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E5 guitar shapes
Popular fretboard positions with fingering suggestions
Showing 8 of 241 playable shapes
About the chord
E5 guitar chord
E5 is the E5 guitar chord. It uses the notes E and B and the interval formula 1-5.
The E5 power chord (5th), consisting of the root (E5) and perfect fifth B, provides a bold, open sound without major or minor coloration. Its simplicity and neutrality make it a staple in rock, punk, and metal for driving rhythms and raw power.
Also written as E(no 3).
Root note: E
Quality: 5
Chord tones: 2
Playable shapes: 241
Chord tones
EB
Common guitar voicings
These are quick-start shapes for players who want the answer first and the deeper theory second.
Shape 1
022400
- 1 Place the 1st finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th string.
- 2 Place the 2nd finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string.
- 3 Place the 3rd finger on the 4th fret of the 3rd string.
- 4 Strum from the 6th string down.
Shape 2
022xxx
- 1 Place the 1st finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th string.
- 2 Place the 2nd finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string.
- 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.
E Unison (Root) 1
The root anchors the chord and defines its tonal center.
B Perfect Fifth 5
The fifth reinforces stability and gives the chord its strong harmonic frame.
Quick answers
What notes are in E5?
E5 uses the notes E and B. Its interval formula is 1-5.
What is another name for E5?
E5 is also written as E(no 3).
How do you play E5 on guitar?
Place the 1st finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th string. Place the 2nd finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string. Place the 3rd finger on the 4th fret of the 3rd string. Strum from the 6th string down.
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