Drop 2 Chords (min7b5)
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Drop 2 chords can be played on any set of four strings, but they are given here using the middle four strings. Take a moment to review the chord configuration. Memorizing this configuration can make it much easier to construct a large variety of chord types.
The Chord Configuration
Note that this is the same configuration, no matter what string set is used and no matter what chord type (major7, minor7, dominant7, min7b5, dimished7...)
Strings | 6 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Root Position | x | R | 5 | 7 | 3 | x |
1st Inv | x | 3 | 7 | R | 5 | x |
2nd Inv | x | 5 | R | 3 | 7 | x |
3rd Inv | x | 7 | 3 | 5 | R | x |
Root Position Drop 2
First-inversion Drop 2
Second-inversion Drop 2
Third-inversion Drop 2
Key Tasks
- Practice all of the minor 7th drop 2 chords.
- Relate all of the chords back to the original major 7th pattern that they originate from. For instance, play the root position Cmaj7, then convert it to C-7 and watch the chord’s 3rd and 7th drop down a half-step.
- Use all of the chord forms to practice ii-7♭5-V7-i chord progressions to cement your knowledge further; practice starting the ii from each inversion.
As the creator of Hub Guitar, Grey has compiled hundreds of guitar lessons, written several books, and filmed hundreds of video lessons. He teaches private lessons in his Boston studio, as well as via video chat through TakeLessons.