F#6sus4

F# 6sus4

Octaves

Musical context

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

Theory

General info

Full name
F# 6sus4
Symbol
F#6sus4
Root
F#
Quality
6sus4

Chord notes

1F#root
4Bperfect 4th
5C#perfect 5th
6D#major 6th

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key
iiSubdominant (ii)E major
Stability / tension
Stable — can serve as major tonic
Most common resolutions
Main resolution
F#6sus4source
C#C# Major
Major chord F# is a stable tonic. As tonic it doesn't require resolution, but in a progression context typically moves to IV or V.
Other resolutions
F#6sus4source
Deceptive resolution
D#mD# Minor
As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).
F#6sus4source
Modal resolution
EE Major
In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.
F#6sus4source
Jazz reharmonization
F#maj7F# 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).
F#6sus4source
Functional resolution
C#C# Major
As the IV degree (subdominant), a major chord can resolve to V or directly to I (plagal cadence).

Features

Character
No 3rd, with a 4th and major 6th
Characteristic interval
4th instead of 3rd (4), Major 6th (6)
Description
The 4th replaces the 3rd, leaving chord quality undefined; the major 6th adds a consonant extension. A possible 4–3 motion turns the chord into a 6 chord.
Application
  • Suspension before a 6 chord
  • Modal sonorities
  • Pedal bass

Voicing & structure

Root position

v1F#(F#4)Bass
root
v2B(B4)P4from F#
v3C#(C#5)M2from B
v4D#(D#5)M2from C#

Harmony

Compatible scales

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

This chord on guitar 🎸

See how F#6sus4 looks on guitar.

Explore

Circle of fifths

Highlighted major keys contain this chord among their diatonic harmonies.

CAmGEmDBmAF#mEC#mBG#mF#D#mDbBbmAbFmEbCmBbGmFDmF#major
Relative key
Dominant
Subdominant
Key signature
6 sharps (F#, C#, G#, D#, A#, E#)

Practice

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Frequently Asked Questions