The world of guitar chords can sometimes feel like a maze of names and variations. You might stumble upon a chord chart labeled “Bsus” and wonder, what exactly is this chord, and how does it fit into my playing? Often, guitarists encounter voicings that blur the lines between chord types, leading to questions like, “Is this a Bsus, or is it something else?”. Let’s demystify the Bsus Guitar Chord, exploring its construction, common voicings, and how you can effectively use it in your music.
The term “sus” in a chord name stands for “suspended.” In essence, a suspended chord replaces the major or minor third with either a second (sus2) or a fourth (sus4). For a Bsus chord, we are generally referring to a Bsus4. This means instead of the major third (D# in a B major chord) or minor third (D in a B minor chord), we use the perfect fourth (E). Therefore, a basic Bsus4 chord is comprised of the notes B, E, and F#.
Now, things can get interesting when we consider different voicings and added notes. You might encounter a Bsus chord voicing that, at first glance, could be mistaken for a B minor 11th or even a B7sus chord. This is where understanding chord construction and context becomes crucial.
One common voicing, often referred to as a Bsus add9, is a prime example. This voicing includes the root (B), the fourth (E), the fifth (F#), and the added ninth (C#). Noticeably absent is the third, which is the defining characteristic of a suspended chord. While technically, an 11th chord should contain a 9th and a 7th, and a minor 11th implies a minor third, this Bsus add9 voicing sidesteps those conventions, creating a unique and open sound.
Some might argue this voicing is closer to a B7sus, especially if you consider the implied 7th in certain musical contexts. However, the beauty of music theory lies in its flexibility and how chord names can sometimes be descriptive rather than strictly prescriptive. What truly matters is the sound and how it functions within a musical piece.
The Bsus add9 voicing offers a rich, ambiguous quality. It’s neither strictly major nor minor, lending itself well to introspective or uplifting passages. Experiment with using this Bsus chord voicing in place of a standard B minor or B major chord to add a touch of complexity and intrigue to your chord progressions.
In practice, you can utilize the Bsus chord in various genres, from rock and pop to folk and even jazz-influenced styles. Its suspended nature creates a sense of anticipation and resolution, making it effective in transitions and as a color chord to enhance harmonic interest.
Whether you call it a Bsus add9, a Bsus, or even a unique voicing of a B7sus, the important takeaway is to explore the sound of this chord. Experiment with incorporating it into your playing, and you’ll discover the unique sonic texture it can bring to your guitar repertoire. By understanding the construction and context of the Bsus guitar chord, you can move beyond labels and focus on the expressive possibilities it unlocks.
