Major · beginner
G over B(G/B)
G major with B in the bass. This common first inversion makes the bass move by step from C to G/B to Am.
Notes
GBD
Intervals
R35
Finger placement
- AIndex finger (1): fret 2 of the A string.
- BMiddle finger (2): fret 3 of the high E string.
Your progress
Not tracked yet
Sounding notes shown below · low E on the left
× Don’t play○ Open string1–4 Fingers● Root (ring)
Choose a string to hear its note.
String & finger reference
| String | Fret | Finger | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 · low E | Muted | — | — |
| 5 · A | 2 | 1 | B |
| 4 · D | Open | — | D |
| 3 · G | Open | — | G · root |
| 2 · B | Open | — | B |
| 1 · high E | 3 | 2 | G · root |
Common mistakes
- Starting the strum on the wrong bass string changes the inversion.
- A fingertip touches an open string and stops it ringing.
Coaching tips
- Start on the A string, keep D, G and B open, and add the 3rd-fret G on the high E.
- Play the bass note alone first, then strum the complete shape to hear the inversion.
Troubleshooting
The slash chord sounds like the plain chord
Check that the lowest note is B; start your strum on that bass string.
An open string is muted
Arch the fretting fingers and check the open strings one at a time before strumming.
Easier alternatives
- G
Progressions that use G/B
Frequently asked questions
What notes are in the G over B chord?
G over B contains G, B, D — the intervals R, 3, 5 from the root G.
Is G over B a beginner chord?
G over B is rated beginner. G major with B in the bass. This common first inversion makes the bass move by step from C to G/B to Am.
G over B: the slash chord sounds like the plain chord — what should I do?
Check that the lowest note is B; start your strum on that bass string.
G over B: an open string is muted — what should I do?
Arch the fretting fingers and check the open strings one at a time before strumming.