What is A Major 7?
The A Major 7 guitar chord is formed by the notes A – C# – E – G# and is played using the fingering x02120. It’s a major chord commonly used in Amaj7-F#m7-Bm7-E7.
A Major 7 Chord Diagram
Standard Position
6th (E) string: Don't play
5th (A) string: Open
4th (D) string: 2th fret
3rd (G) string: 1th fret
2nd (B) string: 2th fret
1st (E) string: Open
How to Play A Major 7
- Place fingertips close to the fret wire using the diagram x02120.
- Arch fingers so they don’t touch adjacent strings; keep thumb behind the neck.
- Pick each string to check for buzz or mute; adjust pressure and curl.
- Strum slow down-strums; add down–down–up–up–down–up when clean.
Pro Tip: Practice chord changes with a metronome at 70–90 BPM for one-minute rounds.
A Major 7 Variations
Amaj7add9
x02100
Adds the 9th for extra color
Amaj7/C#
x42120
First inversion with C# in bass
Popular Songs Using A Major 7
Famous Examples:
- • Isn't She Lovely
- • Superstition
More Hits:
- • Just the Way You Are
- • Killing Me Softly
Common Chord Progressions with A Major 7
Amaj7-F#m7-Bm7-E7
Classic progression in A major
Dmaj7-Amaj7-Bm7-Gmaj7
Sophisticated pop progression
Amaj7-D-E7-Amaj7
A popular progression used in many songs
Practice Tips for A Major 7
1. R&B and Jazz Essential
Perfect for soul, R&B, and jazz progressions
2. Smooth Sound
Creates a very warm, sophisticated sound
Music Theory Behind A Major 7
Notes in A Major 7: A - C# - E - G#
Scale: A - B - C# - D - E - F# - G# - A
Key Signature: Three sharps (F#, C#, G#)
Relative Minor: F#m7
Amaj7 is a major 7th chord built on the A major triad with the added major 7th (G#). It's essential for R&B and jazz music.
Related Chords to Learn
Master A Major 7 Today!
A Major 7 is a stepping stone to advanced playing. Take your time and practice regularly!