bsus2 chord.

  1. All of Me by John Legend (Bsus2, G#m, E, C#m, F#)
  2. Skinny Love by Bon Iver (Bsus2, Esus2)
  3. The Scientist by Coldplay (Bsus2, F#, G#m, E)
  4. Daughters by John Mayer (Bsus2, G#m, F#, E)

How a guitar teacher can help

If you feel stuck in your playing, it might help to take personalized guitar lessons with an expert guitarist. Taking lessons with a pro gives you access to the skills, feedback, and motivation to reach your goals.

You can find expert guitar teachers to support you in the journey. Thousands of people have turned to online guitar lessons on Til, instead of traditional in-person lessons, because Til gives you access to the best teachers in the world from the comfort of home. And with flexible scheduling, secure payments, lesson recordings, and a private chat with your teacher–there’s never been a better way to learn guitar.

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