C7(b5,b9) guitar chord (C Dominant 7th, Flat 5th, Flat 9th)

Symbols: 7(b5,b9), 7(-5,-9)

Steps: 1-3-b5-b7-b9

Notes: C-E-Gb-Bb-Db

The C 7(b5,b9) chord combines a flat fifth and a flat ninth to the dominant seventh, resulting in a highly dissonant and dramatic sound. Its notes C, E, Gb, Bb and Db are often used in jazz to heighten emotional tension. Below, you'll find two variations how to play the "C 7(b5,b9)" chord, each featuring finger placements and an audio sample.

Variation 1
C7(b5,b9) guitar chord - variation 1
  • Place a barre using your index finger on the 2nd fret from the 1st to the 4th strings
  • Press the G (3rd) string on the 3rd fret with your ring finger
  • Place your middle finger on the A (5th) string at the 3rd fret and press down
  • Now, strum all the strings starting from the 5th string

Variation 2
C7(b5,b9) guitar chord - variation 2
  • Use your middle finger to press the B (2nd) string down on the 7th fret
  • Press down on the G (3rd) string at the 6th fret using your index finger
  • Press the D (4th) string on the 8th fret with your pinky
  • Place your ring finger on the low E (6th) string at the 8th fret and press down
  • Now, strum all the strings up to the 2nd string, mute the 5th string

Other C Chords

[ Table ]

Other Dominant 7th, Flat 5th, Flat 9th Chords