Cmaj7(b5) guitar chord (C Major 7th, Flat 5th)

Symbols: maj7(b5)

Steps: 1-3-b5-7

Notes: C-E-Gb-B

The C maj7b5 chord is a rare and intriguing chord that flattens the fifth of the major 7th. With notes C, E, Gb and B, it delivers a unique, airy tension that can add depth to more experimental progressions. Below, you'll find four variations how to play the "C maj7(b5)" chord, each featuring finger placements and an audio sample.

Variation 1

Use your index finger to press the E (1st) string down on the 2nd fret
Stretch out your pinky to the 5th fret of the B (2nd) string and press down
Press the G (3rd) string on the 4th 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, mute the 4th string

Variation 2

Press down on the B (2nd) string at the 7th fret using your index finger
Press the G (3rd) string on the 9th fret with your pinky
Place your ring finger on the D (4th) string at the 9th fret and press down
Use your middle finger to press the low E (6th) string down on the 8th fret
Now, strum all the strings up to the 2nd string, mute the 5th string

Variation 3

Apply a barre with your index finger across the 7th fret, covering the 1st to the 2nd strings
With your ring finger, press down on the G (3rd) string at the 9th fret
Stretch out your pinky to the 10th fret of the D (4th) string and press down
Now, strum all the strings starting from the 4th string

Variation 4

Barre the 12th fret with your pinky, extending over the 1st to the 2nd strings
With your middle finger, press down on the G (3rd) string at the 11th fret
Press the D (4th) string on the 10th fret with your index finger
Now, strum all the strings starting from the 4th string

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