The Bm6 guitar chord (B minor 6) is a unique and sophisticated chord that adds emotional depth to your playing. It combines the melancholy feel of the minor chord with the bright, jazzy tone of the 6th note. This chord is widely used in jazz, blues, and pop music for its rich, complex sound.
What is the Bm6 Guitar Chord?
The Bm6 chord is a minor chord with an added 6th interval. It contains the following notes:
- B (Root)
- D (Minor 3rd)
- F# (Perfect 5th)
- G# (Major 6th)
The Bm6 chord provides a melancholic yet jazzy flavor that works well in various genres, especially when you need a chord that resolves gently but still adds some tension.
How to Play the Bm6 Guitar Chord
Here are a few common ways to play the Bm6 chord:
A. Open Position Bm6 (Simplified Version)
- Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th string (A).
- Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the 2nd string (B).
- Place your ring finger on the 4th fret of the 3rd string (G).
- Strum from the 5th string down, muting the low E string.
B. Barre Chord (Root on 5th String, 2nd Fret)
- Barre your index finger across the strings at the 2nd fret, from the 5th string (A) to the 1st string (high E).
- Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the 2nd string (B).
- Place your ring finger on the 4th fret of the 3rd string (G).
- Strum from the 5th string down.
C. Barre Chord (Root on 6th String, 7th Fret)
- Barre your index finger across all six strings at the 7th fret.
- Place your middle finger on the 8th fret of the 2nd string (B).
- Place your ring finger on the 9th fret of the 4th string (D).
- Place your pinky finger on the 9th fret of the 3rd string (G).
- Strum all six strings.
Video Tutorial
For visual learners, check out this step-by-step video tutorial to master the Bm6 guitar chord. Watch as the chord is broken down with clear finger positioning and strumming tips.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Muted Strings: Ensure each string rings clearly. Pay attention to finger placement to avoid muting any string unintentionally.
- Too Much Pressure: Applying too much pressure on the strings can cause them to sound sharp. Keep your fingers relaxed and position them just behind the frets.
- Overstrumming: Focus on the strings needed for the chord. Avoid strumming unnecessary strings, especially in open voicings.
Tips for Playing the Bm6 Guitar Chord
- Start Slow: If you’re new to the Bm6 chord, practice each shape slowly to get comfortable with the finger positioning.
- Use Finger Strength: Barre chords can be tricky, so make sure to press down evenly across the fretboard for clean notes.
- Experiment with Timing: Try using the Bm6 chord in different rhythmic patterns to find how it fits into various styles.
Chord Progressions Featuring Bm6
The Bm6 chord works well in progressions that need a soft resolution or a jazzy flair. Here are a few examples:
- Bm6 – E – A (Smooth pop progression)
- Bm6 – G – D (Folk progression with a twist)
- Bm6 – F#7 – Bm (Jazz/blues progression)
Related Chords to Bm6
Explore these related chords for more variety in your playing:
- Bm: The base minor chord that the Bm6 is built upon.
- Bmaj7: A major 7th chord that offers a contrasting sound to the Bm6.
- F#7: A dominant 7th chord that often follows or precedes Bm6 in progressions.
Why Learn the Bm6 Guitar Chord?
The Bm6 chord offers a fresh, jazzy twist on the typical minor chord. Its sophisticated sound can add depth to your progressions and enrich your musical compositions. Whether you’re playing jazz, blues, or pop, learning the Bm6 chord opens up new possibilities for creating emotional and intricate chord sequences.
Conclusion
The Bm6 guitar chord is an excellent addition to your chord repertoire, offering a balance between melancholy and jazzy sophistication. Mastering this chord will help you expand your musical range and bring fresh sounds to your playing. Practice the different voicings, experiment with progressions, and enjoy the unique sound of the Bm6 chord.