The E guitar chord stands as a cornerstone for anyone starting their musical journey with the guitar. Known formally as the E major chord, it’s among the first chords beginners typically learn, and for good reason. Its bright and uplifting sound resonates across countless songs in genres like rock, pop, and country. Whether you’re strumming in standard E tuning or exploring different voicings, the E chord’s cheerful character always shines through.
What’s fascinating about the E chord is its versatility in how it can be played. While the essence of the chord remains constant, guitarists can approach it with various fingerings, from simplified versions to more intricate patterns. The essential element, regardless of the chosen method, is to strum all six strings to capture the full, rich sound of the E chord.
Let’s delve into learning the standard version of the E major chord, a stepping stone to expanding your guitar skills.
Playing the Standard E Major Chord
Once you’ve become comfortable with simplified guitar chords, mastering the standard E chord is the next rewarding step. This version, widely favored by guitarists, utilizes your middle and ring fingers to create a fuller, more resonant E chord.
Here’s how to form the standard E chord in the open position:
- Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the G string (3rd string).
- Position your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string (5th string).
- Set your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (4th string).
Ensure you strum all six strings, starting from the low E string downwards, to fully voice the chord.
This standard E chord configuration produces a rich, sonorous sound, composed of the notes: E, B, E, G#, B, E. This full voicing is what gives the E chord its powerful presence in music.
Songs Powered by the E Chord
The E chord’s influence spans across music history, featuring in iconic rock anthems and timeless folk melodies. Its adaptability makes it a favorite among songwriters across genres. Let’s explore a selection of popular songs that prominently feature the E chord.
Rock Anthems
Rock music is rife with examples of the E chord’s impactful presence. Two legendary tracks, “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones and “Rock and Roll All Nite” by Kiss, are instantly recognizable partly due to their driving E chord rhythms.
ZZ Top’s hit “Legs” also showcases the E chord’s rock versatility. For a taste of psychedelic rock, listen to how Tame Impala incorporates the E chord into the dreamy soundscape of “Feels Like We Only Go Backwards.” If acoustic rock is more your style, U2’s “Desire” features the jangly E chord prominently, adding to its distinctive sound.
Folk Classics
The E chord is no stranger to folk music, appearing in pieces that range from ancient ballads to modern folk hits. “Greensleeves,” a timeless English folk ballad dating back centuries, beautifully employs the E chord in its melody.
In more contemporary folk, Fleet Foxes’ “White Winter Hymnal” demonstrates the E chord’s continued relevance in the genre, adding to the song’s harmonic texture.
Pop Sensations
Pop music, known for its catchy and bright melodies, naturally embraces the E chord. The Beach Boys’ iconic “Good Vibrations” uses the E chord to enhance its upbeat and sunny feel. Moving into modern pop-rock, Coldplay’s “Yellow” also relies on the fundamental E chord as part of its memorable chord progression.
Country Staples
From traditional country twang to modern country-pop crossovers, the E chord is a reliable component in country music. Whether it’s the classic country sound of George Strait’s “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” or contemporary hits, the E chord often anchors the chord progressions.
Female country artists have long utilized the E chord in their storytelling. Patsy Cline’s timeless “I Fall to Pieces,” Miranda Lambert’s sassy “Little Red Wagon,” and Reba McEntire’s soulful “In the Midnight Hour” all demonstrate the E chord’s role in country classics.
Blues and Rock Fusion
The E chord is equally at home in blues and blues-rock. Tracks like Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” blend soul with bluesy undertones, incorporating the E chord seamlessly. Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats’ energetic “S.O.B.” is a more recent example that bridges blues and rock with the E chord in its driving rhythm.
Exploring the roots of rock reveals blues songs that rock legends later popularized. Johnny Burnette’s “Train Kept a Rollin’” (famously covered by Aerosmith) and Billy Roberts’ “Hey Joe” (immortalized by Jimi Hendrix) are prime examples, both built around blues structures that include the E chord. For blues purists, Robert Petway’s “Catfish Blues” (covered by both Hendrix and Muddy Waters) and Bo Diddley’s “Who Do You Love” are essential listening, each featuring the foundational E chord.
Mastering the E chord unlocks a vast repertoire of songs and genres. Consistent practice is key to getting comfortable with the standard E chord and opening up a world of musical possibilities. To refine your technique and start playing songs, explore resources like Fender Play for guided lessons and song tutorials.
To further expand your chord knowledge, browse comprehensive chord libraries and delve into different chord types to enhance your guitar playing journey. If you’re looking for structured learning, consider starting a free trial with resources like Fender Play to accelerate your progress.
