The B13 guitar chord is an extended chord that adds a sophisticated, rich sound to your playing. It combines the notes of a B dominant 7th chord with added extensions—specifically the 9th, 11th, and 13th notes—creating a vibrant and colorful sound often heard in jazz, blues, and funk. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the B13 chord, including its structure, how to play it, and how to use it in various musical contexts.
What is the B13 Guitar Chord?
The B13 chord is a dominant 13th chord, which means it includes the root (B), major third (D#), perfect fifth (F#), minor seventh (A), major ninth (C#), perfect eleventh (E), and the thirteenth (G#). However, many of these notes can be omitted in practice, as the chord is often simplified for easier playing while maintaining its harmonic essence.
B13 Chord Formula:
- Root: B
- Major 3rd: D#
- Perfect 5th: F#
- Minor 7th: A
- Major 9th: C#
- Perfect 11th: E
- Major 13th: G#
How to Play the B13 Guitar Chord
B13 Chord (1st fret)
The B13 chord is a rich, jazzy chord that combines the major 13th interval with a B dominant 7th. Here’s a common shape for the B13 chord on the 1st fret:
- Low E string (6th string): Mute or don’t play.
- A string (5th string): 2nd fret (B) – Use your middle finger.
- D string (4th string): 1st fret (D#) – Use your index finger.
- G string (3rd string): 2nd fret (A) – Use your ring finger.
- B string (2nd string): 3rd fret (G#) – Use your pinky.
- High E string (1st string): 2nd fret (C#) – Use your middle finger (barring slightly if necessary).
Simplified B13 Chord (Easier Version)
- Place your index finger across the 7th fret to bar all strings (root position).
- Place your ring finger on the 9th fret of the A string (5th string) (F# note).
- Place your middle finger on the 8th fret of the D string (4th string) (A note).
- Let the high E string ring open for the 13th (G#).
- Strum from the A string down (don’t play the low E string).
This simplified version omits the 9th and 11th notes, but still captures the essence of the B13 chord.
Full B13 Chord (More Complex Shape)
- Barre the 7th fret with your index finger (across all strings).
- Place your ring finger on the 9th fret of the D string (4th string) (A note).
- Place your pinky finger on the 9th fret of the G string (3rd string) (C# note).
- Place your middle finger on the 8th fret of the B string (2nd string) (E note).
- Let the high E string ring open for the G# note (13th).
- Strum from the A string down, making sure to mute the low E string.
This variation provides the full harmonic structure of the B13 chord, but it may require more finger flexibility.
Alternate B13 Position (Simplified)
- Place your index finger on the 7th fret of the low E string (B note).
- Place your middle finger on the 7th fret of the D string (A note).
- Place your ring finger on the 9th fret of the G string (F# note).
- Place your pinky finger on the 9th fret of the B string (C# note).
- Let the high E string ring open for the 13th (G#).
- Strum from the low E string down to the high E string.
This version omits some notes, like the 9th and the 11th, but it’s a more comfortable position to play.
Common Mistakes When Playing the B13 Guitar Chord
- Not muting strings properly: Since the B13 chord can have many notes, it’s crucial to mute any unneeded strings, particularly the low E string in some versions.
- Incorrect finger positioning: Ensure that your fingers are pressing down on the correct frets and that your barre finger isn’t accidentally muting any strings that need to ring.
- Overcomplicating the chord: Beginners often try to play all the extensions (9th, 11th, 13th) when starting out. For ease, focus on the simplified version until you’re comfortable.
Tips for Mastering the B13 Guitar Chord
- Start Slowly: Practice the chord in segments. Focus on pressing down the barre cleanly and strumming without muted notes.
- Use Your Thumb: Place your thumb on the back of the neck to support your hand and press the barre effectively.
- Gradual Addition of Notes: Start with the basic B7 chord and add extensions gradually as you get more comfortable.
Chord Progressions Featuring B13
The B13 chord often appears in dominant function progressions, where it resolves to the tonic (I) chord. Here are a few examples:
A. Standard Jazz Progression
B13 – E7 – Amaj7 – Dmaj7
B. Blues Progression with a Twist
B13 – F#9 – E13 – B13
C. Funky Groove Progression
B13 – A9 – G9 – F#13
Songs Featuring the B13 Guitar Chord
The B13 chord, with its dominant sound, is often used in jazz, blues, and funk. Here are some songs where you might encounter it:
- “Sir Duke” by Stevie Wonder: Funk-infused with jazzy chord progressions.
- “Back In Black” by AC/DC: Uses dominant chords like B13 in a rock context.
- “Georgia On My Mind” by Ray Charles: A jazz standard that occasionally uses the B13 chord to create tension.
Video Tutorial for B13 Guitar Chord
Check out this step-by-step video tutorial to learn the B13 chord visually and more effectively. It walks you through various positions and common progressions using the B13.
Variations of the B13 Guitar Chord
- B13 with a Flat 9 (B13♭9): This variation adds a flattened 9th (C) for an even more dissonant, tension-filled sound.
- B13 with a Suspended 4th (B13sus4): A suspended 4th adds a more open sound, great for a blues or funk riff.
How to Use the B13 Guitar Chord in Your Music
- Jazz & Blues: The B13 chord works wonderfully in blues progressions, especially resolving to an E chord. It’s also essential in jazz when playing dominant 7th chords and adding complexity.
- Rock & Funk: You can substitute the standard dominant chords with B13 for a grittier, more dynamic feel. In funk, it can be used as part of a rhythm section to give the song a punchy feel.
Conclusion
The B13 guitar chord is a versatile, complex chord that will enrich your playing in genres like jazz, blues, and funk. With its extended harmony, the B13 chord adds texture and depth, making it an essential tool in the hands of musicians who love to explore new sonic landscapes.
Start by mastering the simplified versions of the B13 chord, and then experiment with its variations and progressions. With practice, the B13 chord will become a powerful tool in your musical vocabulary!