B Chord

Learn how to play the B chord on guitar using barre shapes and different positions for both B major and B minor.

How to Play B Chord on Guitar

The B chord comes from the B major scale. It uses the 1st (B), 3rd (D#), and 5th (F#) notes. The B minor chord uses D instead of D#.

B major doesn't have a simple open shape, so most players learn it as a barre chord. A common version starts on the 2nd fret, using the A-shape barre. You bar the 2nd fret and shape the rest of the chord like A major.

B minor also starts on the 2nd fret, but you use the minor barre shape — the same as A minor but barred. It sounds sad and emotional and is used often in pop and rock.

Though B chords are harder for beginners, they are very useful. Once you get comfortable with barre chords, you'll be able to play B major and B minor smoothly.