The E-sharp suspended fourth chord (E♯sus4) is a three-note chord consisting of the notes E♯, A♯, and B♯. This chord is created by replacing the major third of the E-sharp major chord with a perfect fourth (A♯), producing a suspended, open sound that lacks a clear major or minor quality. The E♯sus4 chord is commonly used in rock, pop, and contemporary music to create a sense of tension, anticipation, or melodic suspension within a progression. Its distinctive tonal character comes from the interaction of the root (E♯), perfect fourth (A♯), and perfect fifth (B♯), producing a harmonious yet unresolved texture. Enharmonically, the E♯sus4 chord is equivalent to the Fsus4 chord, meaning it sounds the same but is notated differently, offering flexibility in theoretical analysis and key signature application. Its role as a suspended chord makes it particularly effective for leading smoothly into major or minor chords and adding harmonic interest and color to musical compositions.
Name: E-sharp suspended fourth chord
Notes: E♯, A♯, B♯
Intervals: 1, 4, 5
Chord symbol: E♯sus4
Alternative symbols: E♯(sus4), E♯sus
Type: Triad (three-note chord)
E-sharp suspended fourth chord on the Staff
E-sharp suspended fourth chord on Piano
E-sharp suspended fourth chord on Guitar
E-sharp 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.