Chord chart for C major 9 / B (3rd inversion) Guitar Chord: Notes, Shapes & Bass Note | Guitar Wiz

Cmaj9/B guitar shapes

Popular fretboard positions with fingering suggestions

Showing 8 of 105 playable shapes

C major 9 / B (3rd inversion) guitar chord diagram showing fretboard positions
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About the chord

C major 9 / B (3rd inversion)

Cmaj9/B is the C major 9 / B (3rd inversion) guitar chord with B in the bass. It uses the notes C, E, G, B, and D and the interval formula 1-3-5-7-9.

The C major 9 major 9 chord adds a major ninth D to the major 7th, creating an expansive, ethereal sound. Its rich harmonic structure enhances the major tonality with a modern, sophisticated vibe, ideal for jazz, ambient, and cinematic music. With B in the bass, this voicing functions as the 3rd inversion of C major 9.

Also written as Cmaj9 and CM9/B.

Root note: C
Bass note: B
Chord tones: 5
Playable shapes: 105

Chord tones

CEGBD

Common guitar voicings

These are quick-start shapes for players who want the answer first and the deeper theory second.

Shape 1

x20010

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  1. 1 Place the 1st finger on the 1st fret of the 2nd string.
  2. 2 Place the 2nd finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th string.
  3. 3 Strum from the 5th string down.

Shape 2

755550

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  1. 1 Place the 1st finger on the 5th fret of the 2nd string, 3rd string, 4th string, and 5th string in barre position.
  2. 2 Place the 3rd finger on the 7th fret of the 6th string.
  3. 3 Strum from the 6th string down.

Notes & Intervals

Each note below shows how the chord is built from its root. This is the theory layer underneath the fretboard shapes.

C Unison (Root) 1

The root anchors the chord and defines its tonal center.

E Major Third 3

This note defines the chord's major quality and brings brightness to the sound.

G Perfect Fifth 5

The fifth reinforces stability and gives the chord its strong harmonic frame.

B Major Seventh 7

The major seventh adds a smooth, lush tension close to the root.

D Major Ninth 9

The ninth opens the chord up and adds a modern, spacious color.

Quick answers

What notes are in Cmaj9/B?

Cmaj9/B uses the notes C, E, G, B, and D. Its interval formula is 1-3-5-7-9.

What is another name for Cmaj9/B?

Cmaj9/B is also written as Cmaj9 and CM9/B.

How do you play Cmaj9/B on guitar?

Place the 1st finger on the 1st fret of the 2nd string. Place the 2nd finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th string. Strum from the 5th string down.

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