What is a C5 Chord?
C5
C5 Power Chord
String-by-String
E
×
A
3
D
5
G
×
B
×
e
×
C5 Power Chord is a power chord with just the root C and perfect fifth G. Neither major nor minor, it is the backbone of rock, punk, and metal music.
Intervals
RootPerfect 5th
Notes
CG
Why does C5 sound raw and powerful?
The C5 Power Chord chord gets its raw and powerful character from the combination of its root, perfect 5th. The specific intervals between the notes C, Gcreate the harmonic tension and color that define this chord's unique sonic signature.
How to use C5?
C5 is commonly used in progressions across many genres. Try substituting it where you would normally play a standard C chord for added harmonic interest. It pairs well with other chords in the key of C and can serve as both a foundation and a color chord depending on the context.