Unlocking the Full Harmonic Potential: Understanding 7th Chords
If you have a basic understanding of music theory, you know what chords are – a combination of three or more notes played together to form a harmony. But did you know that there is a special type of chord that creates even more complexity and richness in the music? Enter the 7th chord.
What is a 7th Chord?
A 7th chord is a four-note chord that consists of a root note, a third, a fifth, and a seventh note. It’s considered a “jazzy” chord because of the added tension it creates and the unique sound it produces which enhances the harmonic potential of the music. There are four types of 7th chords: major, dominant, minor, and half-diminished.
Major 7th Chords
A major 7th chord consists of a major triad (root, major third, perfect fifth) with an added major 7th. This chord sounds dreamy, calm, and delicate and is often used in romantic ballads and jazz tunes. For example, “Misty” by Erroll Garner and “As Time Goes By” by Herman Hupfeld contain major 7th chords.
Dominant 7th Chords
Dominant 7th chords are perhaps the most common type of 7th chord used in music. They are formed by adding a minor 7th to a major triad. This type of chord has a strong and tense sound, and it’s often used in blues, rock, and jazz music. Some famous songs that use dominant 7th chords include “Blueberry Hill” by Fats Domino, “Roll Over Beethoven” by Chuck Berry and “Hound Dog” by Elvis Presley.
Minor 7th Chords
A minor 7th chord is a minor triad with a minor 7th added. It has a sad, melancholy sound that is often used in sentimental ballads and in songs with slow tempo. Examples of songs with minor 7th chords include “Alone Again (Naturally)” by Gilbert O’Sullivan and “Careless Whisper” by George Michael.
Half-diminished Chords
A half-diminished chord (also known as a minor 7 flat 5) is a diminished triad with a minor 7th added. It has a gloomy, unsettling sound, and it’s often used in suspenseful or dark music. The famous “James Bond Theme” by Monty Norman is built around a half-diminished chord, as is “Shades of Cool” by Lana Del Rey.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the different types of 7th chords and how to use them unlocks the full harmonic potential of music. These chords can create a variety of emotions and sounds, adding depth and complexity to your compositions. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, experimenting with 7th chords will help you take your playing to new levels.
