How to play
Spice up your playing with this essential chord, used in hits like "Hey Soul Sister."
The G6 chordFinger placement for G6 chordHow to play an easy G6 chord on guitarHow to play a G6 bar chordCommon G6 chord progressionsDrills to master the G6 chordSongs that feature the G6 chordHow a guitar teacher can help
The G6 chord
The G6 chord, pronounced G sixth, is a colorful variation of the standard G major chord. It features an added sixth note, lending a dreamy and slightly melancholic flavor to its sound. The G6 is particularly popular in jazz, R&B, and soul music, often used to create smooth transitions between chords. Its rich texture makes it a favorite among guitarists seeking to add depth to their progressions.
There are many ways to play a chord. Here's a diagram for the most common G6 chord. We've also included other versions below.
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Finger placement for G6 chord
The G6 chord is typically played on the 3rd fret of the guitar.
Follow these finger positions to play a G6 chord on your guitar:
- Place your index finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st (E) string.
- Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the 6th (low E) string.
- Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 2nd (B) string.
- Place your pinky finger on the 3rd fret of the 3rd (G) string.
Strum all six strings together to play the G6 chord, making sure each fingered note rings out clearly.
How to play an easy G6 chord on guitar
If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the G6 chord, try playing an open G chord and adding your pinky finger to the 3rd fret of the 1st (high E) string. This way, you can still capture the essence of the G6 chord without using a barre chord.
How to play a G6 bar chord
The G6 barre chord is a great alternative to the standard open G6 chord, allowing you to play the chord shape anywhere on the fretboard and smoothly transition to other barre chords.
Here's how to play a G6 barre chord:
- Place your index finger across all six strings at the 10th fret, creating a barre.
- Place your middle finger on the 12th fret of the 4th (D) string.
- Place your ring finger on the 12th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
- Place your pinky finger on the 12th fret of the 2nd (B) string.
- Strum from the 6th (low E) string down to the 1st (high E) string.
Common G6 chord progressions
The G6 chord is a versatile chord that can add a dreamy, nostalgic, or bittersweet feel to a chord progression. Here are some common chord progressions featuring the G6 chord:
- I - vi - IV - V (G - Em - C - D) Used in "Don't Stop Believin'" and "Zombie"
- I - V - vi - IV (G - D - Em - C) Used in "With or Without You" and "Let It Be"
- I - vi - ii - V (G - Em - Am - D) Used in "Wonderwall" and "Boulevard of Broken Dreams"
- I - IV - V - IV (G - C - D - C) Used in "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Free Fallin'"
- I - iii - IV - V (G - Bm - C - D) Used in "Head Over Feet" and "Fast Car"
Drills to master the G6 chord
To master the G6 chord, try strumming the individual notes (G, B, D, and E) one at a time. Focus on each note ringing out clearly before moving on to the next. Once comfortable, practice transitioning between these notes in different patterns.
Another effective drill is to play the G6 chord in various rhythms. Start with simple, steady strumming patterns and gradually increase the complexity. Experiment with different time signatures and syncopated rhythms to develop your timing and coordination. Remember, consistent practice is key to building muscle memory and mastering this chord.
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Songs that feature the G6 chord
Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the G6 chord.
- Creep by Radiohead (G, B, C, Cm)
- Wonderwall by Oasis (Em7, G, D, A7sus4)
- Iris by Goo Goo Dolls (D, Em, G, A)
- The A Team by Ed Sheeran (G, Cadd9, Em, D)
- Hey There Delilah by Plain White T's (D, F#m, G, A)
- Fast Car by Tracy Chapman (G, D, Em, C)
- Riptide by Vance Joy (Am, G, C)
- Skinny Love by Bon Iver (Em, G, D, C)
- Ho Hey by The Lumineers (C, F, G, Am)
- Viva la Vida by Coldplay (C, D, G, Em)
How a guitar teacher can help
If you feel stuck in your playing, it might help to take personalized guitar lessons with an expert guitarist. Taking lessons with a pro gives you access to the skills, feedback, and motivation to reach your goals.
You can find expert guitar teachers to support you in the journey. Thousands of people have turned to online guitar lessons on Til, instead of traditional in-person lessons, because Til gives you access to the best teachers in the world from the comfort of home. And with flexible scheduling, secure payments, lesson recordings, and a private chat with your teacher–there’s never been a better way to learn guitar.
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