The Asus2 chord, also known as the A suspended 2nd chord, presents a captivating sonic texture on the guitar. It’s a chord that’s both easy to finger and rich in harmonic color, often described as sitting between the brighter major and the somber minor chords of the same root. This inherent ambiguity makes the Guitar Asus Chord incredibly versatile, allowing it to substitute for both A major and A minor, injecting a distinctive flavor into chord progressions.
While traditional chord sequences are fundamental, sometimes they lack a certain spark. The Asus2 offers a subtle yet effective way to “riff” on established chords, tweaking the familiar to create something that resonates more deeply within a particular song or musical context. Let’s delve into the nuances of this chord and learn how to bring its unique voice to your guitar playing.
Mastering the Asus2 Chord on Guitar
The beauty of the Asus2 chord lies in its understated complexity. It doesn’t possess the overt cheerfulness of an A major or the melancholic shade of an A minor. Instead, it occupies a fascinating middle ground, offering a sound that is both reflective and intriguing.
The most common and beginner-friendly method to play the Asus2 chord involves a simple two-finger placement. Position your index finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (4th string). Next, place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string (3rd string). Strum downwards, encompassing five strings, starting from the A string. This fingering produces a resonant Asus2 chord that feels substantial and complete, despite its straightforward construction.
- Index finger: 2nd fret of the D string (4th)
- Middle finger: 2nd fret of the G string (3rd)
Image: Diagram showing the two-finger Asus2 guitar chord position, index finger on the 2nd fret of the D string and middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string.
Unpacking the Musical Notes of the Asus2 Chord
The Asus2 chord is built from three core notes:
A, B, and E
The construction of the Asus2 chord adheres to the standard formula for creating a suspended second chord, which is:
- Root note
- The 2nd note from the root note’s major scale
- The 5th note from the root note’s major scale
In the case of the Asus2, with A as the root:
- Root: A
- 2nd (from A major scale): B
- 5th (from A major scale): E
This unique combination of notes is what gives the Asus2 its suspended quality, replacing the 3rd of the major or minor scale (which would define it as major or minor) with the 2nd. This “suspension” creates a feeling of unresolved tension and a distinctive open sound.
Exploring Songs Featuring the Asus2 Chord
The Asus2 chord is far from being a background player; it often takes center stage, adding a layer of emotional depth to a song. It’s a chord that evokes contemplation, feelings that can lean towards optimism or introspection, depending on the context. You can find the guitar asus chord woven into diverse genres and prominent songs, showcasing its versatility. Listen closely and then try playing the Asus2 in these examples to truly grasp its character!
Rock Anthems with Asus2
Reflecting its slightly melancholic yet questioning nature, Nickelback’s hit “How You Remind Me” prominently features the Asus2, contributing to the song’s post-romance introspection.
Similarly, the Rolling Stones’ timeless classic “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” utilizes the Asus2 to underscore the poignant blend of reflection and resilience, seeking hope amidst disappointment.
Mr. Mister’s 1985 ballad, “Broken Wings,” incorporates the Asus2 to inject an unexpected edge into its introspective mood.
In a more upbeat context, the Asus2 finds its place in Bad Company’s “Rock n’ Roll Fantasy” and Stone Temple Pilots’ “Interstate Love Song.” In these tracks, the chord’s ambiguous tonality, neither fully major nor minor, is expertly leveraged to enhance the songs’ energetic drive.
Pop Sensibilities and Asus2
Conjure up the quintessential ‘80s prom ambiance, and you might hear echoes of “Your Love” by The Outfield. This cheerful ballad, a staple of school dances in the era of big hair and vibrant fashion, showcases the Asus2 in a lighthearted setting. Its enduring appeal is evident in covers by artists as diverse as Wyclef Jean, Katy Perry, and I See Stars, and even in its re-imagining for a fabric softener commercial by The Outfield themselves.
While ‘80s pop often leans towards upbeat and energetic, Suzanne Vega’s “Luka” provides a contrasting example. Here, the Asus2 lends an acoustic buoyancy that subtly counterpoints the song’s weighty theme of child abuse, creating a poignant bridge between innocence and its loss.
Country Roads and Asus2 Chords
Blake Shelton’s reflective track “Came Here to Forget,” which navigates the aftermath of a breakup and the prospect of moving on, effectively employs the Asus2. The chord perfectly encapsulates the sentiment of brushing off regret and embracing the present moment.
Folk Ballads and Asus2 Emotion
Damien Rice’s modern folk masterpiece, “9 Crimes,” uses the Asus2 to amplify the emotional intensity of this delicate duet. The chord punctuates the sparse instrumentation, leaning into the more melancholic side of the Asus2’s expressive spectrum.
Now that you’ve explored the diverse applications of the Asus2 chord and understand its construction, experiment with it in your own playing. Mastering this simple yet evocative chord will undoubtedly enrich your guitar vocabulary and add a unique dimension to your music.
To further expand your chord knowledge, explore comprehensive guitar chord libraries online. And remember, consistent practice is key to unlocking the full potential of any chord, including the versatile guitar asus chord.
