Cmaj9 chord on guitar
Cmaj9 is the major ninth chord: C, E, G, B and D (1–3–5–7–9). On guitar, the diagram shape is x 3 0 0 0 0, with C in the bass.
On the guitar, six strings give the chord room to breathe — some positions use them all, others ask you to mute the lowest ones. In this Cmaj9 voicing the bass is C and the shape sits at fret 3, ringing 4 open strings. Its hollow wooden body gives every chord a warm, natural ring that blooms and fades on its own.
Notes and formula of Cmaj9
Notes in Cmaj9: C – E – G – B – DFormula: 1 – 3 – 5 – 7 – 9In 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.
Where to use it
Ballads, bossa nova and neo-soul love this chord to open or close a song. It is the natural pick when a plain maj7 feels too plain — the ninth adds an extra glow without disturbing the rest.
See also
Part of the Extended family.