You know it from…

The Doobie Brothers – Long Train Runnin’ Oasis – Wonderwall America – A Horse With No Name

How it works…

Once again, we start off with a simple chord – in this instance we’ll use the trusty Am (AC E) as our foundation. The simplest way to extend this is to add a b 7th (AC E G) into the mix. Then, keeping b 7th, the from there you also can add a 9th (AC E G B) or an 11th (AC E G D) for more colourful sounding chords.

When to use it…

Wherever there’s a minor chord You can nearly always change a basic minor chord to a minor 7th – the change in character is subtle. 9th and 11th extensions may need more experimentation.

When a minor chord is too moody Minor 7th chords have a lighter, mellower mood than pure minor chords. If you’re after a nebulous, hazy mood the m7 is the right chord for you.

M7th chords have A lighter, MELOWER mood than pure minorS