What is a E9 Chord?

12345213

E9

E9 Dominant 9th

String-by-String

E
0
A
2
D
0
G
1
B
0
e
2

E9 Dominant 9th is a dominant ninth chord with the root E, major third G#, perfect fifth B, minor seventh D, and major ninth F#. It is rich and funky, essential in R&B and funk.

Intervals

RootMajor 3rdPerfect 5thMinor 7thMajor 9th

Notes

EG#BDF#

Why does E9 sound funky and rich?

The E9 Dominant 9th chord gets its funky and rich character from the combination of its root, major 3rd, perfect 5th, minor 7th, major 9th. The specific intervals between the notes E, G#, B, D, F#create the harmonic tension and color that define this chord's unique sonic signature.

How to use E9?

E9 is commonly used in progressions across many genres. Try substituting it where you would normally play a standard E chord for added harmonic interest. It pairs well with other chords in the key of E and can serve as both a foundation and a color chord depending on the context.