Understanding the Chord Containing E - G - B - F

In music theory, the chord containing the notes E, G, B, and F is a unique and often discussed interesting case. Let's break down this chord to see what it is and why it's often referred to as the "Poopy Chord."

Notes Breakdown

The chord containing the notes E G B and F can be identified as an E7 chord or an E dominant seventh. In its third inversion, the notes can be arranged as follows:

E root G major third B perfect fifth F minor seventh

In this case, the F is the lowest note, making it the third inversion of the E7 chord. It can also be described as F major 7 (Fmaj7) with E as the bass note, but the dominant seventh context is more common.

Variations and Confusion

It's important to note that this chord can be subject to various interpretations and might appear in different contexts. Some refer to it as the "Poopy Chord," which is a playful and somewhat derogatory term.

Another variation discussed is the E add b9. This chord lacks the dominant seventh, making it a less common dominant chord (E7b9). The individual user describes the use of this chord as having a "nice eerie feeling" when played with a closed voicing as Fdim/E.

Some also mention that this chord can be identified as Eb9 (E flat dominant ninth). However, it should be noted that this chord is different from the E flat dominant ninth (Eb9). This chord is an E major triad (E G B) with a minor ninth (F), and it can be found in A harmonic minor.

Musical Interpretation

Most often, chords in music do not contain all the complete notes of a chord. If you see just these four notes without the D note, it might be assumed to be an E7b9 (EGBDF).

In a musical context, the chord can also be interpreted as E sus9 (Esus9). This would make it a very dissonant chord when held for some duration, but the natural F could be part of a chromatic passing tone melody when played more dynamically.

Clarification and Context

To better understand this chord, it's crucial to clarify two points:

From where did you see this chord mentioned? What is the exact voicing or the actual order of the notes in the chord, starting with the bottom note in the bass clef?

Individuals with diverse musical backgrounds, even those who are not formally trained, offer valuable insights. One user experimented with the chord on a guitar and noted it sounded "horrible" with a particular voicing. This emphasizes the importance of context and voicing in deciding how a chord sounds and functions within a piece of music.

The chord E7b9 (or variations like E add b9 or Eb9) offers a rich palette of unique sounds in music, adding complexity and depth to compositions. Its dissonant and eerie nature makes it a popular choice for creating dramatic and unsettling musical moments.

Understanding and experimenting with chords like this one can enhance one's musical vocabulary and creativity, making it a valuable resource for musicians of all levels.