E Augmented 7th
Introduction
Notes
E Augmented 7th Inversions
| Position | Notes |
|---|---|
| Root Position | E4 – G#4 – C5 – D5 |
| 1st Inversion | G#4 – C5 – D5 – E5 |
| 2nd Inversion | C5 – D5 – E5 – G#5 |
| 3rd Inversion | E4 – G#4 – C5 – D4 |
Key Signature
The key of E Augmented 7th has 4 sharps: F♯, C♯, G♯, D♯.
Theory: Intervals
The E Augmented 7th is built by stacking intervals from the root note. The formula R-M3-A5-m7 describes the scale degrees used. The intervals P1-M3-A5-m7 show the distance between each note in the chord.
E Augmented 7th — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the E Augmented 7th chord?
The E Augmented 7th chord (E+7) contains four notes: E (root), G# (major third), B# (augmented fifth, enharmonically C), and D (minor seventh). It combines an augmented triad with a minor seventh.
How does E Augmented 7th differ from E Dominant 7th?
Both contain E, G#, and D. E+7 has B# (augmented fifth) while E7 has B (perfect fifth). The raised fifth adds extra chromatic tension.
How is E Augmented 7th used in music?
E+7 is an altered dominant resolving to A Major. The B#/C pulls up to C# while D pulls down to C# — converging on the third of A. Common in blues, jazz, and rock.
What genres use Augmented 7th chords?
Augmented 7th chords are common in jazz, gospel, blues, and R&B. E+7 appears frequently in blues-influenced music where E is the I or V chord.
What songs use Augmented 7th chords?
Augmented 7th chords appear in jazz standards and blues. E+7 resolves to A Major, appearing in blues-rock and jazz contexts.
What is the difference between +7 and 7#5?
They are the same chord. E+7, E7#5, and Eaug7 all refer to E Augmented 7th.
Practice Tips
- Play E7 then raise B to C (B#) — hear the augmented fifth's extra tension.
- Practice E+7 → A Major. B#/C and D both resolve to C# — converging voice leading.
- E+7 is a bluesy, colourful substitute for E7 in blues in A or E — try it in a 12-bar blues.
- Compare E+7 with E7 — both resolve to A, but +7 adds chromatic richness.
- In jazz: Bm7 → E+7 → Amaj7 adds sophistication to the ii–V–I in A.
- The augmented triad (E–G#–C) divides the octave into three equal parts.