What is F Major 7?
The F Major 7 guitar chord is formed by the notes F – A – C – E and is played using the fingering xx3210. It’s a major chord commonly used in Fmaj7-G7-Em7-Am7.
F Major 7 Chord Diagram
Standard Position
6th (E) string: Don't play
5th (A) string: Don't play
4th (D) string: 3th fret
3rd (G) string: 2th fret
2nd (B) string: 1th fret
1st (E) string: Open
How to Play F Major 7
- Place fingertips close to the fret wire using the diagram xx3210.
- 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.
F Major 7 Variations
Fmaj7#11
xx3200
Adds the sharp 11th for modern jazz color
Fmaj7/A
x03210
First inversion with A in bass
Popular Songs Using F Major 7
Famous Examples:
- • Girl from Ipanema
- • Autumn Leaves
More Hits:
- • Fly Me to the Moon
- • My Funny Valentine
Common Chord Progressions with F Major 7
Fmaj7-G7-Em7-Am7
Classic jazz progression
C-Fmaj7-Em7-Am7
Modern pop progression with jazz flavor
Fmaj7-Em7-Dm7-G7
A popular progression used in many songs
Practice Tips for F Major 7
1. Jazz Essential
One of the most important chords for jazz and sophisticated pop
2. Smooth Voice Leading
Works great in progressions with other 7th chords
Common Substitutions for F Major 7
Music Theory Behind F Major 7
Notes in F Major 7: F - A - C - E
Scale: F - G - A - Bb - C - D - E - F
Key Signature: One flat (Bb)
Relative Minor: Dm7
Fmaj7 is a major 7th chord built on the F major triad with the added major 7th (E). It's essential for jazz and provides a sophisticated sound in pop music.
Related Chords to Learn
Master F Major 7 Today!
F Major 7 is a stepping stone to advanced playing. Take your time and practice regularly!