Suspended Chords
The chord symbol for a suspended chord is the major chord symbol plus the word sus (or sometimes sus4). The suspended chord is often used to add interest to a progression if there is a long section of music containing only one chord.
D Suspended
Dsus
Hold a D major chord shape then place your fourth finger on the third fret of the 1st string.
The open circle on the chord diagram indicates that you hold the major chord shape and add the suspended note with your fourth finger. Suspended chords are nearly always played just before or after the major chord, so it is easier to change between them if the major chord shape is held in position.
A Suspended
Asus
Hold an A major chord shape then place your fourth finger on the third fret of the 2nd string.
E Suspended
Esus
Hold an E major chord shape then place your fourth finger on the second fret of the 3rd string.
This progression is two bars long. Change to the E sus chord (i.e., add your fourth finger) on beat 3 +.
The next progression contains all three of the sus chords you have learned so far. Change to the sus chord on the "+" after the 2 count. Use pivot and slide fingers wherever possible between chord changes.
Here is a melody accompanied by the sus chords you have just learned.
Overdrive and Distortion
Guitar Effects…
One of the great sounds you can make with an electric guitar and an amp is Overdrive or Distortion. This is usually achieved with the help of a pedal which is plugged in between the guitar and amp. The one shown here is an Ibanez Tube Screamer. There are many distortion pedals available with names like Metal Zone, Super Distortion and Fuzz Box. Try some out at a music store.
