Power CHords

The Chords of Rock and Roll, Punk, and Metal. Power Chords are the go-to chord shapes for loud, distorted guitars and aggressive guitar playing.

Introduction to power CHords

The “Power Chord” is one of the most common chords used in rock music. The power chord is simply a two-note chord, consisting of the root note and the note a 5th above the root. This combination of two notes creates a very powerful sound on the guitar, especially when distortion is used. 

The power chord is neither major nor minor because it does not contain the note a 3rd above the root (in Chapter 2, we learned that the 3rd of the chord determines whether the chord is major or minor). This allows the same chord shape to be played to imply both major and minor harmonies. 

The “Power Chord” can be moved up and down on the guitar to create different chords with the same shape. This allows the guitarist to use it frequently and quickly. By placing our first finger on the correct root note, we will create a power chord with that root. Use the two diagrams below to find the correct root and play the examples on the next few pages.

power CHord Exercises

Practice the following exercises using “power chords” instead of normal open chords. Be careful not to strum other strings while playing these chords. You can use your first and third fingers to mute the other strings if needed.