The Asus2 chord, often called the A suspended 2nd, is a fascinating chord on the guitar. It’s known for its unique, ambiguous sound, a quality stemming from its suspended nature. Unlike major or minor chords, the Asus2 offers a sonic flavor that’s neither definitively bright nor melancholic, making it a versatile tool for guitarists.
Rooted in A, the Asus2 chord can be a compelling substitute for both A major and A minor chords. While it carries a distinct character, incorporating Asus2 into chord progressions can inject an unexpected and pleasing twist, adding depth and intrigue to your music.
Traditional chord progressions can sometimes feel predictable or lack the desired nuance. The Asus2 chord provides an avenue to subtly “riff” on familiar chords, allowing you to fine-tune a progression and discover fresh harmonies that resonate more effectively within a particular song. Let’s delve deeper into understanding the Asus2 chord and explore the simple techniques to play it on your guitar.
Understanding the Asus2 Chord on Guitar
As mentioned, the Asus2 chord occupies a unique sonic space, positioned between the cheerful brightness of an A major and the somber tone of an A minor. It resides in an intriguing middle ground, offering a sound that’s both engaging and reflective.
The most common and beginner-friendly method to play the Asus2 chord involves a straightforward two-finger configuration. This voicing provides a full and resonant Asus2 sound, surprisingly impactful for its simplicity.
To play this voicing, 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). When strumming, ensure you play five strings downwards, starting from the A string. This finger placement and strumming pattern will produce a rich and complete Asus2 chord.
- Index finger: 2nd fret of the D (4th) string
- Middle finger: 2nd fret of the G (3rd) string
Decoding the Notes of the Asus2 Chord
The Asus2 chord is constructed from three fundamental notes:
A, B, and E
The formulation of the Asus2 chord follows a consistent pattern applicable to all suspended second chords:
- Root Note: The foundational note, in this case, A.
- Second Note of the Root Scale: The 2nd degree of the A major scale, which is B.
- Fifth Note of the Root Scale: The 5th degree of the A major scale, which is E.
This specific combination of root, second, and fifth creates the suspended quality of the Asus2, distinguishing it from major and minor chords and giving it its characteristic open and unresolved sound.
The Versatile Sound of the Asus2 Chord Across Genres
The Asus2 chord possesses a distinctive voice that makes its presence felt in any musical context. It’s not inherently joyful or sorrowful, yet it’s far from neutral. Instead, the Asus2 evokes a sense of contemplation, a feeling of looking inward that can lean towards either positive reflection or poignant introspection. This unique emotional ambiguity makes it incredibly versatile across diverse musical genres.
Asus2 in Rock Anthems
Reflecting the wistful yet slightly edgy character of the Asus2, Nickelback’s hit “How You Remind Me” effectively uses the chord to underscore the questioning and self-reflection that often accompanies a failed relationship.
Similarly, the Rolling Stones’ timeless anthem “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” employs the Asus2 to capture the complex emotions of reflection, pain, and the search for hope amidst disappointment.
Mr. Mister’s 1985 ballad, “Broken Wings,” also incorporates the Asus2 chord, adding an unexpected layer of depth to the introspective nature of the song.
In a more upbeat context, the Asus2 chord features in Bad Company’s energetic “Rock n’ Roll Fantasy” and Stone Temple Pilots’ driving track “Interstate Love Song.” In these songs, the chord’s ambiguous tonality is utilized to its full potential within faster tempos, showcasing its adaptability.
Asus2 in Pop Ballads
Conjuring images of 80s proms and school dances, The Outfield’s “Your Love” is a quintessential example of a cheerful ballad that dominated dance floors. The Asus2 contributes to its lighthearted yet emotionally resonant feel, explaining its enduring appeal and numerous covers by artists ranging from Wyclef Jean to Katy Perry, and even metalcore band I See Stars.
Suzanne Vega’s “Luka” presents a stark contrast. While seemingly buoyant acoustically, the song tackles the somber subject of child abuse. The Asus2 chord here acts as a poignant bridge, musically representing the delicate balance between lost innocence and the facade of normalcy.
Asus2 in Country and Folk Melodies
Blake Shelton’s introspective country track, “Came Here to Forget,” effectively utilizes the Asus2 chord to capture the wistful mood of reflecting on past relationships while seeking a fresh start. The chord perfectly complements the song’s theme of shrugging off regret and embracing the present moment.
Damien Rice’s contemporary folk masterpiece, “9 Crimes,” showcases the Asus2 in a deeply emotional context. In this sparse and haunting duet, the chord accentuates the raw emotion, leaning towards the more melancholic side of the Asus2’s expressive range.
Having explored the diverse applications of the Asus2 chord and understood its construction, the best way to truly grasp its potential is to experiment with it yourself. Start playing the Asus2 chord and discover how this simple yet evocative chord can enrich your guitar playing and songwriting.
To expand your chord vocabulary further, explore Fender Play’s extensive chord library for a wealth of resources. And if you’re not already a member, sign up for a free Fender Play trial.
