Chord Shapes

Suspended 2nd

Intervals: 1-2-5. A triad-like chord where the 3rd is replaced by the 2nd, removing major/minor identity and producing an open, modern sound. In rock, pop and folk it often functions as a gentle embellishment of I or IV, resolving to a major triad (2→3) or remaining static in modal progressions. On guitar, common shapes keep the 2nd in the top voice so that its resolution is clearly audible. In more modal or ambient jazz contexts, sus2 chords over pedal bass notes can act as stable sonorities that do not need to resolve at all, contributing to a sense of spaciousness and simplicity.