The Movable Power Chord (5) Shape for Guitar

The Formula of the Chord

Power chords, often referred to as “5” chords, are a staple in rock, punk, and metal music. These chords are characterised by their strong and straightforward sound. Unlike traditional major or minor chords, power chords are neither major nor minor because they omit the third interval (3). Instead, they consist only of the root (R) and the perfect fifth (5). This simplicity gives power chords their powerful and versatile sound.

For the purpose of this lesson, we’ll focus on movable power chords using the E, A, and D strings. The formula for a power chord is:

• Root (R): The fundamental note from which the chord is built.
• Perfect Fifth (5): The interval five steps above the root.
• Octave (R): The same note as the root, but one octave higher.

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

• 6th string (E): Root (R)
• 5th string (A): Perfect Fifth (5)
• 4th string (D): Octave (R)

How to Play the Chord

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

1. Root Note Positioning: Start by identifying the root note on the 6th string (E string). The fret you place your index finger on will determine the name of the power chord. For example, placing your index finger on the 3rd fret of the E string gives you a G power chord (G5).
2. Index Finger: Place your index finger on the fret of the root note on the 6th string. For instance, to play a G5 power chord, place your index finger on the 3rd fret of the E string.
3. Ring Finger: Place your ring finger on the fret two frets higher than the root note on the 5th string (A string). For a G5 power chord, place your ring finger on the 5th fret of the A string.
4. Little Finger: Place your little finger on the fret two frets higher than the root note on the 4th string (D string). For a G5 power chord, place your pinky finger on the 5th fret of the D string.

Make sure 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.

Chord TAB Visualisation

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

Tablature:

e|---x---| (Muted)
B|---x---| (Muted)
G|---x---| (Muted)
D|---5---| (Little Finger)
A|---5---| (Ring Finger)
E|---3---| (Index Finger)

To move this shape to another root note, simply slide your fingers up or down the fretboard while maintaining the same finger positioning. For example, to play an A5 power chord, move your index finger to the 5th fret of the E string, and place your ring and pinky fingers accordingly on the 7th fret of the A and D strings, respectively.

By following these instructions, you should be able to play the movable power chord shape effectively, giving you the ability to play power chords in any key by simply shifting the chord shape up and down the neck of the guitar.