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Chord & Fret

B7(b9) — dominant flat ninth

Notes in B7(b9): B – D# – F# – A – CFormula: 1 – 3 – 5 – b7 – b9

In the formula, the numbers count steps of the major scale starting from the note that names the chord; "b" lowers a half step, "#" raises one — and a slash names the bass note.

The 7(b9) is a dramatic dominant. The minor ninth intensifies the resolution, especially when the target chord is minor.

The same chord on all four instruments

B7(b9), x 2 1 2 1 2B7(b9)21314×BEbACGb
Guitar
B7(b9), x 2 1 2 1 2B7(b9)21314×BEbACGb
Electric guitar
B7(b9), 9 8 10 10B7(b9)82134BEbAC
Cavaquinho
B7(b9), 4 0 5 6B7(b9)4123BCAEb
Ukulele

Where to use it: A dominant that resolves to a minor chord.

This is just one shape of B7(b9). In Chord & Fret, you hear every shape strummed string by string, in each instrument's own voice; open every variation on the neck, grouped by bass note; and set a capo — the diagrams redraw above it. Start free. Unlock everything with Pro. Plays offline.

See the whole neck in Chord & Fret →

Part of the Altered dominants family.

Other chords in this family

B7(#9)B7(#11)B7(b13)B7alt

See all chord types and qualities →