Notes in E7
The E7 chord contains 4 notes: E, A♭, B, D
Intervals
| Interval | Semitones | Note | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| R | 0 | E | Root |
| 3 | 4 | A♭ | Major 3rd |
| 5 | 7 | B | Perfect 5th |
| ♭7 | 10 | D | Minor 7th |
About E Dominant 7th Chords
Dominant 7th chords add a flatted 7th to a major triad, creating tension that wants to resolve. They're the backbone of blues, jazz, funk, and rock. In a standard key, the dominant 7th chord built on the 5th degree naturally resolves to the I chord.
Compatible Scales & Modes
These scales contain all the notes of E7 and can be used for soloing, improvising, and writing melodies over this chord.
EXPLORE MODES
Playing E dominant seventh on Guitar
The E dominant seventh chord, spelled E, A♭, B, D, occupies a specific harmonic role that depends on the musical context. In the key of E major and E minor, this chord can function as a primary harmony or as a passing color depending on where it appears in the progression. Understanding which scale degrees produce E-rooted chords helps you predict chord progressions and improvise melodies that complement the harmony.
On guitar, E dominant seventh voicings benefit from the low open E string giving maximum bass resonance. The physical shape of this chord on the fretboard determines its tonal character — the same notes arranged in different voicings produce noticeably different sounds due to string gauge, fret position, and overtone content. Experiment with playing E dominant seventh in multiple positions to find the voicing that best fits the register and texture of the music you are working on.
The E dominant seventh creates harmonic tension through its minor seventh interval. This tension naturally resolves down a fifth, making E7 the strongest pull toward the chord a fifth below it. This V-to-I resolution is the engine driving most Western harmonic progressions.
When practicing E dominant seventh, use the compatible scales listed above to improvise melodies and riffs. Start by playing the chord, then explore the scale tones one at a time to hear how each note sounds against the harmony. This ear training exercise connects your theoretical knowledge of E-rooted chords to practical musicianship skills that improve your playing across all genres and styles.