G7 Chord

The classic blues chord — major triad with a flat 7 on top.

G7
321EADGBe
Notes in this voicing: G · B · D · F
Root
G
Quality
Dominant 7th
Difficulty
Beginner
Type
Open

String-by-String Fingering

Low EFret 3

Fret the Low E string at fret 3 with your ring finger (G).

AFret 2

Fret the A string at fret 2 with your middle finger (B).

DO

Play the D string open (D).

GO

Play the G string open (G).

BO

Play the B string open (B).

High EFret 1

Fret the High E string at fret 1 with your index finger (F).

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 G7 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

3fr131211EADGBe

Try this movable version when you need a different neck position, a tighter rock rhythm sound, or a smoother transition from nearby barre chords.

Related Chords

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