Session 4 : More Blues Tools

Altered Ninth Chords

Ninth chords can also be adjusted to form other chords like 7(#9) or 7(b9). The altered 9th chord most used
in the blues is the 7(#9). The formula for a 7(#9) is 1-3-5-b7-b9.

In the key of C, a C7(#9) would be C-E-G-Bb-D#.

Here is a common way to play a C7(#9) on guitar that is popular in blues guitar playing.

13th Chords

Thirteenth chords are another common chord type used in blues. The formula for a major 13th chord is 1-3-
5-7-9-13. (In theory, the 11th is included in a 13th chord, but in practice the 11th is always omitted.)

In the key of C, a Cmaj13th would include these notes.

In the blues, the dominant 13th is more common. So, in the key of C, a C13th would include these notes.

Playing Tip

In blues, the 7(#9) chord is used as a substitute for

the V chord in a key.

For example in the key of A, the V chord would be an

E which could be substituted as an E7(#9).

Blues Guitar with Steve Krenz 49 http://www.learnandmaster.com/bluesresources