The G 9sus4 chord is a five-note chord made up of G, C, D, F, and A. It is built from a root, perfect fourth, perfect fifth, minor seventh, and major ninth.
Construction
G 9sus4 = Root + Perfect 4th + Perfect 5th + Minor 7th + Major 2nd = G · C · D · F · A
| Note | Interval | Degree |
|---|---|---|
| G | Root | 1 |
| C | Perfect 4th | 11 |
| D | Perfect 5th | 5 |
| F | Minor 7th | ♭7 |
| A | Major 2nd | 9 |
Key Signature
A chord has no key signature of its own, but the G 9sus4 is the tonic (I) chord of G Major, whose key signature has 1 sharp (F♯).
F♯
Order of sharps
Sharps are added to a key signature in a fixed order. Each new sharp key adds the next sharp on the list.
F♯C♯G♯D♯A♯E♯B♯
Mnemonic: Father Charles Goes Down And Ends Battle
Chords in the Key of G Major
These are the triads built on each degree of the G major scale:
Same Notes, Other Names
The notes G – C – D – F – A aren’t exclusive to this chord. Depending on which note is the bass and how the chord functions, the same pitches also spell:
G 9sus4 — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the G 9sus4 chord on piano?
The G 9sus4 chord contains the notes G – C – D – F – A. On piano, play these notes together to sound the chord.
What notes are in the G 9sus4 chord?
The G 9sus4 chord (G9sus4) contains 5 notes: G, C, D, F, A. Formula: R-P4-P5-m7-M9.
How is G9sus4 used in music?
G9sus4 is used in jazz, fusion, and contemporary music to add harmonic color. It appears as a dominant or tonic chord depending on context.
What is the scale degree formula for G9sus4?
G9sus4 uses scale degrees 1-4-5-b7-9, giving it its distinctive sound.