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How to play the D major over F# chord on guitar

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The D major over F# chord

The D chord, pronounced "D major over F sharp," is a unique and versatile chord that combines the bright, cheerful sound of D major with the sharp, edgy tone of F#. This chord is often used in jazz, funk, and R&B music to add a distinctive flavor to progressions. Notable songs featuring the D/F# chord include "Soul Man" by Sam & Dave and "September" by Earth, Wind & Fire.

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

D major over F# guitar chord diagram

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Finger placement for D major over F# chord

The most popular way to play the D major over F# chord on guitar is as a barre chord on the 2nd fret.

Follow these finger positions to play a D major over F# chord on your guitar:

  1. Barre your index finger across all six strings at the 2nd fret.
  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.

Strum all six strings together to play the D major over F# chord. Make sure to apply enough pressure with your index finger to properly fret all the strings.

D major over F# guitar chord with finger positions

How to play an easy D major over F# chord on guitar

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the D major over F# chord, try playing a standard D major chord and use your thumb to fret the 2nd fret of the 6th (low E) string. This way, you can avoid the barre and still achieve a similar sound.

How to play a D major over F# bar chord

The D major over F# barre chord is a useful alternative to the standard D/F# chord, as it allows for more versatility and can be easier to transition to and from other barre chords.

Here's how to play a D major over F# barre chord:

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

Common D major over F# chord progressions

The D major over F# chord, also known as D/F#, is often used in chord progressions to create a sense of tension and resolution, evoking feelings of yearning, anticipation, and emotional depth. Here are some common chord progressions featuring D/F#:

  • vi - IV - I - V (D/F# - G - C - G) - Used in "Let It Be" by The Beatles and "No Woman, No Cry" by Bob Marley
  • vi - IV - V (D/F# - G - G) - Used in "Wonderwall" by Oasis and "Riptide" by Vance Joy
  • vi - V - IV - V (D/F# - G - F - G)
  • vi - iii - IV - V (D/F# - Em - F - G)
  • vi - IV - I - iii (D/F# - F - C - Em)

Drills to master the D major over F# chord

To master the D major over F# guitar chord, try this simple drill: play each note of the chord individually, starting with the lowest note (F#) and ascending to the highest (D). Focus on producing a clear, strong tone for each note. Once you've played each note separately, strum the full chord, letting all the notes ring out together.

Another effective drill is to practice transitioning smoothly between the D major over F# chord and other chords commonly used in the same key, such as E minor and A major. Work on switching chords cleanly and efficiently.

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Songs that feature the D major over F# chord

Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the D major over F# chord:

  1. Hotel California by Eagles (Bm, F#, A, E, G, D)
  2. Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin (Am, C, D, F, G)
  3. Free Fallin' by Tom Petty (D, G, A, Asus4)
  4. The Scientist by Coldplay (F#m, B, E, C#m, A)
  5. Landslide by Fleetwood Mac (C, G/B, Am7, G, D/F#)
  6. Wonderwall by Oasis (Em, G, D, A7sus4)
  7. Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton (A, E, F#m, D)
  8. Fast Car by Tracy Chapman (C, G, Em, D, Am)
  9. Blackbird by The Beatles (G, A, B7, C, D, E)
  10. Hey There Delilah by Plain White T's (D, F#m, Bm, G, A)

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.

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