Gsus4

Q: What notes are in the Gsus4 chord?

The Gsus4 chord (G Sus4) contains: G, C, D. Its interval structure is shown above in the Theory section.

Q: How do I build Gsus4 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 Gsus4 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 Gsus4?

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.

G Sus4

Octaves

Musical context

ChordGsus4G Sus4

ArpeggioG majorBroken triad

ScaleG major7 notes

KeyG majorMajor key

ProgressionPop axisSequence

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

Theory

General info

Full name: G Sus4
Symbol: Gsus4
Root: G
Quality: Sus4

Chord notes

1Groot

4Cperfect 4th

5Dperfect 5th

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key: VDominant (V)C major
Stability / tension: Moderate tension — suspension awaits resolution
Most common resolutions: GG Major GmG Minor
Unstable degrees: 3B
4C
resolves down to the 3rd
Main resolution: Gsus4source
GG Major
The suspended 4th in Gsus4 pulls down to the 3rd, resolving to G major or minor.
Other resolutions: Gsus4source
Deceptive resolution
GmG Minor
Gsus4 can resolve to minor instead of major — the 4th drops to the minor 3rd.
Gsus4source
No resolution needed
In modal music, a sus chord may remain an independent sonority without 4–3 or 2–3 motion; with no 3rd, it defines neither major nor minor quality.
Gsus4source
Jazz reharmonization
G7sus4G 7sus4
In jazz, 7sus4 may retain its dominant bass and minor 7th without immediately resolving the 4th to the 3rd; it may also move to another sus chord.
Gsus4source
Functional resolution
CC Major
A sus chord can move up a 4th or down a step, functioning as a suspension from degrees other than the tonic.

Features

Character: No 3rd, with 4th-degree tension
Characteristic interval: Fourth instead of 3rd (4)
Description: The 4th replaces the 3rd, so the chord defines neither major nor minor quality. In a typical sus4 resolution, the 4th descends to the 3rd.
Application: Pop and rock (sus4 → major)
Pause before resolution
Building tension