E Major 9th
Introduction
Notes
E Major 9th Inversions
| Position | Notes |
|---|---|
| Root Position | E4 – G#4 – B4 – D#5 – F#5 |
| 1st Inversion | G#4 – B4 – D#5 – E5 – F#5 |
| 2nd Inversion | B4 – D#5 – E5 – F#5 – G#5 |
Key Signature
The key of E Major 9th has 4 sharps: F♯, C♯, G♯, D♯.
Theory: Intervals
The E 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.
E Major 9th — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the E Major 9th chord?
The E Major 9th chord (Emaj9) contains five notes: E (root), G# (major third), B (perfect fifth), D# (major seventh), and F# (major ninth). It is Emaj7 with an added ninth.
How does Emaj9 differ from E9?
Emaj9 has a major seventh (D#). E9 has a minor seventh (D). Emaj9 is dreamy; E9 is dominant and bluesy.
How is Emaj9 used in music?
Emaj9 is a lush tonic in E Major. It appears in contemporary jazz, fusion, dream pop, and atmospheric music.
What songs use Major 9th chords?
Major 9th chords are signature sounds of neo-soul, jazz, lo-fi, and dream pop.
How does Emaj9 differ from Eadd9?
Emaj9 includes the major seventh (D#). Eadd9 has no seventh.
Do I need to play all five notes?
No — drop the fifth: E–G#–D#–F# is the practical voicing.
Practice Tips
- Play Emaj7 then add F# — hear the lush ninth expand the chord.
- Drop the fifth: E–G#–D#–F# is standard.
- Emaj9 in dream pop and shoegaze: sustain with reverb for atmospheric effect.
- Practice F#m9 → B13 → Emaj9 for the jazz ii–V–I in E.
- Rootless: G#–B–D#–F# for comping.
- Compare Emaj9 with Eadd9 — the major seventh adds warmth.