Power Chord chords
A power chord chord has two notes: the root and perfect fifth. Its formula is 1 5. The root and the 5th only. With no 3rd it is neither major nor minor, which is why it stays clear under distortion, where a 3rd turns muddy.
On C it is written C5, and also C(no3).
Power Chord chords in every key
| Chord | Notes | Shapes |
|---|---|---|
| C5 | C G | guitar · piano · bass |
| Db5 | Db Ab | guitar · piano · bass |
| D5 | D A | guitar · piano · bass |
| Eb5 | Eb Bb | guitar · piano · bass |
| E5 | E B | guitar · piano · bass |
| F5 | F C | guitar · piano · bass |
| F#5 | F# C# | guitar · piano · bass |
| G5 | G D | guitar · piano · bass |
| Ab5 | Ab Eb | guitar · piano · bass |
| A5 | A E | guitar · piano · bass |
| Bb5 | Bb F | guitar · piano · bass |
| B5 | B F# | guitar · piano · bass |
Power Chord compared
| Chord | Symbol | Formula | Notes | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power Chord | C5 | 1 5 | C G | |
| Major | C | 1 3 5 | C E G | C is C5 (C and G) with E, the 3rd, added. |
| Minor | Cm | 1 b3 5 | C Eb G | Cm is C5 (C and G) with Eb, the flat 3rd, added. |
Questions
What is a power chord chord?
A power chord chord has two notes: the root and perfect fifth. Its formula is 1 5. The root and the 5th only. With no 3rd it is neither major nor minor, which is why it stays clear under distortion, where a 3rd turns muddy.
How do you write a power chord chord?
On C it is written C5, and also C(no3).
What is the difference between C5 and C?
C5 is C (C, E and G) without E, the 3rd.