B7sus2

General info

Full name

B 7sus2

Symbol

B7sus2

Root

B

Quality

7sus2

Chord notes

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key

viRelative tonic (vi)D major

Stability / tension

Stable — can serve as major tonic

Most common resolutions

EE MajorF#F# MajorG#mG# Minor

Unstable degrees

4E

b7A

resolves down to the resolution tonic

Main resolution

B7sus2source

F#F# Major

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

Other resolutions

B7sus2source

Deceptive resolution

G#mG# Minor

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

B7sus2source

Modal resolution

AA Major

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

B7sus2source

Jazz reharmonization

Bmaj7B 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).

B7sus2source

Functional resolution

F#F# 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.