Ab6sus4

General info

Full name

Ab 6sus4

Symbol

Ab6sus4

Root

Ab

Quality

6sus4

Chord notes

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key

VDominant (V)C# major

Stability / tension

Stable — can serve as major tonic

Most common resolutions

DbDb MajorEbEb MajorFmF Minor

Main resolution

Ab6sus4source

EbEb Major

Major chord Ab is a stable tonic. As tonic it doesn't require resolution, but in a progression context typically moves to IV or V.

Other resolutions

Ab6sus4source

Deceptive resolution

FmF Minor

As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).

Ab6sus4source

Modal resolution

GbGb Major

In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.

Ab6sus4source

Jazz reharmonization

Abmaj7Ab Major 7

In jazz, a major chord is enriched to maj7, 6/9, or add9 and can smoothly transition into a ii-V of another key (modulation).

Ab6sus4source

Functional resolution

EbEb Major

As the IV degree (subdominant), a major chord can resolve to V or directly to I (plagal cadence).

Features

Character

No 3rd, with a 4th and major 6th

Characteristic interval

4th instead of 3rd (4), Major 6th (6)

Description

The 4th replaces the 3rd, leaving chord quality undefined; the major 6th adds a consonant extension. A possible 4–3 motion turns the chord into a 6 chord.

Application

• Suspension before a 6 chord
• Modal sonorities
• Pedal bass

Voicing & structure

Harmony

Compatible scales

All chord tones are contained in these scales — use them for improvisation.