Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

To play the G Suspended 2nd chord on guitar, find the notes G, A, D across the fretboard. The root G typically goes on the 6th or 5th string. Use the interactive fretboard above to see exact finger placement for this triad chord shape.

Guitar Chord

Gsus2 Guitar Chord

Replaces the third with a major second. Open, unresolved, modern sound. Learn the G Suspended 2nd chord on guitar with interactive fretboard, audio playback, and multiple voicings.

Notes
G – A – D
Intervals
0 – 2 – 7
Type
triad chord
G A D
E
A
D
G
B
e
3
5
7
9
12
3 notes · Standard (E A D G B E)

Playing the Gsus2 Guitar Chord

The Gsus2 chord is a suspended 2nd chord built on the root G. It contains 3 notes: G, A, D. On guitar, this chord can be played in multiple positions across the fretboard, from open shapes to barre chord voicings.

Replaces the third with a major second. Open, unresolved, modern sound. For guitarists, mastering the Gsus2 chord unlocks many songs in the key of G.

Recommended Gsus2 Guitar Voicing

The interactive fretboard above shows a practical Gsus2 voicing. The chord notes (G, A, D) appear as highlighted positions. Tap any highlighted fret to hear that note, or click "Play Gsus2" to hear the full chord.

Interval Structure of Gsus2

Degree Interval Semitones Note in G
Root Root (R) 0 G
3rd Major 2nd 2 A
5th Perfect 5th 7 D

Common Progressions with Gsus2 on Guitar

  • I–IV–V: Gsus2 – Csus2 – Dsus2 (foundation of blues and rock)
  • I–V–vi–IV: Gsus2 – D – Em – C (modern pop staple)
  • I–vi–IV–V: Gsus2 – Em – C – D (50s doo-wop)

Tips for Practicing Gsus2 on Guitar

Start by finding the root note G on the 6th and 5th strings. Build the chord shape from there. Practice transitioning between Gsus2 and nearby chords like C and D. Use slow, deliberate strums and check each string rings clearly.

Other G Guitar Chords

G
Major
Gm
Minor
G7
Dominant 7th
Gmaj7
Major 7th
Gm7
Minor 7th
Gdim
Diminished

Suspended 2nd Chord in All 12 Keys

Csus2 C#sus2 Dsus2 D#sus2 Esus2 Fsus2 F#sus2 Gsus2 G#sus2 Asus2 A#sus2 Bsus2
Virtual Guitar
Interactive fretboard
Gsus2 Piano
Piano chord diagram
G Scale
Notes that fit this chord
Songs
Find songs using Gsus2

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Gsus2 Guitar Chord — FAQ

Everything you need to know about our browser-based Web Audio engine, instruments, and music theory workspace.

How do I play the Gsus2 chord on guitar?

To play the G Suspended 2nd chord on guitar, find the notes G, A, D across the fretboard.

The root G typically goes on the 6th or 5th string. Use the interactive fretboard above to see exact finger placement for this triad chord shape.

What notes make up the Gsus2 guitar chord?

The G Suspended 2nd guitar chord contains 3 notes: G, A, D.

These are derived from the suspended 2nd interval formula applied to the root G.

What is the best guitar voicing for Gsus2?

The most common guitar voicing for Gsus2 uses a root position with G on the 6th or 5th string.

The exact frets depend on your preferred voicing — the interactive fretboard above shows a recommended open or barre position shape.

Is Gsus2 a beginner-friendly guitar chord?

Gsus2 is a triad, making it accessible for beginners.

Focus on clean fretting of each 3 notes and strumming only the target strings.

What is a barre chord version of Gsus2?

A barre chord version of Gsus2 uses your index finger pressed across all strings at a specific fret, with the remaining fingers forming the chord shape.

The root G determines the barre position on the 6th or 5th string.

What are common chord progressions with Gsus2 on guitar?

Gsus2 is widely used in jazz ii–V–I turnarounds, blues progressions, and modal funk vamps.

How does Gsus2 sound different on guitar vs piano?

The Gsus2 chord contains the same notes (G, A, D) on both instruments.

On guitar, the voicing depends on string selection and fret position, creating a different timbre. Guitar chords often include string-specific articulations like hammer-ons and pull-offs.

Can I play Gsus2 as an open chord on guitar?

Open voicings of Gsus2 require G to be playable within the first 3 frets.

If open shapes aren't available, use a barre chord voicing instead.

What is the difference between the Gsus2 chord on guitar and ukulele?

The Gsus2 chord contains the same notes (G, A, D) on both instruments.

However, the guitar has 6 strings in EADGBE tuning while the ukulele has 4 strings in GCEA tuning, so the finger shapes are completely different.

How do I practice transitioning to and from Gsus2 on guitar?

Practice moving between Gsus2 and its neighboring chords in the key of G major: C and D.

Use a metronome at a slow tempo (60 BPM) and focus on clean, simultaneous finger placement.