E7 Chord
The classic blues chord — major triad with a flat 7 on top.
E7
Notes in this voicing: E · B · D · G#
Root
E
Quality
Dominant 7th
Difficulty
Beginner
Type
Open
String-by-String Fingering
Low EO
Play the Low E string open (E).
AFret 2
Fret the A string at fret 2 with your middle finger (B).
DO
Play the D string open (D).
GFret 1
Fret the G string at fret 1 with your index finger (G#).
BO
Play the B string open (B).
High EO
Play the High E string open (E).
Finger Number Legend
1Index
2Middle
3Ring
4Pinky
How to Play It
- Start your strum from the Low E string and avoid any strings marked X.
- Keep your fingertips close to the fret wire so the E7 chord rings without buzz.
- Emphasize the b7 with a slight accent when comping a blues.
- Practice quick I7 → IV7 → V7 changes.
Suggested Strumming Pattern
Down, down-up, down-up, down-up; start slowly and listen for every open string to ring clearly.
Common Mistakes
- Playing a maj7 shape by mistake — the b7 is one fret lower.
Songs That Use This Chord Type
- • Pride and Joy — SRV
- • Sunshine of Your Love — Cream
Alternative Shape
Try this movable version when you need a different neck position, a tighter rock rhythm sound, or a smoother transition from nearby barre chords.
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