The A Power Chord (5) Shape for Guitar

The Formula of the Chord

Power chords, also known as “5” chords, are essential in many genres of music, especially rock, punk, and metal. These chords are known for their strong and straightforward sound. Unlike major or minor chords, power chords do not include the third interval, which gives them a neutral tonality. The formula for a power chord includes the root (R) and the perfect fifth (5), and often includes the octave (R), which is the same note as the root but one octave higher.

For the A power chord (A5), the intervals and notes involved are:

• Root (R): A
• Perfect Fifth (5): E
• Octave (R): A

In the A power chord using the E, A, and D strings, the voicing typically includes:

• 6th string (E): A (R)
• 5th string (A): E (5)
• 4th string (D): A (R)

How to Play the Chord

To play the A power chord (A5) using the E, A, and D strings, follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Root Note Positioning: Start by identifying the root note A on the 6th string (E string). The A note is located on the 5th fret of the E string.
2. Index Finger: Place your index finger on the 5th fret of the 6th string (E string). This will produce the note A (R).
3. Ring Finger: Place your ring finger on the 7th fret of the 5th string (A string). This will produce the note E (5).
4. Little Finger: Place your little finger on the 7th fret of the 4th string (D string). This will produce the note A (R).

Ensure your fingers are pressing down firmly just behind the frets to get a clear sound. The remaining strings (3rd, 2nd, and 1st) should be muted by lightly touching them with your index finger or by using your picking hand to avoid unwanted noise.

When strumming, only play the 6th, 5th, and 4th strings. Do not play the 3rd, 2nd, and 1st strings as they are not part of the chord voicing.

Chord Visualisation

Below is the tablature to help you visualise the A power chord (A5) shape using the E, A, and D strings:

Tablature:

e|---x---| (Muted)
B|---x---| (Muted)
G|---x---| (Muted)
D|---7---| (Little Finger)
A|---7---| (Ring Finger)
E|---5---| (Index Finger)

To play this chord, press down on the indicated frets with the specified fingers, ensuring each note rings out clearly while the non-played strings remain muted.

By mastering this chord shape, you can move it up and down the fretboard to play power chords in different keys. For instance, moving the shape to the 3rd fret of the E string will give you a G5 chord, and moving it to the 7th fret will give you a B5 chord. This movable shape is fundamental in creating powerful, driving rhythms in many styles of music