What is a B7 Chord?

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B7

B7 Dominant 7th

String-by-String

E
×
A
2
D
1
G
2
B
0
e
2

B7 Dominant 7th is a dominant seventh chord combining the root B, major third D#, perfect fifth F#, and minor seventh A. It creates tension that wants to resolve, essential in blues and jazz.

Intervals

RootMajor 3rdPerfect 5thMinor 7th

Notes

BD#F#A

Why does B7 sound bluesy and unresolved?

The B7 Dominant 7th chord gets its bluesy and unresolved character from the combination of its root, major 3rd, perfect 5th, minor 7th. The specific intervals between the notes B, D#, F#, Acreate the harmonic tension and color that define this chord's unique sonic signature.

How to use B7?

B7 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.