When it comes to songwriting, there are many different chords that you can use to create unique and interesting sounds. However, if you are a songwriter looking to take your skills to the next level, you may be looking for things that are a bit more advanced than just your major and minor chords. One of these types of chords is known as the added tone chord. Specifically, an added tone chord is a chord that has an extra note added to it, often a second or ninth. In this blog, we will focus on the most common added tone chords, add 2 and add 9, and how to use them in songwriting.
Add2 Chords
An add2 chord is created by adding the second note in a scale to a basic major or minor chord. For example, if you start with a C major chord, you would add the note D to create a Cadd2 chord. This chord has a more gentle sound than a regular major chord and can be used to create a feeling of calm or peacefulness in a song. The add2 chord is also commonly used in ballads, as it helps to create a dreamy and romantic atmosphere. A great example of a song that uses add2 chords is “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac. In this song, the add2 chord is used to create a feeling of longing and nostalgia.
Add9 Chords
Another common add chord is the add9 chord. This chord is created by adding the ninth note in a scale to a basic major or minor chord. For example, if you start with a C major chord, you would add the note D to create a Cadd9 chord. This chord has a more modern and contemporary sound and can be used to create a feeling of openness and possibility in a song. The add9 chord is also commonly used in pop and rock music, as it adds a sense of excitement and energy. A great example of a song that uses add9 chords is “Yellow” by Coldplay. In this song, the add9 chord is used to create a feeling of joy and celebration.
Uncommon Added Tone Chords
In addition to the common add chords, there are also many other types of add chords that you can use in your songwriting. Some of the less common add chords include add 4, add 6, and add 11 chords. These chords can add even more complexity and depth to your music and are a great way to experiment with new sounds and styles.
Using Added Tone Chords in Your Music
One way is to use them to create a sense of contrast in your music. For example, you could use an add2 chord in a slow, sad section of a song to create a feeling of peace and comfort. Alternatively, you could use an add9 chord in a fast, upbeat section of a song to create a feeling of excitement and energy.
Another way to use added tone chords is to create a unique and interesting chord progression. By using added tone chords in unexpected places, you can create a sound that is both complex and beautiful. For example, you could use an add2 chord in a minor key to create a feeling of hopefulness and possibility.
In conclusion, added tone chords are a powerful tool that you can use to take your songwriting to the next level. By adding an extra note to a basic major or minor chord, you can create a sound that is unique and interesting. Whether you’re using add2 or add9 chords, or experimenting with the less common added tone chords, the possibilities are endless. So the next time you’re writing a song, don’t be afraid to add a little something extra with an added tone chord.
