The major chord is the most famous and used chord. It is the foundation of many other more advanced chords. We sometimes call this chord a major triad.
You can find the major triad by looking at the C major scale. Take out the 1st (C), 3rd (E) and 5th (G) note. Now you have created a C major chord.
You could do the same with a D major scale by taking out D, F# and A. So the major chord is made up out of a root, major third and a perfect fifth.
Major chord: a happy chord?
The major chord is often defined as a "happy" chord. It's a bit strange, because you will also find lots of major chords in sad songs (Tears in Heaven). So why do we think the major chord is happy, bright and open? First of all, it depends on the context. When you hear a major chord by itself, it sounds really open. But it can still be part of a chord progression that caries a different feeling with it.
The major chord has a simple ratio and is consistent (while, for example, the minor chord has a more complex ratio). Therefore, it's easy to listen to and our ears like the chord. The major third interval plays a big part in the open sound of a major chord.
So is the major chord a happy chord? There's always room for discussion. Some say that culture and education also play a big part in how a person relates to a chord. In Western culture we classify the Major chord as happy and open, but in other cultures they might see this differently. But let's classify the major chord as a big and open chord. It's used in many beautiful songs and melodies that all have their own sound.
Inversions
Did you know that it doesn't matter in which order the notes are played? If the root is not at the bottom of the chord, we talk about an inversion. So E-G-C is the first inversion of C, also called E/C (meaning E over C). And G-C-E is the second inversion (G/C aka G over C).
Usage and play
You will find major chords in almost every song. A very common chord progression is 1-4-5. These chords are build on de first, fourth and fifth degree of the major scale, and called diatonic chords.
An example of a chord that uses this chord progression is Stir it Up by Bob Marley. This song is in C major and uses the chords C, F and G.
Examples
In the following songs you'll find only major chords:
- The Beatles - Good Day Sunshine
- Jimi Hendris - Hey Joe
- The Beatles - I Am the Walrus
- Beach Boys - Steamboot
- Tom Petty - You Wreck Me
