B Major 9th
Introduction
Notes
B Major 9th Inversions
| Position | Notes |
|---|---|
| Root Position | B4 – D#5 – F#5 – A#5 – C#6 |
| 1st Inversion | D#5 – F#5 – A#5 – B5 – C#6 |
| 2nd Inversion | F#5 – A#5 – B5 – C#6 – D#6 |
Key Signature
The key of B Major 9th has 5 sharps: F♯, C♯, G♯, D♯, A♯.
Theory: Intervals
The B Major 9th is built by stacking intervals from the root note. The formula R-M3-P5-M7-M9 describes the scale degrees used. The intervals P1-M3-P5-M7-M9 show the distance between each note in the chord.
B Major 9th — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the B Major 9th chord?
The B Major 9th chord (Bmaj9) contains five notes: B (root), D# (major third), F# (perfect fifth), A# (major seventh), and C# (major ninth). It is Bmaj7 with an added ninth.
How does Bmaj9 differ from B9?
Bmaj9 has a major seventh (A#). B9 has a minor seventh (A). Bmaj9 is dreamy; B9 is dominant.
How is Bmaj9 used in music?
Bmaj9 is a lush tonic in B Major. It appears in contemporary jazz, fusion, and J-pop.
What songs use Major 9th chords?
Major 9th chords appear in neo-soul, jazz, and lo-fi music.
How does Bmaj9 differ from Badd9?
Bmaj9 includes the major seventh (A#). Badd9 has no seventh.
Do I need to play all five notes?
No — drop the fifth: B–D#–A#–C# is the practical voicing.
Practice Tips
- Play Bmaj7 then add C# — hear the lush expansion.
- Drop the fifth: B–D#–A#–C# is standard.
- Bmaj9 has a distinctive mostly-black-keys shape.
- Practice C#m9 → F#13 → Bmaj9 for the ii–V–I in B.
- Bmaj9 and Cbmaj9 are enharmonic — practice both.
- Rootless: D#–F#–A#–C# for jazz comping.