A#7sus2

A# 7sus2

Octaves

Musical context

How the chord relates to the scale, mode, key and progression.

Theory

General info

Full name
A# 7sus2
Symbol
A#7sus2
Root
A#
Quality
7sus2

Chord notes

1A#root
2B#major 2nd
5E#perfect 5th
b7G#minor 7th

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key
viRelative tonic (vi)C# major
Stability / tension
Stable — can serve as major tonic
Most common resolutions
Unstable degrees
4D#
b7G#
resolves down to the resolution tonic
Main resolution
A#7sus2source
FF Major
Major chord A# is a stable tonic. As tonic it doesn't require resolution, but in a progression context typically moves to IV or V.
Other resolutions
A#7sus2source
Deceptive resolution
GmG Minor
As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).
A#7sus2source
Modal resolution
G#G# Major
In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.
A#7sus2source
Jazz reharmonization
A#maj7A# 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).
A#7sus2source
Functional resolution
FF 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

Root position

v1A#(A#4)Bass
root
v2B#(B#5)M2from A#
v3E#(E#5)P4from B#
v4G#(G#5)m3from E#

Harmony

Compatible scales

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

This chord on guitar 🎸

See how A#7sus2 looks on guitar.

Explore

Circle of fifths

Highlighted major keys contain this chord among their diatonic harmonies.

CAmGEmDBmAF#mEC#mBG#mF#D#mDbBbmAbFmEbCmBbGmFDmBbmajor
Relative key
Dominant
Subdominant
Key signature
2 flats (Bb, Eb)

Practice

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Frequently Asked Questions