Eb7sus2

General info

Full name

Eb 7sus2

Symbol

Eb7sus2

Root

Eb

Quality

7sus2

Chord notes

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key

iiSubdominant (ii)C# major

Stability / tension

Stable — can serve as major tonic

Most common resolutions

AbAb MajorBbBb MajorCmC Minor

Unstable degrees

4Ab

b7Db

resolves down to the resolution tonic

Main resolution

Eb7sus2source

BbBb Major

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

Other resolutions

Eb7sus2source

Deceptive resolution

CmC Minor

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

Eb7sus2source

Modal resolution

DbDb Major

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

Eb7sus2source

Jazz reharmonization

Ebmaj7Eb 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).

Eb7sus2source

Functional resolution

BbBb 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.