Powerchords can either be a two or a three string chord. They are written in the music by a letter followed by the number 5. The letter name corresponds to the lower pitched note being played (called the root note). For example, in the power chord below, the lower pitched note (the root) is note G and the higher pitched note is note D which is a fifth higher in pitch. Thus, this is G5 chord. Learn more about chords here.

Bigger is not always better

When you play with distortion on your amplifier, 6 string chords can sound messy. This is where powerchords come into the picture. They are perfectly suited for heavier music styles because they provide a big sound that is clear.

Power chords can be heard in most rock and heavy metal music. Examples of songs using power chords are Godzilla (Blue Oyster Cult) and Smells Like Teen Spirit (Nirvana).

Two Finger Powerchords

Below are two examples of what a powerchord shape looks like. Click on each image to enlarge it. The one on the left has the root on the 6th string and the one on the right has the root on the 5th string. The wonderful thing about power chords is that you can move either of the shapes up or down on the neck of the guitar.

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