E6 Chord (E major 6th) on Guitar
E6 (E major 6th) is made of the notes E – G# – B – C#. The easiest guitar fingering is 042100 (low E to high e; x = muted, 0 = open). It needs 3 fingers and no barre.
Easiest shape
Alternative shape
Higher position
How to play E6
- Play the 6th string (low E) open (E).
- Press the 5th string (A) at fret 4 (C#).
- Press the 4th string (D) at fret 2 (E).
- Press the 3rd string (G) at fret 1 (G#).
- Play the 2nd string (B) open (B).
- Play the 1st string (high e) open (E).
| String | Fret | Note | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6th string (low E) | 0 (open) | E | R |
| 5th string (A) | 4 | C# | 6 |
| 4th string (D) | 2 | E | R |
| 3rd string (G) | 1 | G# | 3 |
| 2nd string (B) | 0 (open) | B | 5 |
| 1st string (high e) | 0 (open) | E | R |
What is a E major 6th chord?
A major 6th chord adds the sixth note of the scale to a major triad.
Notes and formula. E6 contains E, G#, B, C#. Counted from the root E, that is R (root), 3 (major 3rd), 5 (perfect 5th), 6 (major 6th).
Sound. Warm, sweet and vintage. It has a gentle, resolved quality popular in older jazz and swing.
Where it is used. Often used as an ending chord in jazz, swing, country and early rock and roll.
Tips for playing E6
Use a 6th chord to close a song instead of a plain major chord for a classic "final" sound.
Common mistake: Confusing C6 with Am7. They contain the same notes, and the bass note decides which you hear.
Scales to play over E6
Related chords
E6 chord FAQ
What notes are in a E6 chord?
E6 (E major 6th) contains the notes E, G#, B, C#. The formula is R–3–5–6 relative to the root E.
How do you play E6 on guitar?
The most common shape for E6 is 042100, read from the low E string to the high e string (x = muted, 0 = open, numbers = frets). It needs 3 fingers and no barre.
Is E6 an easy guitar chord?
It is rated intermediate. It needs 3 fingers and no barre.
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