The B dominant seventh suspended fourth chord, abbreviated as B7sus4, is a four-note chord that replaces the major third of the standard B dominant seventh chord with a perfect fourth, creating a suspended and unresolved sound. Its notes are B (root), E (perfect fourth), F♯ (perfect fifth), and A (minor seventh), producing a harmonic tension that naturally seeks resolution, typically back to a B7 chord. This suspension gives the chord a distinctive open and airy quality, making it a popular choice in rock, pop, and jazz progressions where a sense of anticipation or musical “lift” is desired. The interplay of the fourth and minor seventh intervals enriches the chord’s texture, allowing musicians to add emotional depth and dynamic movement to their compositions while maintaining the dominant function within a key.
Name: B dominant seventh suspended fourth chord
Notes: B, E, F♯, A
Intervals: 1, 4, 5, ♭7
Chord symbol: B7sus4
Alternative symbols: B7(sus4), B7sus
Type: Tetrad (four-note chord)
B dominant seventh suspended fourth chord on the Staff
B dominant seventh suspended fourth chord on Piano
B dominant seventh suspended fourth chord on Guitar
B dominant seventh suspended fourth chord on Ukulele
Rowan Ellis is a musician and educator with a passion for exploring the language of harmony and melody. With years of experience across classical, jazz, and contemporary styles, Rowan breaks down music theory into clear, practical insights. His goal is to make chords and scales less intimidating and more inspiring for every musician.