C#maj7

Q: What notes are in the C#maj7 chord?

The C#maj7 chord (C# Major 7) contains: C#, E#, G#, B#. Its interval structure is shown above in the Theory section.

Q: How do I build C#maj7 on the keyboard?

Take the root and add the remaining chord tones following the interval formula. The highlight shows chord content, while the inversion control changes which chord tone is in the bass.

Q: Which keys is C#maj7 found in?

The chord acts as a diatonic degree in several keys — they are marked on the circle of fifths in the "Harmonic context" block.

Q: What can I substitute for C#maj7?

A substitution depends on harmonic function and voice leading, not only on shared tones. Computed options appear in the "Substitutions" block and should be checked in context.

C# Major 7

Octaves

Musical context

ChordC# majorTriad

ChordC#maj7C# Major 7

ArpeggioC# majorBroken triad

ScaleC# major7 notes

KeyC# majorMajor key

ProgressionPop axisSequence

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

Theory

General info

Full name: C# Major 7
Symbol: C#maj7
Root: C#
Quality: Major 7

Chord notes

1C#root

3E#major 3rd

5G#perfect 5th

7B#major 7th

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key: ITonic (I)C# major
Stability / tension: Stable — can serve as major tonic
Most common resolutions: F#F# Major G#G# Major A#mA# Minor
Unstable degrees: 7C
1C#
resolves up to the root
Main resolution: C#maj7source
G#G# Major
Major chord C# is a stable tonic. As tonic it doesn't require resolution, but in a progression context typically moves to IV or V.
Other resolutions: C#maj7source
Deceptive resolution
A#mA# Minor
As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).
C#maj7source
Modal resolution
BB Major
In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.
C#maj7source
Jazz reharmonization
C#maj7C# 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).
C#maj7source
Functional resolution
G#G# Major
As the IV degree (subdominant), a major chord can resolve to V or directly to I (plagal cadence).

Substitutions

Parallel: C#m7C# Minor 7
Relative: Bbm7Bb Minor 7

Features

Character: Major, with major-7th tension
Characteristic interval: Major 7th (M7)
Description: The major 7th lies a semitone below the octave and creates dissonance without forming a dominant tritone.
Application: I and IV in jazz/pop
Neo-soul, romantic ballads
Light pop