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B Major Chord

Chord Diagram

B major chord fingering diagram for guitar. Use your index finger to bar the second fret from the A string to the high E string, ring finger on the fourth fret of the D string, pinky on the fourth fret of the G string, and middle finger on the fourth fret of the B string. The low E string is not played.2341EADGBE

X = Don't play this string

O = Play open string

Numbers = Finger placement

Thick line = Barre (one finger across multiple strings)

Finger Positions

1st Finger (Index)

Barre across all strings at 2nd fret

2nd Finger (Middle)

4th fret of the D string (4th string)

3rd Finger (Ring)

4th fret of the G string (3rd string)

4th Finger (Pinky)

4th fret of the B string (2nd string)

Advanced Challenge: B major is one of the most challenging barre chords. Master F major first, then work on this chord!

B Chord Variations

B Major 7

Add jazzy flavor

224242

Bsus2

Open, airy sound

224422

Bsus4

Creates tension

224522

Common Progressions with B

B - E - F#

Classic 3-chord progression in B major

BEF#

B - G#m - E - F#

Popular in rock and pop ballads

BG#mEF#

B - C#m - F# - B

Great for building tension and release

BC#mF#B

Practice Tips for B Chord

Common Mistakes

  • • Not pressing the barre firmly enough
  • • Thumb position too high or low
  • • Trying to learn this chord too early
  • • Not building up finger strength gradually

Practice Exercises

  • • Master F major barre chord first
  • • Practice just the barre at 2nd fret
  • • Build finger strength with daily practice
  • • Try B power chord (B5) as stepping stone

Popular Songs Using B Chord

Don't Stop Believin'

Journey

Advanced

Mr. Brightside

The Killers

Advanced

Champagne Supernova

Oasis

Advanced

Iris

Goo Goo Dolls

Intermediate

Boulevard of Broken Dreams

Green Day

Intermediate

Every Rose Has Its Thorn

Poison

Intermediate
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