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C major 7

Chord

C major 7

Lush and dreamy. The 7th degree adds sophistication to a plain major triad.

SymbolCmaj7Stretch

01Diagram

C major 7

Notes

C E G B

Intervals

1 3 5 7

02Theory

How this chord is built

  1. 1

    Root note. The chord takes its name from this degree.

  2. 3

    Third. Major or minor quality is decided here.

  3. 5

    Fifth. Stable, defines the chord body.

  4. 7

    Color tone. Adds character on top of the triad.

Tonic chord in major key jazz. Often used as a static one chord vamp for solo practice.

03Variations

The same chord, in other positions

04Repertoire

Songs that use this chord

  • The Beatles

    Let It Be

    Key of C

  • Bob Dylan

    Knockin on Heavens Door

    Key of G

  • Oasis

    Wonderwall

    Capo 2

  • Eagles

    Hotel California

    Key of Am

  • Tracy Chapman

    Fast Car

    Capo 2

Preview

05Substitutions

Try these in its place

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