D7 Chord
Chord Diagram
X = Don't play this string
O = Play open string
Numbers = Finger placement
Finger Positions
1st Finger (Index)
2nd fret of the G string (3rd string)
2nd Finger (Middle)
2nd fret of the high E string (1st string)
3rd Finger (Ring)
2nd fret of the B string (2nd string)
Pro Tip: The D7 chord is easier than many other 7th chords since it only requires three fingers all on the same fret. Perfect for beginners learning their first 7th chord!
Understanding the D7 Chord
The D7 chord is a dominant seventh chord built from the D major triad (D-F#-A) with an added minor seventh interval (C). This chord is extremely popular in country, blues, and folk music, and it naturally wants to resolve to G major.
Chord Tones
- • Root: D
- • Major 3rd: F#
- • Perfect 5th: A
- • Minor 7th: C
Musical Function
- • V chord in the key of G major
- • Creates strong pull toward G major
- • Essential in country and bluegrass
- • Common in 12-bar blues
D7 Chord Variations
D7 (Open)
Basic open position
xx0212
D7 (Alt)
Alternative fingering
xx0213
D7sus4
Suspended fourth
xx0233
Common Progressions with D7
D7 - G
Classic dominant to tonic resolution
G - C - D7 - G
Classic country progression
Em - A7 - D7 - G
Descending progression in G
Practice Tips for D7 Chord
Common Mistakes
- • Playing the A or low E strings accidentally
- • Not pressing firmly enough on 2nd fret
- • Fingers too flat against the fretboard
- • Crowding fingers together
Practice Exercises
- • Practice D to D7 transitions
- • Try D7 to G major resolution
- • Work on G-C-D7-G progression
- • Practice country strumming patterns
Popular Songs Using D7 Chord
House of the Rising Sun
The Animals
Wagon Wheel
Darius Rucker
Country Roads
John Denver
Hey Good Lookin'
Hank Williams
Your Cheatin' Heart
Hank Williams
Folsom Prison Blues
Johnny Cash