The C6 guitar chord is a warm, jazzy chord often used in jazz, pop, and acoustic genres. It adds a unique flavor to standard chord progressions by incorporating a sixth note into the chord, making it a versatile choice for creating a laid-back or mellow sound. In this guide, we’ll cover how to play the C6 chord, its variations, common mistakes, and practice tips.
What is a C6 Guitar Chord?
The C6 chord is a major chord with an added sixth note. It is built from the root note C, with the notes of E, G, and A added to form the chord. Unlike more complex chords like seventh chords, C6 has a relatively simple and pleasing sound, with the sixth note (A) adding brightness and color.
C6 Formula:
- Root (C)
- Major third (E)
- Perfect fifth (G)
- Major sixth (A)
How to Play the C6 Guitar Chord
The C6 chord, or C major 6, is a warm and jazzy chord that adds the 6th degree (A) to the standard C major triad (C, E, G). It’s a versatile chord that works beautifully in jazz, blues, bossa nova, and even pop music. Here are the most common variations of the C6 chord, along with detailed instructions for playing each one.
Open Position C6
This open-position voicing has a mellow and sweet sound, perfect for jazz or softer ballads. Its full and ringing tone makes it ideal for fingerpicking patterns.
How to Play:
- Mute the low E string with your thumb or avoid playing it.
- Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string (C note).
- Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (E note).
- Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string (A note).
- Place your pinky on the 3rd fret of the high E string (G note).
- Strum from the A string down.
C6 Barre Chord (Root on E String)
This voicing has a jazzy, precise tone, making it great for chord comping in jazz standards or smooth transitions in bossa nova progressions.
How to Play:
- Use your index finger to barre the 8th fret on the high E, B, and G strings.
- Place your middle finger on the 9th fret of the D string (A note).
- Place your ring finger on the 10th fret of the A string (C note).
- Mute the low E string by lightly touching it with your index finger.
- Strum from the A string down.
C6 Barre Chord (Root on A String)
This variation is compact and balanced, offering a bright, slightly muted tone suitable for rhythm guitar in pop and jazz settings.
How to Play:
- Mute the low E string.
- Place your index finger on the 3rd fret of the A string (C note).
- Use your middle finger on the 5th fret of the D string (G note).
- Use your ring finger to press the 5th fret of the B string (E note).
- Use your pinky to press the 5th fret of the G string (A note).
- Strum all strings except the low E.
C6 High Voicing
This high voicing has a bright, sparkling quality and is perfect for delicate melodic passages or jazz solos.
How to Play:
- Mute the low E and A strings.
- Place your index finger on the 9th fret of the G string (E note).
- Place your middle finger on the 10th fret of the B string (A note).
- Use your ring finger to press the 10th fret of the high E string (C note).
- Strum only the G, B, and high E strings.
C6 (Without the 5th)
This stripped-down voicing emphasizes the triadic quality of the chord while maintaining the warmth of the added 6th note.
How to Play:
- Mute the low E and high E strings.
- Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string (C note).
- Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (E note).
- Use your index finger on the 2nd fret of the G string (A note).
- Strum only the A, D, and G strings.
C6 (Rootless Voicing)
This voicing removes the root (C) but still sounds harmonically complete, making it excellent for comping in a jazz ensemble where a bass player covers the root.
How to Play:
- Mute the low E and A strings.
- Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string (A note).
- Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (E note).
- Use your ring finger to press the 2nd fret of the G string (A note).
- Place your pinky on the 3rd fret of the high E string (G note).
- Strum only the D, G, B, and high E strings.
C6 Movable Shape (Jazz Voicing)
This compact voicing is perfect for quick transitions in jazz progressions. Its concise sound makes it easy to mix with other extended chords.
How to Play:
- Mute the low E and A strings.
- Use your index finger to barre the 5th fret on the D, G, and B strings.
- Place your ring finger on the 7th fret of the high E string (A note).
- Strum only the D, G, B, and high E strings.
The C6 chord is a versatile and expressive addition to your chord vocabulary. From open, folk-friendly voicings to compact jazz variations, the C6 chord can bring warmth, movement, and sophistication to your music.
Top Songs Featuring the C6 Guitar Chord
The C6 chord is a gem in the guitar world, often found in jazz, blues, and even pop music. Its smooth, warm tone adds richness and sophistication to chord progressions. Below are five classic songs that beautifully incorporate the C6 chord, along with insights into why the chord fits so well in each composition.
“Summertime” – George Gershwin
Why C6 Fits:
A jazz standard, “Summertime” thrives on lush, dreamy chords. The C6 chord enhances the melody with a mellow, soothing vibe that perfectly complements the song’s sultry mood.
How to Use:
Play the C6 chord in the open position (X 3 2 2 1 3) during the verse to add a warm, jazzy feel.
“Fly Me to the Moon” – Frank Sinatra
Why C6 Fits:
This timeless jazz piece relies on extended chords for a smooth, flowing progression. The C6 chord brings a sophisticated yet approachable touch to the classic swing rhythm.
How to Use:
Use the barre chord shape (8 X 7 9 8 8) to create a jazzy, compact tone during the chorus.
“Every Breath You Take” – The Police
Why C6 Fits:
While this iconic pop-rock ballad centers on simpler chord progressions, the C6 chord can replace the C major chord in some sections for a softer, more melodic texture.
How to Use:
Play the high voicing (X X 10 9 10 10) during the bridge for a delicate yet striking variation.
“Blue Moon” – Billie Holiday
Why C6 Fits:
A quintessential jazz ballad, “Blue Moon” thrives on expressive, lush chords. The C6 chord adds warmth and a nostalgic air, making the progression even more timeless.
How to Use:
Incorporate the C6 rootless voicing (X X 2 2 1 3) for a compact yet rich tone that blends well with vocal melodies.
“Something” – The Beatles
Why C6 Fits:
Known for its beautiful chord changes, this George Harrison masterpiece benefits from the C6 chord’s gentle and inviting sound. It’s an ideal choice for highlighting emotional depth in the arrangement.
How to Use:
Replace the C major chord with the barre shape C6 (X 3 5 2 5 3) in the verse for a subtle jazz-inspired touch.
The C6 chord is a flexible and enriching addition to any song, from jazz standards to modern classics. Experiment with the chord’s various shapes to unlock new textures and emotional layers in these songs.
The C6 chord is more than just a collection of notes; it’s a doorway to musical warmth and elegance. Whether you’re crafting jazzy serenades, soulful blues, or heartfelt pop ballads, this chord can transform your progressions into something truly special. Dive into its many variations, and let its rich tones inspire your creativity.
For more musical insights and tips to refine your craft, keep exploring Aguitar Blog — where your guitar journey finds its voice.
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