What is a B5 Chord?

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B5

B5 Power Chord

String-by-String

E
×
A
2
D
4
G
4
B
×
e
×

B5 Power Chord is a power chord with just the root B and perfect fifth F#. Neither major nor minor, it is the backbone of rock, punk, and metal music.

Intervals

RootPerfect 5th

Notes

BF#

Why does B5 sound raw and powerful?

The B5 Power Chord chord gets its raw and powerful character from the combination of its root, perfect 5th. The specific intervals between the notes B, F#create the harmonic tension and color that define this chord's unique sonic signature.

How to use B5?

B5 is commonly used in progressions across many genres. Try substituting it where you would normally play a standard B chord for added harmonic interest. It pairs well with other chords in the key of B and can serve as both a foundation and a color chord depending on the context.