What is B Minor?
The B Minor guitar chord is formed by the notes B – D – F# and is played using the fingering x24432. It’s a minor chord commonly used in Bm-G-D-A.
B Minor Chord Diagram
Standard Position
6th (E) string: Don't play
5th (A) string: 2th fret
4th (D) string: 4th fret
3rd (G) string: 4th fret
2nd (B) string: 3th fret
1st (E) string: 2th fret
How to Play B Minor
- Place fingertips close to the fret wire using the diagram x24432.
- 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.
B Minor Variations
Bm (Barre)
x24432
Full barre chord - challenging but essential
Bm (Easy)
xx4432
Easier version using only 4 strings
Bm7
x24232
Minor 7th for softer, jazzier sound
Bm(add9)
x24422
Add 9th for modern, atmospheric color
Popular Songs Using B Minor
Famous Examples:
- • Eleanor Rigby
- • The Sound of Silence
- • Everybody Hurts
More Hits:
- • Mad World
- • Hurt
Common Chord Progressions with B Minor
Bm-G-D-A
vi-IV-I-V progression in D major - very popular
Bm-F#m-G-A
Minor progression with emotional depth
Bm-Em-A-D
Circle progression resolving to major
Practice Tips for B Minor
1. Barre Technique
Use side of index finger across 2nd fret. Keep thumb behind neck, apply even pressure.
2. Start with Easy Version
Master the 4-string version first before attempting the full barre.
3. Build Strength Gradually
Barre chords require finger strength. Practice in short sessions to avoid fatigue.
4. Emotional Expression
B minor is very emotional - practice dynamics and vibrato for expressive playing.
Common Substitutions for B Minor
Chord Family: G Major
B Minor functions as iii in the key of G Major.
Music Theory Behind B Minor
Notes in B Minor: B - D - F#
Scale: B - C# - D - E - F# - G - A - B
Key Signature: 2 sharps (F#, C#)
Relative Major: D major
B minor is the relative minor of D major, sharing the same key signature. It's a deeply emotional chord often used in ballads and introspective songs. Mastering this barre chord is crucial for intermediate players.
Master B Minor Today!
B Minor is a stepping stone to advanced playing. Take your time and practice regularly!