How to play

How to play the E major over C# chord on guitar

Learn the secrets behind iconic songs like "Wonderwall" and "Hey There Delilah."

The E major over C# chord

The E chord, pronounced "E major over C sharp," is a unique guitar voicing that combines an E major triad with a C# bass note. This intriguing chord creates a sense of tension and resolution, making it well-suited for genres like rock, blues, and country. Notable songs featuring the E/C# chord include "Hotel California" by The Eagles and "Sweet Home Alabama" by Lynyrd Skynyrd.

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

E major over C# guitar chord diagram

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Finger placement for E major over C# chord

The standard way to play the E major over C# chord on guitar is as a barre chord on the 4th fret.

Follow these finger positions to play a E major over C# chord on your guitar:

  1. Place your index finger across all six strings at the 4th fret, forming a barre.
  2. Place your middle finger on the 5th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
  3. Place your ring finger on the 6th fret of the 5th (A) string.
  4. Place your pinky finger on the 6th fret of the 4th (D) string.

To strum this chord, use a downward stroke to play all six strings simultaneously. Make sure to apply adequate pressure with your index finger to properly fret all the strings in the barre.

E major over C# guitar chord with finger positions

How to play an easy E major over C# chord on guitar

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the E major over C# chord, try this:

  1. Place your first finger on the 4th fret of the 5th (A) string.
  2. Place your second finger on the 5th fret of the 4th (D) string.
  3. Place your third finger on the 6th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
  4. Strum these three strings together.

How to play a E major over C# bar chord

Playing the E major over C# chord as a barre chord allows you to easily transition between chords and create a fuller sound compared to the standard open chord version.

Here's how to play an E major over C# barre chord:

  1. Place your index finger across all six strings at the 9th fret, creating a barre.
  2. Place your ring finger on the 11th fret of the 5th (A) string.
  3. Place your pinky finger on the 11th fret of the 4th (D) string.
  4. Place your middle finger on the 10th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
  5. Strum from the 5th (A) string down to the 1st (high E) string.

Common E major over C# chord progressions

The E major over C# chord, also known as E/C#, is a versatile chord that can add a sense of tension, anticipation, or resolution to a chord progression. It often serves as a connecting chord or a transitional element, creating a unique emotional feel ranging from yearning and wistfulness to hope and optimism. Here are some common chord progressions featuring the E/C# chord:

  • vi/III - V - I (E/C# - D - A) - Used in "Hey Jude" by The Beatles and "Let It Be" by The Beatles
  • I - vi/III - IV - V (A - E/C# - D - E) - Used in "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey
  • vi/III - IV - I - V (E/C# - D - A - E) - Used in "Wonderwall" by Oasis
  • I - V - vi/III - IV (A - E - E/C# - D)
  • vi/III - I - IV - V (E/C# - A - D - E) - Used in "The Scientist" by Coldplay

Drills to master the E major over C# chord

To master the E major over C# guitar chord, try strumming the chord while alternating between different rhythmic patterns. Start with simple patterns like quarter notes, then progress to more complex rhythms like eighth notes or syncopated strums. Focus on maintaining a consistent tempo and clean chord transitions.

Another effective drill is to arpeggiate the chord, playing each note individually in ascending or descending order. This helps develop finger dexterity and familiarizes you with the chord's structure. Experiment with different arpeggio patterns and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the chord.

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Songs that feature the E major over C# chord

Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the E major over C# chord.

  1. Wonderwall by Oasis (Em7, G, D, A7sus4)
  2. Fix You by Coldplay (Em7, C, G, D)
  3. Fast Car by Tracy Chapman (Em7, D, C, G)
  4. The Scientist by Coldplay (Em7, C, G, D)
  5. Mad World by Gary Jules (Em7, C, G, D)
  6. Creep by Radiohead (Em7, C, G, D)
  7. Iris by Goo Goo Dolls (Em7, C, G, D)
  8. Skinny Love by Bon Iver (Em7, C, G, D)
  9. Yellow by Coldplay (Em7, C, G, D)
  10. Boulevard of Broken Dreams by Green Day (Em7, C, G, D)

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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