What is D Major 7?
The D Major 7 guitar chord is formed by the notes D – F# – A – C# and is played using the fingering xx0222. It’s a major chord commonly used in Dmaj7-Bm7-Em7-A7.
D Major 7 Chord Diagram
Standard Position
6th (E) string: Don't play
5th (A) string: Don't play
4th (D) string: Open
3rd (G) string: 2th fret
2nd (B) string: 2th fret
1st (E) string: 2th fret
How to Play D Major 7
- Place fingertips close to the fret wire using the diagram xx0222.
- 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.
D Major 7 Variations
Dmaj7add9
xx0220
Adds the 9th for extra color
Dmaj7/F#
2x0222
First inversion with F# in bass
Popular Songs Using D Major 7
Famous Examples:
- • Blackbird
- • Here Comes the Sun
More Hits:
- • Norwegian Wood
- • Something
Common Chord Progressions with D Major 7
Dmaj7-Bm7-Em7-A7
Classic progression in D major
Gmaj7-Dmaj7-Em7-Cmaj7
Sophisticated folk progression
Dmaj7-G-A7-Dmaj7
A popular progression used in many songs
Practice Tips for D Major 7
1. Folk Music Essential
Perfect for adding sophistication to folk and country songs
2. Easy Transition
Just add the high C# to the regular D chord
Music Theory Behind D Major 7
Notes in D Major 7: D - F# - A - C#
Scale: D - E - F# - G - A - B - C# - D
Key Signature: Two sharps (F#, C#)
Relative Minor: Bm7
Dmaj7 is a major 7th chord built on the D major triad with the added major 7th (C#). It's particularly popular in folk and country music.
Related Chords to Learn
Master D Major 7 Today!
D Major 7 is a stepping stone to advanced playing. Take your time and practice regularly!