Explore the unique sound of suspended 2nd chords, or “sus2 chords,” and learn how to use them to add depth to your playing. This post covers the theory behind sus chords, practical tips for incorporating them into your music, and popular songs that feature these chords.

Suspended Chord Theory:

Suspended chords are a type of chord where the usual third note is replaced by either a second (sus2) or a fourth (sus4). This change gives the chord an open, unfinished sound, which doesn’t feel clearly happy (major) or sad (minor). Because of this, suspended chords are great for creating a sense of tension in music. They often lead into a regular major or minor chord, which gives a feeling of resolution or completion.

Suspended 2nd Chord Theory:

The sus2 chord, short for “suspended 2nd,” is a type of chord that creates a sense of tension or openness due to its unique structure. Here’s a breakdown of the sus2 chord theory:

Chord Structure:

A sus2 chord is built by taking a major or minor triad and “suspending” the third by replacing it with the second note of the scale.

The formula for a sus2 chord is:

1. Root (1st note of the scale)
2. 2nd (2nd note of the scale)
3. 5th (5th note of the scale)

For Example:

Csus2 Chord Construction:

1. Root: C
2. 2nd: D
3. 5th: G

How sus2 sound like:

Lets play each note for sus 2:

Suspended 2nd Chord Chart / Diagram:

Sus2 Chord Application:

The sus2 chord brings a unique flavor to your music, making it ideal for adding variety to standard chord progressions. Its open and airy sound can brighten up a song, making it feel more spacious and light. You can use a sus2 chord in place of a regular major chord to give a different vibe, especially in intros or softer sections of a song. It’s also effective when you want to create a sense of anticipation before moving back to a more resolved chord. Whether you’re writing a ballad or a pop tune, the sus2 chord can add a fresh twist to your composition.

Sus2 Chord – Song Examples:

1. Summer of ’69 – Bryan Adams
The iconic rock anthem “Summer of ’69” by Bryan Adams opens with a dynamic chord progression that captures the essence of youthful nostalgia. The sus2 chords, particularly in the intro and verses, add a bright, open sound, enhancing the song’s energetic and timeless vibe.

Download Summer of 69 – Brayan Adams Chords Or Summer of ’69 – Bryan Adams TAB

2. Exit Music For a Film – Radiohead
In this haunting track, subtle harmonic shifts create a sense of tension and foreboding. The resulting cinematic atmosphere makes the song a standout in Radiohead’s catalog.

Download Exit Music For a Film – Radiohead Chords Or Exit Music For a Film – Radiohead TAB

3. Have a Nice Day – Stereophonics
This song features a melodic structure where the verses carry a layer of openness and lightness. The harmonic choices complement the upbeat yet introspective lyrics, balancing energy and reflection.

Download Have a Nice Day – Stereophonics Chords Or Have a Nice Day – Stereophonics TAB

4. Other Side of the World – KT Tunstall
KT Tunstall’s “Other Side of the World” uses sus2 chords to weave a delicate, airy texture into the guitar work. This choice enhances the song’s introspective nature, adding a subtle complexity to the arrangement that resonates with the listener on a deeper level.

Download Other Side of the World – KT Tunstall Chords Or Other Side of the World – KT Tunstall TAB

5. Free Fallin – Tom Petty
In Tom Petty’s classic “Free Fallin” the iconic chord progression is given its expansive, open quality through the use of sus2 chords. This harmonic structure perfectly encapsulates the song’s laid-back, free-spirited essence, making it an enduring favorite.

Download Free Fallin – Tom Petty Chords Or Free Fallin – Tom Petty TAB

Also Check:

Augmented Chords in Music: Song Examples, Triads, Charts and Theory