Latest about Chords
Introducing contrasting open chords – the open-string shapes used by the likes of Alex Lifeson and Jeff Buckley in some of their dreamiest guitar parts
What is a contrasting open chord? It's simply an open chord that combines high-fretted notes and open strings, and it can be used to great effect on acoustic or electric guitar
There’s no such thing as an ‘acoustic guitar chord’ – but these 12 shapes sound amazing unplugged
Learn a dozen chords that will expand your musical vocabulary and enhance your songwriting – and the best bit? They’re not that difficult
Your solos and rhythm playing will benefit from learning chords across the fretboard – and major 7ths are a great place to start
The major 7th chord is a favorite among guitarists of all stripes, including Nile Rodgers – here are 5 ways to take the shape to the next level, and your overall playing along with it, too
“For me, a power chord is laziness”: Rolling Stones, U2 and XTC producer Steve Lillywhite explains why certain uses of power chords are “not art”
They're used in many of music's most famous songs and form the bedrock of numerous styles, but super-producer Lillywhite isn't overly keen on power chords – here's why
No, arpeggios aren’t just for jazz and shred solos – here are 5 ways you can use them to freshen up any style of guitar playing
Your riffs, rhythm parts and solos can all benefit from a minor 7 arpeggio injection
Why diminished phrases can be your secret weapon in a blues chord progression
Josh Smith offers a road map for harmonically interesting blues guitar playing, offering fresh ideas for connecting notes between chords
10 ways to make your guitar chords more interesting
Learn how chords can tap into emotions and you can improve your rhythm chops – and songwriting – fast
How to create melodies that connect relative major and minor chords
Pull solo ideas from both sides of the happy/sad spectrum of tonality
