Exploring Suspended Chords in Songwriting: Techniques and Examples

When it comes to adding depth and character to your music, suspended chords are a powerful tool. This article will explore both the technical aspects and intuitive methods of using suspended chords in songwriting, providing practical examples and insights for musicians of all levels.

Understanding Suspended Chords

From a technical standpoint, a suspended chord, commonly denoted as Csus2 (C7th) or Csus4 (C4th), involves ‘suspending’ the third of a chord. In a major chord like C, for example, instead of the typical C - E - G, a suspended chord might consist of C - F - G (sus2) or C - G - F (sus4).

Worked-Out Answer for Suspended Chords

The worked-out answer to using suspended chords effectively involves:

Identifying the target chord and noting the melody’s position relative to the third of the chord. Inserting the suspended fourth (sus4) or second (sus2) in place of the third to create a tension and resolution effect. Resolving the suspension to the actual third of the chord, or leaving it in place for a more ambiguous effect.

For instance, in a chord progression like C - Am - F - G, by replacing the major chords with their suspended counterparts—the suspension should be resolved as the chord changes. This creates a smoother and more dynamic flow through the progression.

Intuitive Approach to Suspended Chords

For a more practical and experimental approach, the intuitive answer is to:

Experiment with suspended chords while playing or singing. Listen and judge if the chord sounds pleasing or if it disrupts the flow of the melody.

This approach allows you to dive into the creative process and trust your instincts, leading to unique and captivating musical experiences.

Practical Examples for Suspended Chords

To illustrate, consider the chord progression C - Am - F - G. By substituting each major chord with its equivalent suspended version (C - Am - Fs - G), the progression can take on a new and potentially pleasing character. This technique can be adapted for various genres, from pop to metal.

Suspended Chords in Popular Songs

Suspended chords can be found in many iconic songs. For example, Tom Petty’s “Free Fallin’” opens with the chords D - Dsus - D. This progression utilizes the suspended effect to create a memorable and catchy hook.

Another interesting example is the Beatles’ work, where suspended chords are often employed to add depth and variation. Songs like Here Comes the Sun and Michael Jackson showcase this technique effectively.

Conclusion

While the usage of suspended chords depends largely on personal taste and the context of the song, incorporating them can significantly enhance your songwriting and performance. Whether you dive into the technicalities or simply experiment, suspended chords provide a versatile tool for creating memorable and emotionally resonant music.