The Asus2 chord, also known as the A suspended 2nd, is a fascinating chord on the guitar that offers a distinctive and somewhat ambiguous sound. It’s often described as sitting between major and minor, making it a versatile tool for adding depth and intrigue to your playing. If you’re looking to expand your chord vocabulary and inject a fresh feel into your music, the Asus2 guitar chord is one you’ll definitely want to explore.
What is the Asus2 Chord?
The term “suspended” in music theory indicates that the third of a chord is replaced, creating a less resolved and more open sound. In the case of the Asus2, the major third of an A major chord (C#) is replaced by the second note of the A major scale (B). This substitution is what gives the Asus2 chord its characteristic suspended quality, distinct from both the bright cheerfulness of A major and the melancholic tone of A minor.
Essentially, the Asus2 chord is built using three notes:
- Root: A
- Second: B
- Fifth: E
This formula – root, second, and fifth – is the standard construction for all suspended second chords. The absence of the third creates a sound that is neither definitively major nor minor, lending itself to a wide range of musical contexts and emotions. Think of it as a chord that evokes reflection and a sense of anticipation.
How to Play the Asus2 Guitar Chord (Easy Open Position)
One of the great things about the Asus2 chord is its simplicity, especially in the open position. The most common and beginner-friendly way to play it requires just two fingers. Here’s how:
- Index Finger: Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (4th string from the thickest).
- Middle Finger: Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string (3rd string from the thickest).
- Strumming: Strum downwards across the top five strings, starting from the A string (5th string from the thickest). Avoid strumming the low E string (6th string).
Here’s a breakdown of the finger placement:
- Index finger: 2nd fret of the D (4th) string
- Middle finger: 2nd fret of the G (3rd) string
This two-finger Asus2 chord is easy to grasp and produces a rich, full sound. Despite its simplicity, it packs a sonic punch that can add depth to your chord progressions.
The Unique Sound and Emotional Quality of the Asus2
As mentioned, the Asus2 chord doesn’t have the bright, happy feel of a major chord nor the sad undertones of a minor chord. It occupies a fascinating middle ground. Its sound is often described as:
- Reflective: The suspended nature of the chord creates a sense of contemplation and introspection.
- Wistful: There’s a yearning quality to it, a feeling of looking back or longing.
- Open and Airy: Without the definitive third, the chord feels less grounded and more expansive.
- Versatile: Because it’s neither major nor minor, it can be used effectively in place of either, adding an unexpected twist.
This ambiguous nature makes the Asus2 a fantastic chord for conveying complex emotions in music. It can evoke feelings ranging from gentle melancholy to hopeful anticipation, making it a valuable tool for songwriters and guitarists seeking to add emotional depth to their compositions.
Asus2 Chord in Popular Songs Across Genres
The Asus2 chord isn’t confined to a single genre; its unique sound has been embraced by artists across rock, pop, country, folk, and more. Hearing it in context within popular songs can truly highlight its versatility and emotional impact. Let’s explore some examples:
Rock Anthems and Reflective Rock
- Nickelback – “How You Remind Me”: This rock anthem utilizes the Asus2 chord to enhance the feeling of self-questioning and reflection after a difficult relationship. The chord’s wistful quality perfectly complements the song’s introspective mood.
- The Rolling Stones – “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”: In this classic, the Asus2 contributes to the song’s overall sense of reflection and the search for hope amidst disappointment. It underscores the bittersweet message of the lyrics.
- Mr. Mister – “Broken Wings”: The Asus2 adds a touch of unexpected depth to this introspective ballad from the 80s. It enhances the emotional vulnerability of the song.
- Bad Company – “Rock n’ Roll Fantasy” & Stone Temple Pilots – “Interstate Love Song”: Even in more upbeat rock songs, the Asus2 finds its place. In these tracks, it adds a subtle complexity to the chord progressions, showcasing how it can be used in uptempo contexts while retaining its unique sonic character.
Pop Ballads and Acoustic Nuances
- The Outfield – “Your Love”: This iconic 80s pop song demonstrates the Asus2 in a more cheerful, yet still slightly yearning context. It contributes to the song’s memorable and slightly bittersweet feel, perfect for a nostalgic prom vibe.
- Suzanne Vega – “Luka”: In contrast to typical upbeat 80s pop, “Luka” uses the Asus2 to create a subtle sense of unease and complexity beneath its acoustic buoyancy, mirroring the song’s somber lyrical content about child abuse.
Country and Folk Sensibilities
- Blake Shelton – “Came Here to Forget”: This country hit uses the Asus2 to perfectly capture the feeling of shrugging off regret and embracing the present moment after a breakup. Its slightly detached and reflective quality works beautifully with the song’s theme.
- Damien Rice – “9 Crimes”: In this modern folk masterpiece, the Asus2 amplifies the emotional weight of the sparse and haunting duet. It leans into the sadder, more vulnerable side of the Asus2’s sonic spectrum, highlighting its capacity for deep emotion.
Conclusion: Experiment and Expand Your Sound with Asus2
The Asus2 guitar chord is more than just another chord to add to your repertoire; it’s a gateway to a richer and more nuanced sound. Its versatility and unique emotional quality make it a valuable asset for any guitarist, from beginners to experienced players.
By understanding how to play the Asus2 and recognizing its distinctive sonic character, you can begin to incorporate it into your own playing and songwriting. Experiment with substituting Asus2 for A major or A minor in your progressions and discover the subtle yet powerful impact it can have. Unlock the reflective and wistful voice of the Asus2 chord and add a new dimension to your guitar playing today.
To further expand your chord knowledge and guitar skills, explore the extensive resources available at guitarplayers.net. Happy playing!
