The B minor chord, often abbreviated as “Bm” in chord charts and tabs, is a fundamental chord for any guitarist to learn. Its presence is pervasive in popular music, making it an indispensable tool in your guitar playing arsenal. Understanding why the Bm chord is so important and mastering its various forms will significantly expand your musical horizons.
Why is the Bm Chord Essential?
The Bm chord’s significance stems from its frequent appearance in common musical keys, particularly D major and G major. These keys are cornerstones of guitar-based music across various genres. Chord progressions in D and G major often naturally incorporate the Bm chord, making it crucial for playing countless songs. If you aim to play along with your favorite tunes or write your own music, knowing the Bm chord is not just helpful – it’s essential.
Songs That Showcase the Bm Chord Across Genres
The Bm chord isn’t confined to a single genre; its versatility is evident in its widespread use across rock, pop, country, and beyond. Its minor tonality adds depth and emotion to songs, contributing to both melancholic ballads and energetic anthems.
Rock Anthems and Bm Chord
Dive into rock history and you’ll quickly discover the Bm chord. From the glam metal era, Warrant’s hit “Heaven” features the Bm chord prominently. For a power ballad classic, listen to “Love Song” by Tesla, where the Bm adds to the song’s emotional intensity.
Going further back, Elvis Presley’s “Burning Love” incorporates the Bm for a fiery energy. Even punk-ska rhythms aren’t immune, as Rancid’s “Time Bomb showcases the chord’s versatility in faster tempos.
Country Classics and Modern Bm
Country music also embraces the Bm chord. George Strait’s Grammy-nominated hit “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” is a prime example of its use in classic country. Willie Nelson’s timeless “Always on My Mind” further demonstrates the chord’s emotional depth in country ballads.
For a more contemporary country sound, explore “Never Come Back Again” by Austin Plaine, illustrating the Bm chord’s continued relevance in modern country music.
Pop Sensations and the Bm Chord
Pop music, known for its catchy melodies and chord progressions, frequently utilizes the Bm chord. Beach Boys’ classic beach anthem “California Girls” and The Monkees’ feel-good hit “Daydream Believer” demonstrate its use in vintage pop.
Contemporary pop examples include Plain White T’s’ catchy “1,2,3,4” and Tom Odell’s soulful “Another Love”, proving the Bm chord’s enduring appeal in modern pop songwriting.
Beginner-Friendly Bm Chord Version
Before tackling the barre chord versions, let’s start with an easier Bm chord shape that avoids barring. This version is perfect for beginners and provides a solid foundation for understanding the chord’s sound.
To play this beginner Bm:
- Place your ring finger on the 4th fret of the G (3rd) string.
- Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the B (2nd) string.
- Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the high E (1st) string.
Strum only the top three strings (G, B, and high E strings) downwards. This three-finger version is an excellent starting point for learning the Bm chord and getting its sound into your ear.
The Most Common Bm Barre Chord Shape
The most widely recognized and frequently used Bm chord is a barre chord. Unlike minor chords like Em or Am that incorporate open strings, the Bm barre chord requires fretting multiple strings with your index finger. This technique, known as barring, might seem challenging initially, but it’s a crucial skill to develop for any guitarist.
Here’s how to play the common Bm barre chord in the 2nd position:
- Barre your index finger across all strings from the A string (5th string) to the high E string (1st string) at the 2nd fret.
- Ensure the index finger presses down all five strings cleanly.
- Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the B (2nd) string.
- Place your ring finger on the 4th fret of the D (4th) string.
- Place your pinky finger on the 4th fret of the G (3rd) string.
Strum downwards from the A string (5th string), avoiding the low E string (6th string). This five-string barre chord is what most guitarists envision when they think of the Bm chord and is considered a must-know shape.
If you are familiar with the open Am chord shape, you’ll notice a resemblance. The Bm barre chord in this position is essentially the Am shape moved up two frets. The challenge often lies in ensuring the bass note is the B on the 5th string while muting the low E string.
To mute the low E string, slightly angle your index finger so that the tip of your index finger gently touches the low E string, just enough to silence it when you strum. This allows you to strum confidently without the unwanted sound of the low E string interfering with the chord.
When you first attempt this barre chord, you might encounter buzzing sounds due to insufficient pressure or improper finger placement. This is perfectly normal. Consistent practice and building finger and wrist strength will resolve these issues over time, leading to a clean and clear Bm chord sound.
Alternative Bm Barre Chord in the 7th Position
Having an alternative voicing for the Bm chord can be beneficial, providing a slightly different tonal color and sometimes offering a more comfortable playing experience depending on the context of the song. The barre chord shape in the 7th position offers such an alternative.
Here’s how to play the Bm barre chord in the 7th position:
- Barre your index finger across all six strings at the 7th fret.
- Ensure all six strings are cleanly fretted by your index finger.
- Place your ring finger on the 9th fret of the A (5th) string.
- Place your pinky finger on the 9th fret of the D (4th) string.
Strum all six strings. A key advantage of this 7th position barre chord is the reduced finger pressure required compared to lower positions. The frets are closer together higher up the neck, making barring slightly easier on the fingers.
Conclusion: Embrace the Bm Chord
The Bm chord, while potentially presenting initial hurdles for beginner guitarists, is an essential stepping stone in your guitar journey. Regardless of your preferred genre – be it pop, rock, folk, blues, or country – mastering the Bm chord is a worthwhile investment of your practice time. Its ubiquitous presence in music makes it a chord you’ll encounter and utilize constantly.
To further expand your chord knowledge, explore comprehensive guitar chord libraries and resources that delve into various chord types and provide tips for mastering them. Consistent practice and dedication to learning chords like the Bm will unlock a vast world of musical possibilities on the guitar.
