The C9 guitar chord (C dominant 9th) is a vibrant and complex chord that adds a jazzy, colorful sound to your music. It’s often used in blues, jazz, and funk to create a strong sense of tension and resolution. In this guide, you’ll learn how to play the C9 chord, common mistakes, tips, variations, and more.
What is a C9 Guitar Chord?
The C9 chord is a dominant chord that includes a major third, a perfect fifth, a minor seventh, and a ninth. It’s a great way to add some extra flavor and tension to your chord progressions, making it a staple in many musical styles.
C9 Formula:
- Root (C)
- Major third (E)
- Perfect fifth (G)
- Minor seventh (B♭)
- Ninth (D)
How to Play the C9 Guitar Chord
The C9 chord, or C Dominant 9, is an extended dominant chord that adds a jazzy, funky, or bluesy feel to your music. It consists of the notes C (root), E (major 3rd), G (perfect 5th), Bb (minor 7th), and D (9th). Here’s how to play it and the tonal effects it creates.
C9 Standard Voicing
This voicing has a bright, funky, and rhythmic quality, making it a go-to chord for blues, funk, and jazz. Its balanced structure gives it a strong, dominant sound while the 9th adds a touch of sophistication.
How to Play:
- Place your index finger across the 3rd fret of the G, B, and high E strings (barre).
- Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the A string (C note).
- Place your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (E note).
- Strum from the A string downward, avoiding the low E string for a clean sound.
C9 Barre Voicing
This barre voicing delivers a fuller, more resonant tone. It’s perfect for comping in jazz or adding a bluesy edge in solos.
How to Play:
- Barre the 8th fret across all strings with your index finger.
- Place your ring finger on the 10th fret of the A string (G note).
- Place your middle finger on the 9th fret of the G string (Bb note).
- Strum all six strings for a rich and powerful sound.
C9 Funk Voicing
A lighter voicing often used in funk for rhythmic grooves. Its tight shape makes it ideal for quick chord changes and rhythmic playing.
How to Play:
- Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (E note).
- Use your middle finger to barre the 3rd fret across the G, B, and high E strings.
- Strum only the A, D, G, B, and high E strings.
C9 Jazz Voicing
A compact and mellow voicing, great for jazz comping or smooth transitions. The muted low E and high E strings create a focused sound.
How to Play:
- Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the A string (C note).
- Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (E note).
- Use your ring finger to barre the 3rd fret across the G and B strings.
- Mute the low E and high E strings for clarity.
When to Use the C9 Chord
- Blues Progressions: Often appears as the V chord in 12-bar blues. Try G7 → F9 → C9 for a classic blues ending.
- Funk Grooves: Ideal for rhythmic strumming and syncopation in funk tracks.
- Jazz Standards: Use it in ii-V-I progressions like Dm7 → G9 → C9 for a smooth jazz sound.
- Pop and Rock: Adds a sophisticated edge when used as a substitution for standard C7 chords.
Songs Featuring the C9 Chord
“Superstition” – Stevie Wonder
How to Use C9:
This funky classic relies on dominant 9 chords to create a groovy rhythm. Use C9 in place of basic C7 chords in the rhythm sections.
Suggested Progression:
C9 → G9 → F9 → C9
Strum sharply with a syncopated rhythm for the full funky feel.
“The Thrill is Gone” – B.B. King
How to Use C9:
This blues staple benefits from dominant 9 chords in its turnarounds. Use C9 as part of the 12-bar blues structure.
Suggested Progression:
C9 → F9 → G9 → C9
Add some subtle bends and slides to accentuate the bluesy tone.
“I Got You (I Feel Good)” – James Brown
How to Use C9:
This iconic funk track heavily uses dominant 9 chords to create its infectious groove. C9 can substitute C7 to add richness.
Suggested Progression:
C9 → Bb9 → F9 → C9
Focus on short, percussive strums to mimic the punchy rhythm.
“Chameleon” – Herbie Hancock
How to Use C9:
While primarily an instrumental, this jazz-funk classic relies on extended chords like C9 for its smooth, groovy feel.
Suggested Progression:
C9 → F9 → Bb9 → C9
Use light picking or palm-muted strums to create a jazzy atmosphere.
“Kansas City” – Various Artists (Blues Standard)
How to Use C9:
This classic blues tune uses dominant 9 chords to bring swing and energy to the progression.
Suggested Progression:
C9 → G9 → F9 → C9
Play with a steady shuffle rhythm for an authentic blues feel.
Mastering the C9 chord opens up a world of blues, jazz, and funk possibilities, adding richness and complexity to your music. From iconic classics to modern grooves, the C9 chord is a must-know for every guitarist.
For more tips, tutorials, and deep dives into your favorite chords and songs, visit AGuitar Blog—your trusted guide to elevating your guitar skills. Keep strumming, stay inspired
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