This is a helpful jazz guitar voicing for a G7#11 chord. This is a movable voicing with the root on the 6th string, meaning that you can change the letter name of this chord by moving it up or down the neck. Note: The #11 can also be called a b5. You might see G7#11 or G7b5 on a chord chart, but this chord shape covers either name. On the left is the G7#11 chord shown with the chord tones/intervals used, and on the right is the recommended finger pattern. This chord can be used for any dominant 7th (G7, C7, etc) type chord you come across. Whether it calls for G7, G9, or anything else with a 7 or higher in the chord symbol, this chord will work. It is important to note that the sharp 11 (#11) adds tension to the chord so be sure to really listen to how the chord sounds in context. It won’t always be the right choice, but gives you potions in terms of extra color in your chord voicings. In order to be able to use this chord in your playing, all you have to do is learn the notes up and down the 6th string. Try playing this chord around the cycle of 4ths to help you learn the notes on the 6th string. And if you really want to be able to use this chord in your playing, try this:
I think you’ll find this approach to be useful for helping you get a new chord shape under your fingers in a way that you can actually use it when you need it on the fly. The more you use it, the more you’ll get a feel for when this particular chord will sound good in a song. Whether you’re playing through the Real Book, or sitting in a jazz ensemble, this is a good way to learn new chord vocabulary as you play. Keep practicing, and let me know how it goes! Contact me today to ask questions, get advice, or try an online jazz guitar lesson.
2 Comments
Kyle
6/29/2021 09:31:46 am
Thanks! Let me know if there's anything else you'd like to see here. I'm always working on new lessons.
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