Ab7sus2

General info

Full name

Ab 7sus2

Symbol

Ab7sus2

Root

Ab

Quality

7sus2

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

Unstable degrees

4Db

b7Gb

resolves down to the resolution tonic

Main resolution

Ab7sus2source

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

Ab7sus2source

Deceptive resolution

FmF Minor

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

Ab7sus2source

Modal resolution

GbGb Major

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

Ab7sus2source

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).

Ab7sus2source

Functional resolution

EbEb Major

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

Features

Character

Dominant, with a 2nd instead of the 3rd

Characteristic interval

2nd instead of 3rd (2), Minor 7th (b7)

Description

The 2nd replaces the 3rd, withholding major quality, while the minor 7th preserves dominant colour. The 2nd may rise to the 3rd of a dominant seventh chord.

Application

• 2–3 suspension over dominant
• Modal harmony
• Funk and modern jazz

Voicing & structure

Harmony

Compatible scales

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