How to play

How to play the A7sus4 chord on guitar

Elevate your playing with this essential chord, featured in hits like "Wonderwall."

The A7sus4 chord

The A7sus4 chord, pronounced "A suspended fourth seventh," is a captivating variation of the A7 chord. By replacing the major third with a perfect fourth, the A7sus4 introduces an element of tension and ambiguity. This chord is commonly used in blues, rock, and folk music to create a sense of anticipation or resolution, making it a versatile tool in any guitarist's repertoire.

There are many ways to play a chord. Here's a diagram for the most common A7sus4 chord. We've also included other versions below.

A7sus4 guitar chord diagram

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Finger placement for A7sus4 chord

The A7sus4 chord is typically played as a first position chord on the guitar.

Follow these finger positions to play a A7sus4 chord on your guitar:

  1. Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th (D) string
  2. Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd (G) string
  3. Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 2nd (B) string

To strum this chord, use a pick or your thumb to play downstrokes or alternating down and up strokes across the middle four strings. Avoid playing the 1st (high E) and 6th (low E) strings for a cleaner sound.

A7sus4 guitar chord with finger positions

How to play an easy A7sus4 chord on guitar

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the A7sus4 chord, try this:

  1. Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th (D) string.
  2. Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd (G) string.
  3. Leave the 1st (high E) and 2nd (B) strings open.
  4. Strum only the top four strings.

How to play a A7sus4 bar chord

The A7sus4 chord is most commonly played as an open chord, but learning the barre chord version can be useful for extending your fretboard range and adding variety to your playing.

Here's how to play an A7sus4 barre chord:

  1. Place your index finger across the 5th fret, covering all six strings (barre).
  2. Place your ring finger on the 7th fret of the 5th (A) string.
  3. Place your pinky finger on the 7th fret of the 4th (D) string.
  4. Place your middle finger on the 6th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
  5. Strum all six strings from low to high.

Common A7sus4 chord progressions

The A7sus4 chord is often used in progressions to add tension and a sense of movement, creating a bluesy or rootsy feel. Some common A7sus4 chord progressions include:

  • I7sus4 - IV7 - I7 (A7sus4 - D7 - A7) Used in "Lay Down Sally" and "You Can't Always Get What You Want"
  • I7sus4 - IV7 - V7 - IV7 (A7sus4 - D7 - E7 - D7)
  • I7sus4 - IV7 - V7 - I7sus4 (A7sus4 - D7 - E7 - A7sus4)
  • I7sus4 - IV7 - I7sus4 - V7 (A7sus4 - D7 - A7sus4 - E7)
  • I7sus4 - bVII7 - IV7 - I7sus4 (A7sus4 - G7 - D7 - A7sus4)

Drills to master the A7sus4 chord

To master the A7sus4 chord, try playing the individual notes (A, D, E, G) one at a time, focusing on clean execution. Once comfortable, practice transitioning between each note, gradually increasing your speed.

Another effective drill is to strum the chord and let it ring out. Listen closely to the sound, ensuring all notes are coming through clearly. Repeat this process, concentrating on consistent pressure and avoiding any muted or buzzing strings. With dedicated practice, you'll soon find yourself comfortably incorporating the A7sus4 chord into your playing.

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Songs that feature the A7sus4 chord

Here are 10 popular songs you can play with the A7sus4 chord:

  1. Knockin' on Heaven's Door by Bob Dylan (G, D, Am7, A7sus4)
  2. Free Fallin' by Tom Petty (D, A, E7sus4, A7sus4)
  3. Wonderwall by Oasis (Em7, G, D, A7sus4)
  4. Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) by Green Day (G, C, D, A7sus4)
  5. Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (Em7, G, D, A7sus4, C)
  6. Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton (A, E, D, A7sus4, D7sus4)
  7. Fast Car by Tracy Chapman (C, G, Em7, D, A7sus4)
  8. Creep by Radiohead (G, B, C, Cm)
  9. Hey There Delilah by Plain White T's (D, F#m7, A7sus4, Bm7)
  10. Closing Time by Semisonic (G, D, Am7, C, A7sus4)

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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