The Bm7 chord, or B minor 7, adds a distinct and somewhat brighter flavor to the standard B minor chord. This seventh chord injects an extra layer of interest, making it a favorite in various musical genres, from rock to pop and beyond. Its unique sound sets it apart and offers a richer harmonic palette for guitarists.
In this lesson, we’ll explore two effective ways to play the Bm7 chord on your guitar. We’ll also delve into the music theory behind the chord and highlight popular songs that feature the Bm7. Ready to enrich your chord vocabulary? Let’s dive in and discover the Bm7 guitar chord.
Understanding the Notes of a Bm7 Chord
The Bm7 chord is built from four key notes:
- B (Root)
- D (Minor Third)
- F# (Perfect Fifth)
- A (Minor Seventh)
When discussing chord construction, it’s helpful to understand the formulas behind them. Minor chords and major chords follow specific patterns, and seventh chords, like Bm7, introduce an additional element. Specifically, a minor seventh chord is created by adding a minor 7th interval to a minor triad. This minor 7th is what lifts the B minor chord, transforming its sometimes somber tone into the more nuanced and versatile Bm7.
In terms of intervals, the Bm7 chord consists of: the root note (B), a minor third above the root (D), a perfect fifth above the root (F#), and a minor seventh above the root (A).
Playing these four notes – B, D, F#, and A – together will produce a Bm7 chord.
Bm7 Chord in Open Position (Version 1)
One of the most common ways to play the Bm7 chord is in the open position. “Open position” refers to chord voicings that utilize open strings, meaning some strings ring out without being fretted. This is particularly useful for beginners and offers a resonant sound. This first version in standard tuning is accessible and sounds great.
To play the open position Bm7 chord, position your fingers on the following frets and strings:
- Index finger: 2nd fret of the A (5th) string
- Middle finger: 2nd fret of the G (3rd) string
- Ring finger: 2nd fret of the high E (1st) string
Strum downwards across five strings, starting from the A (5th) string, and avoid strumming the low E (6th) string. This open position Bm7 can be slightly challenging at first as you need to ensure the D (4th) and B (2nd) strings ring clearly. Focus on fretting the notes cleanly to avoid accidentally muting adjacent strings that should be played open. With a little practice, you’ll achieve a crisp and clear sounding Bm7 chord in this position.
Bm7 Chord in 2nd Position (Version 2)
Another popular and movable way to play the Bm7 chord is in the 2nd position. Playing in the “2nd position” means that no open strings are used; the lowest note of the chord starts on the 2nd fret. This position utilizes a barre chord technique, where your index finger presses down multiple strings at the same fret.
This 2nd position Bm7 chord requires barring across five strings at the 2nd fret. Here’s how to form it:
- Index finger: Barre across the 2nd fret of the A (5th), G (3rd), and high E (1st) strings
- Middle finger: 3rd fret of the B (2nd) string
- Ring finger: 4th fret of the D (4th) string
Strum five strings downwards from the A (5th) string, again omitting the low E string. This barre chord version of Bm7 is particularly useful when you need to transition smoothly to other barre chords in different songs and positions on the neck. Mastering barre chords opens up a world of chord possibilities on the guitar.
Songs Featuring the Bm7 Chord
The Bm7 chord’s upbeat yet mellow character makes it suitable for a wide range of musical styles. Let’s explore a couple of songs that showcase the versatility of the Bm7 chord. Listen for it in these tracks and try playing along! You can access these songs and many more when you start a free trial with Fender Play.
“Frosty the Snowman” by Gene Autry: This classic holiday tune, recorded in 1950, is a testament to the Bm7’s timeless appeal. Country artist Gene Autry incorporated jangly, cheerful chords throughout this song about a magical snowman. The Bm7 chord makes a notable appearance in the bridge section, adding to the song’s whimsical and lighthearted feel. Its inclusion highlights how even simple chord progressions can be enriched with a well-placed seventh chord.
“Chrissie Hynde” by Butch Walker: Switching gears to a more contemporary example, Butch Walker’s 2014 song “Chrissie Hynde” is an homage to The Pretenders’ iconic lead singer. Walker skillfully integrates the open position Bm7 chord we discussed earlier into the chorus of this nostalgic and longing track. The Bm7 here adds a layer of emotional depth, demonstrating the chord’s ability to evoke different moods depending on the musical context. It’s a great example of how the Bm7 can be used in modern singer-songwriter music to create a memorable and evocative sound.
Continue Your Chord Journey with Fender Play
Learning guitar chords is a fundamental skill for any aspiring guitarist. Chords not only reveal how notes harmonize but also form the building blocks for playing countless songs. To expand your chord knowledge and skills further, explore Fender Play’s extensive chord library. Once you’re comfortable with the Bm7 chord, experiment with incorporating it into your favorite songs and chord progressions. Unlock your musical potential and discover a world of songs with a free trial of Fender Play today.
