The Em7 chord, or E minor seventh, is a staple for guitarists seeking a rich and evocative sound. Composed of the notes E, G, B, and D, this chord’s minor key and 7th interval create a depth that’s both intriguing and beautiful. For beginner guitar players, the good news is that there are several accessible ways to play Em7 in open position using standard tuning, without sacrificing its full, resonant tone. Let’s explore some of these essential Em7 Guitar Tab variations and see how they’re used in popular songs.
Simple Em7 Guitar Tab: The One-Finger Wonder
If you’re already familiar with the open E minor chord, or even if you’re just starting your guitar journey, this Em7 guitar tab formation is incredibly easy to learn. It involves fretting just one note while strumming all six strings, making it a fantastic entry point to this chord.
- Middle finger: 2nd fret of the A (5th) string
Strumming down from the low E string, you’ll hear the notes E, B, D, G, B, and E, from lowest to highest. This simple Em7 guitar tab shape delivers a surprisingly deep and full sound.
This easy-to-grasp version of the Em7 chord is famously featured in Marvin Gaye’s timeless hit, “Let’s Get It On.” The song’s chord progression is intentionally repetitive and straightforward, providing the perfect foundation for the song’s sensual groove. The Em7 in this context creates a consistent harmonic backdrop that allows other elements to shine: Gaye’s soulful vocals, the iconic wah-wah guitar, soaring horns, and subtly powerful drums.
Mastering this simple Em7 guitar tab is a quick win, opening the door to playing classic songs like this 1973 chart-topper and adding a valuable chord to your repertoire.
Higher Voicing Em7 Guitar Tab: Delicate and Expressive
Here’s another essential Em7 guitar tab in open position, offering a higher and more delicate voicing. In this variation, you’ll omit the lower E and A strings, focusing on the higher register of the chord.
Position your pinky and ring fingers on the 3rd fret of the high E and B strings respectively. Then, stretch your middle finger to the 2nd fret on the 4th string (D string in standard tuning).
- Middle finger: 2nd fret of the D (4th) string
- Ring finger: 3rd fret of the B (2nd) string
- Pinky finger: 3rd fret of the E (1st) string
Strumming four strings downwards from the D string produces this higher-pitched Em7. This version provides a brighter, more delicate sound compared to the previous one.
This Em7 guitar tab variation is perfect for moments requiring a lighter touch, such as the bridge in Elliott Smith’s poignant song “Say Yes.” Featured on his 1997 album Either/Or and in the Good Will Hunting soundtrack, “Say Yes” showcases the beauty of this particular Em7 voicing.
In the bridge of “Say Yes,” the guitar work highlights Smith’s musical genius and the subtle power of this Em7. During the lines, “Crooked spin can’t come to rest. I’m damaged bad, at best,” the guitar transitions through a series of complex chords with remarkable fluidity. This is made possible, in part, by the efficient finger positioning of this Em7 shape. The pinky and ring fingers remain anchored while the index finger manages the moving bass notes, demonstrating a smart and effective chord voicing choice. The bridge culminates in the song’s central theme: “They want you or they don’t. Say yes.” This song alone is a compelling reason to explore and master the guitar.
Full and Rich Em7 Guitar Tab: The 6-String Version
Let’s explore one final, commonly used Em7 guitar tab in open position. This formation combines elements of the previous two, delivering the fullest and richest sound of the Em7 chord in open position.
- Index finger: 2nd fret of the A (5th) string
- Middle finger: 2nd fret of the D (4th) string
- Ring finger: 3rd fret of the B (2nd) string
- Pinky finger: 3rd fret of the E (1st) string
Strum all six strings for this version. While it requires a bit more finger stretching, the resulting sound is significantly richer and more complex, encompassing the full tonal range of the guitar.
As you gain more experience playing guitar, you’ll start to appreciate the subtle nuances between these different Em7 guitar tab formations. Listening to this full 6-string version, it’s clear why Oasis chose it for their anthemic song “Live Forever.” This Em7 kicks in at the chorus with the line “Maybe I just wanna fly,” and its fullness complements the band’s signature use of expanded chords. Recognizing these patterns is a key part of musical development. Every musician builds a unique sonic identity through choices like chord voicings and selections.
To expand your chord vocabulary, explore Fender Play’s extensive chord library. You can delve into different chord types and discover valuable tips for mastering them, enriching your understanding of guitar theory and technique.
Ready to start crafting your own signature sound? Begin your free trial of Fender Play today to learn more essential guitar chords like the Em7 and play songs that truly inspire you.
