The A7 chord, a dominant 7th chord, adds a unique flavor to guitar music. It’s neither as bright as a major chord nor as somber as a minor, lending a slightly bluesy, jazzy, or even rock-and-roll edge to songs. This versatile chord, characterized by its distinctive sharp note (C#), is surprisingly accessible for guitarists of all levels, including beginners.
Whether you’re aiming for a low-register rumble or a higher-pitched sparkle, the A7 chord can bring an unexpected twist and dynamic punch to your playing. Let’s explore how to play this essential chord in different positions and discover songs that showcase its character.
Two Essential Ways to Play the A7 Guitar Chord
There are two primary ways to play the A7 chord on guitar, both using standard E tuning. Beginners will find both forms manageable, making the A7 chord a great addition to your early chord vocabulary.
1. Open Position A7 Chord
The first, and often easiest, way to play the A7 chord is in the open position. This voicing is located near the guitar’s nut and utilizes open strings.
To form this A7 chord:
- Place your middle finger (2nd finger) on the 2nd fret of the D string (4th string).
- Place your ring finger (3rd finger) on the 2nd fret of the B string (2nd string).
- Ensure your index finger is not pressing down any strings and is ready to strum.
Strum down from the A string (5th string), avoiding the low E string (6th string). This means you will strum five strings in total.
This open position A7 provides a full, resonant sound that’s perfect for rhythm guitar and many popular songs.
2. Barre Chord A7 (Higher Position)
For a higher-pitched and slightly different tonal color of the A7 chord, you can use a barre chord form further up the neck. This version requires a bit more finger strength and coordination but is still achievable for beginner to intermediate players.
To play this barre chord A7:
- Use your index finger to barre across all six strings at the 5th fret. Ensure all strings are pressed down cleanly.
- Place your middle finger (2nd finger) on the 6th fret of the G string (3rd string).
- Place your pinky finger (4th finger) on the 7th fret of the B string (2nd string).
Strum down from the D string (4th string), avoiding the lower E, A and E strings. This means you will strum three strings in total. Correction: Strum from the D string, meaning you will strum the D, G, and B strings – 3 strings.
Correction for image 2 description: The finger positions in text and image description are slightly off. Based on the image, the barre should be on the 6th fret and following fingers on 7th and 8th. Let’s correct the description and ALT text to match the image.
Let’s correct the finger positioning for barre chord A7 based on the image for accuracy:
To play this barre chord A7 (Corrected):
- Use your index finger to barre across all six strings at the 6th fret. Ensure all strings are pressed down cleanly.
- Place your middle finger (2nd finger) on the 7th fret of the D string (4th string).
- Place your pinky finger (4th finger) on the 8th fret of the B string (2nd string).
Strum down from the D string (4th string), avoiding the lower E, A and E strings. This means you will strum three strings in total.
This higher-position A7 chord offers a brighter, more cutting sound, useful for lead guitar work or when you want the A7 to stand out in a mix.
Popular Songs Featuring the A7 Chord
The A7 chord is a workhorse in popular music, appearing across genres and eras. Its distinctive sound adds character to countless songs. Here are some examples across different genres where you can hear and play along with the A7 chord:
Rock and Roll Classics
The A7 chord is a staple of rock and roll. Listen for it in:
- “Peggy Sue” by Buddy Holly: A foundational rockabilly track where the A7 adds to the upbeat energy.
- “I Saw Her Standing There” by The Beatles: Early Beatles rock and roll that incorporates the A7 chord within its energetic chord progression.
- “Every Breath You Take” by The Police: While a pop song, this track features a prominent A7 chord in the bridge section, adding a touch of harmonic interest.
Folk and Americana
The slightly melancholic yet hopeful quality of the A7 makes it at home in folk music:
- “Amazing Grace”: This timeless hymn utilizes the A7 chord to create an ethereal and moving harmonic shift.
Pop Sensations
Pop music has long embraced the A7 for its ability to add a touch of sophistication:
- “Heartbreak Hotel” and “That’s All Right” by Elvis Presley: The King himself used the A7 in his early hits, showcasing its versatility even in pop contexts.
- “Baby Love” by Diana Ross & The Supremes: Motown classics often employed 7th chords like A7 to add soulful richness.
- “Dancing in the Streets” by Martha Reeves & the Vandellas: Another Motown gem where the A7 contributes to the song’s infectious groove.
Country and Blues Twang
The A7 chord’s blend of major and minor qualities suits the emotional landscape of country and blues:
- “Happy Trails” by Roy Rogers and Dale Evans: The A7 adds a touch of wistful farewell to this classic cowboy tune.
- “Mama Tried” by Merle Haggard: Even in country music’s storytelling tradition, the A7 finds its place adding depth to the harmony.
- “Walkin’ After Midnight” by Patsy Cline: The dreamy quality of this country ballad is enhanced by the inclusion of the A7 chord.
- “Blues Before Sunrise” and “Boom Boom” by John Lee Hooker: A blues legend, Hooker frequently used the A7 chord to create his signature boogie rhythms.
- “Crossfire” by Stevie Ray Vaughan: In blues-rock, the A7 can be used for powerful, tension-filled moments.
- “I’m Tore Down” by Freddie King and “Why I Sing the Blues” by B.B. King: Further examples of the A7’s essential role in the blues vocabulary.
Practice Makes Perfect
No matter which A7 chord version you prefer, consistent practice is key to mastering it. Experiment with both the open position and barre chord forms to understand their unique sounds and find which is most comfortable for your playing style.
Start by practicing smooth transitions to and from the A7 chord with chords you already know. Listen actively for the A7 in your favorite songs and try incorporating it into your own playing. The more you use the A7 chord, the more natural and intuitive it will become, unlocking new sonic possibilities in your guitar playing journey.
Explore more guitar chords and expand your musical vocabulary to become a more versatile guitarist!
