How to Play Power Chords
A power chord is a two-note chord made of the root and the perfect fifth, often with the root doubled an octave higher. The shape is the same everywhere on the neck: put your index finger on the root on the 6th or 5th string, then place your ring finger two frets higher on the next string up.
The shape
With the root on the low E string, play the root with your index finger, the fifth with your ring finger two frets higher on the A string, and optionally the octave with your pinky on the D string. Strum only those strings.
Moving the shape
Because the shape contains no open strings, you can slide it up and down the neck. At the 5th fret it is an A5, at the 7th fret B5, and so on. Learn the notes on the 6th string and you can play any power chord.
Muting for tight riffs
Use the palm of your picking hand near the bridge for palm muting, and let the underside of your fretting index finger gently touch the strings you are not using. This stops stray notes from ringing.
Major or minor?
Power chords contain no third, so they are neither major nor minor. That is why they work in both major and minor keys and sound great with distortion.
Related
FAQ
Why are they called power chords?
Without a third, the chord sounds strong and open, and it stays clear with heavy distortion.
What is the difference between E5 and an E chord?
E5 contains only E and B (and E again). An E major chord also contains the major third, G#.
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