Fmaj7(b5) guitar chord (F Major 7th, Flat 5th)

Symbols: maj7(b5)

Steps: 1-3-b5-7

Notes: F-A-B-E

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

Variation 1

Fmaj7(b5) guitar chord - variation 1
  • Place your ring finger on the G (3rd) string at the 2nd fret and press down
  • Use your middle finger to press the D (4th) string down on the 2nd fret
  • Press down on the low E (6th) string at the 1st fret using your index finger
  • Now, strum all the strings up to the 2nd string, mute the 5th string

Variation 2

Fmaj7(b5) guitar chord - variation 2
  • Apply a barre with your pinky across the 5th fret, covering the 1st to the 2nd strings
  • Press the G (3rd) string on the 4th fret with your middle finger
  • Place your index finger on the D (4th) string at the 3rd fret and press down
  • Now, strum all the strings starting from the 4th string

Variation 3

Fmaj7(b5) guitar chord - variation 3
  • Press down on the E (1st) string at the 7th fret using your index finger
  • Stretch out your pinky to the 10th fret of the B (2nd) string and press down
  • Place your ring finger on the G (3rd) string at the 9th fret and press down
  • Use your middle finger to press the A (5th) string down on the 8th fret
  • Now, strum all the strings starting from the 5th string, mute the 4th string

Variation 4

Fmaj7(b5) guitar chord - variation 4
  • Position your index finger on the B (2nd) string at the 12th fret and press down
  • Place your pinky on the G (3rd) string at the 14th fret and press down
  • Use your ring finger to press the D (4th) string down on the 14th fret
  • Press down on the low E (6th) string at the 13th fret using your middle finger
  • Now, strum all the strings up to the 2nd string, mute the 5th string