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Csus2 Chord

Chord Diagram

C suspended 2nd chord fingering diagram for guitar. Place your index finger on the third fret of the A string and ring finger on the third fret of the D string. The low E string is not played, while the G, B, and high E strings are played open.✕○○○○31EADGBE

X = Don't play this string

O = Play open string

Numbers = Finger placement

Finger Positions

1st Finger (Index)

1st fret of the B string (2nd string)

3rd Finger (Ring)

3rd fret of the A string (5th string)

Open Strings

D, G, and high E strings play open

Pro Tip: The suspended 2nd creates an open, dreamy sound. Let the open strings ring clearly for the best effect.

Understanding Suspended Chords

The Csus2 chord replaces the 3rd (E) of a C major chord with the 2nd (D). This creates harmonic tension that wants to resolve back to the major chord, making it perfect for creating emotional movement in progressions.

Chord Tones

C (root) - D (2nd) - G (5th)

Resolution

Naturally resolves to C major

Csus2 Chord Variations

Csus2 (Open)

Standard fingering

x30013

Csus2 (Barre)

8th fret position

8-10-10-10-8-8

Csus2add9

Add 9th for richness

x30033

Common Progressions with Csus2

Csus2 - C - G - Am

Creates beautiful tension and resolution

Csus2CGAm

Am - Csus2 - F - G

Emotional ballad progression

AmCsus2FG

Csus2 - Gsus2 - Am - F

Double suspension for atmospheric sound

Csus2Gsus2AmF

Practice Tips for Csus2

Common Mistakes

  • • Muting the open D or G strings
  • • Not letting open strings ring clearly
  • • Playing the low E string (should be muted)
  • • Rushing the resolution to C major

Practice Exercises

  • • Practice Csus2 to C transitions slowly
  • • Strum pattern: Down-Down-Up-Down-Up
  • • Fingerpick to hear each note clearly
  • • Try arpeggios to understand the harmony

Popular Songs Using Csus2

Tears in Heaven

Eric Clapton

Intermediate

Dust in the Wind

Kansas

Intermediate

The Man Who Sold the World

David Bowie

Intermediate

Mad World

Gary Jules

Beginner

Hurt

Johnny Cash

Intermediate

Black

Pearl Jam

Advanced
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