The B minor chord (Bm) is a foundational chord for guitarists of all genres. Often abbreviated as “Bm” in chord charts and tabs, this chord is a frequent visitor in countless songs and understanding it is crucial for expanding your musical repertoire. If you’re looking to progress your guitar skills, learning the Bm chord is an essential step.
Why is the Bm Chord So Important?
The Bm chord is not just another chord to learn; it’s a gateway to playing a vast number of popular songs. Its importance stems from its prominent role in common key signatures used in guitar music, particularly the keys of D major and G major. Many chord progressions in these keys naturally incorporate the B minor, making it indispensable for playing songs in these keys. Mastering Bm opens up access to a huge library of songs.
Songs You Can Play with the Bm Chord
The versatility of the Bm chord is undeniable, spanning across genres and decades. From rock anthems to country ballads and pop hits, Bm appears everywhere. Let’s explore some examples across different genres to highlight its widespread use.
Rock Anthems and Bm
Dive into rock music and you’ll quickly find the Bm chord. Consider the glam metal sounds of Warrant’s “Heaven” or the power ballad emotion in Tesla’s “Love Song.” Even classic rock and roll like Elvis Presley’s “Burning Love” incorporates the Bm. For a punk-ska vibe, listen to Rancid’s energetic track “Time Bomb.” These diverse rock examples showcase the Bm chord’s power and adaptability.
Country Classics Featuring Bm
Country music also embraces the Bm chord. George Strait’s Grammy-nominated hit “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” and Willie Nelson’s timeless “Always on My Mind” are prime examples of country songs that heavily feature this chord. For a more contemporary country sound, check out Austin Plaine’s “Never Come Back Again.”
Pop Sensations and the Bm Chord
Pop music, known for its catchy melodies and chord progressions, frequently utilizes the Bm chord. From the Beach Boys’ sunny “California Girls” to The Monkees’ classic “Daydream Believer,” Bm finds its place in pop history. Modern pop examples include Plain White T’s’ catchy “1,2,3,4” and Tom Odell’s soulful “Another Love.”
The Beginner-Friendly Bm Chord Version
For guitarists just starting their chord journey, the full barre chord version of Bm can be challenging. Thankfully, there’s a simplified version that avoids barring and is perfect for beginners to learn the essence of the Bm chord. This version allows you to play Bm without needing to fret across multiple strings with one finger.
Here’s how to play the beginner Bm chord:
- Place your ring finger on the 4th fret of the G string (3rd string).
- Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the B string (2nd string).
- Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the high E string (1st string).
Strum only the top three strings (G, B, and high E strings) downwards. This three-finger version provides a great starting point for understanding the Bm chord sound and is an excellent stepping stone to the more common barre chord shapes.
The Most Common Bm Barre Chord Shape
The most frequently used version of the Bm chord is a barre chord. Unlike minor chords like Em or Am which utilize open strings, the Bm barre chord requires you to fret multiple strings with your index finger. This technique, known as barring, is fundamental to playing many guitar chords.
Here’s how to play the standard Bm barre chord in the 2nd position:
- Place your index finger across all strings from the A string (5th string) to the high E string (1st string) at the 2nd fret, creating a barre.
- Ensure the index finger is also pressing down the low E string enough to mute it, or avoid strumming the low E string entirely.
- Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the B string (2nd string).
- Place your ring finger on the 4th fret of the G string (3rd string).
- Place your pinky finger on the 4th fret of the D string (4th string).
Strum downwards from the A string (5th string), avoiding the low E string. This is the Bm chord shape most guitarists envision when they think of playing B minor. It’s a must-know shape and is incredibly versatile as you can move this barre chord shape up and down the neck to play other minor chords.
If you are familiar with the open Am chord shape, you’ll recognize the similarity. The Bm barre chord is essentially the Am shape moved two frets higher up the neck. A common challenge with this chord is ensuring the B note is the bass note (on the 5th string) and effectively muting the low E string. A helpful tip is to slightly angle your index finger so that the side of your index finger gently touches and mutes the low E string. This allows for a full strum without the unwanted sound of the low E.
Initially, you might experience buzzing as you learn this barre chord. This is normal and usually resolves with practice as your finger and wrist strength improve, leading to cleaner fretting.
Alternative Bm Barre Chord in the 7th Position
Having different voicings of the same chord is beneficial for adding tonal variety to your playing. Another useful Bm barre chord shape is found higher up the neck in the 7th position. This version offers a slightly different sound and can be physically easier to play for some due to the closer fret spacing higher up the neck.
Here’s how to play the alternative Bm barre chord in the 7th position:
- Barre your index finger across all six strings at the 7th fret.
- Place your ring finger on the 9th fret of the A string (5th string).
- Place your pinky finger on the 9th fret of the D string (4th string).
Strum all six strings. The advantage of this 7th position Bm chord is that the frets are closer together, requiring slightly less finger pressure to fret all the strings cleanly. This can make it physically easier to play, especially during longer practice sessions or performances.
Tips for Mastering the Bm Chord
The Bm chord, especially the barre chord versions, can present an initial hurdle for beginner guitarists. Here are a few tips to help you master it:
- Practice Barre Technique: Focus on developing your barre technique separately. Practice barring across the strings with your index finger, ensuring each string rings out clearly. Apply consistent pressure across the fretboard.
- Finger Strength Exercises: Squeezing a stress ball or using hand grippers can help build the finger and hand strength needed for barre chords.
- Start Slowly: Don’t rush. Practice transitioning to and from the Bm chord slowly and deliberately. Focus on clean and accurate chord changes before increasing speed.
- Check Finger Placement: Ensure your fingers are positioned just behind the fret, and that you are applying pressure with the bony part of your finger, not the soft pad.
- Listen for Clarity: Strum each string individually to check if it rings out clearly. Identify any buzzing or muted strings and adjust your finger pressure and placement accordingly.
- Practice Chord Transitions: Practice switching between Bm and other common chords you know, such as G, D, or Em. This will help you incorporate Bm into your playing smoothly.
Conclusion
The Bm chord is an indispensable tool in any guitarist’s arsenal. While it might seem challenging at first, especially the barre chord versions, with consistent practice and the right techniques, you can master it. Whether you are drawn to pop, rock, country, blues, or folk music, taking the time to learn the Bm chord will significantly expand your musical capabilities and unlock a vast repertoire of songs.
To further enhance your chord knowledge, explore resources like Fender Play’s chord library to discover different chord types and get more tips on mastering guitar chords. Consistent practice and dedication are key to conquering the Bm chord and enriching your guitar playing journey.
