What is G5?
The G5 guitar chord is formed by the notes G – D and is played using the fingering 355xxx. It’s a power chord commonly used in G5-D5-A5.
G5 Chord Diagram
Standard Position
6th (E) string: 3th fret
5th (A) string: 5th fret
4th (D) string: 5th fret
3rd (G) string: Don't play
2nd (B) string: Don't play
1st (E) string: Don't play
How to Play G5
- Place fingertips close to the fret wire using the diagram 355xxx.
- 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.
G5 Variations
G5 (open)
3x003x
Open string voicing
G5 (10th fret)
x10,12,12,xx
Higher voicing
Popular Songs Using G5
Famous Examples:
- • Smoke on the Water
- • Wild Thing
More Hits:
- • Louie Louie
- • Come As You Are
Common Chord Progressions with G5
G5-D5-A5
Classic rock progression
G5-C5-D5
Popular progression in G
G5-F5-C5
A popular progression used in many songs
Practice Tips for G5
1. Rock Essential
One of the most important power chords in rock
2. Barre Technique
Good for practicing barre chord technique
Music Theory Behind G5
Notes in G5: G - D
Scale: G - A - B - C - D - E - F# - G
Key Signature: One sharp (F#)
Relative Major: Em
G5 is a power chord consisting of just the root (G) and fifth (D). It's neither major nor minor, making it perfect for rock and metal.
Related Chords to Learn
Master G5 Today!
G5 is perfect for beginners. Practice daily and you'll have it mastered in no time!