The G suspended 2 chord, often written as Gsus2, brings a unique flavor to guitar music. It’s categorized as a suspended chord, meaning it omits the third interval and replaces it with a second. This substitution creates a sound that’s neither major nor minor, sharing a characteristic with power chords in its ambiguity and raw energy.
Gsus2 chords are built using the root, second, and fifth degrees of the major scale. The interval between the root and the second note generates a noticeable tension, contributing to the chord’s inherent punch and slightly unresolved quality. This makes the Gsus2 a powerful tool for adding depth and emotion to your guitar playing.
Let’s explore how to play the Gsus2 chord on guitar, delve into its sonic characteristics, and discover popular songs that effectively utilize its distinctive sound.
Decoding the Notes of a Gsus2 Chord
Similar to the familiar G major chord, the Gsus2 chord includes the foundational notes G and D. However, the key difference lies in the third note. Instead of the B note found in G major, Gsus2 incorporates an A note.
Therefore, the three core notes that construct the Gsus2 chord are:
G, A, and D
Mastering the Gsus2 Chord Shape
One widely recognized method for playing the Gsus2 chord, particularly favored in rock music, involves drop D tuning. Drop D tuning is a popular alternative tuning, especially in genres that utilize power chords extensively. If you’re new to alternate tunings, don’t worry! Adjusting to drop D is straightforward and easily reversible.
Drop D tuning only requires altering a single string – your low E string is tuned down a whole step from standard E to D, matching the pitch of your open D string.
To play the drop D version of the Gsus2 chord, start by using your index finger to barre across the 5th fret, covering both the low E string (which is now tuned to D in drop D tuning) and the A string. Next, place your ring finger on the 7th fret of the D string.
When strumming, focus on playing only the lowest three strings: the D (formerly low E), A, and D strings.
- Index finger: 5th fret of the low D (6th) string
- Index finger: 5th fret of the A (5th) string
- Ring finger: 7th fret of the D (4th) string
Strum 3 strings down from the low D (6th) string
Songs Powered by the Gsus2 Chord
The Gsus2 chord, especially in its drop D form, is perfectly suited for a range of musical styles including rock, metal, blues, and folk. Its versatility allows it to enhance different genres with its unique sonic character. Here are some diverse songs that will provide excellent practice for your Gsus2 chord technique and demonstrate its application in real musical contexts.
“Everlong” by Foo Fighters, a defining alternative rock anthem of the late 1990s, brilliantly showcases the essence of the Gsus2 chord. The song’s driving, almost hypnotic rhythm is powerfully amplified by the distorted punch of the Gsus2 chord. The rhythmic guitar work in “Everlong” is reminiscent of Dave Grohl’s earlier drumming style in Nirvana, adding a layer of musical history to the track.
Led Zeppelin’s “The Rain Song” exemplifies the Gsus2 chord’s versatility. Blending rock, blues, and folk elements, Jimmy Page masterfully integrates the chord into this atmospheric piece that evokes shifting seasons and complex emotions. The Gsus2 in “The Rain Song” contributes to its rich texture and emotional depth.
Sheryl Crow utilizes the Gsus2 chord in her 1996 hit, “If It Makes You Happy.” The chord’s slightly off-kilter quality complements the song’s quirky and somewhat whimsical feel, adding an unexpected melodic twist to its introspective and slightly nonsensical lyrics. This unexpected chord choice aligns with the song’s lyrical style, creating a unique pop sensibility.
Finally, the epic ballad “I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That)” by Meat Loaf, a major comeback hit from 1993, features the Gsus2 chord prominently in its verses. In this 12-minute musical journey, the Gsus2 chord enhances the emotional intensity of the verses, contributing to the song’s overall dramatic and heartfelt impact as a duet.
Exploring the Gsus2 chord opens up new sonic possibilities on the guitar. Its suspended quality and unique tension make it a valuable addition to any guitarist’s chord vocabulary, enriching your playing and songwriting with expressive depth.
