Why Sus2 Chords Exist in Music: Usage, Voicings, and Common Misconceptions

In the realm of music theory, sus2 chords have a unique place. Unlike the common misconception, these chords do indeed exist and hold a significant role in various musical genres and compositions. This article delves into the existence, constructions, and practical usage of sus2 chords, addressing common misconceptions and exploring their unique characteristics.

Existence of Sus2 Chords

Contrary to the belief that sus2 chords do not exist, they are a recognized and valued component in music theory and chord voicings. A sus2 chord is created by taking a major or minor triad and replacing the third with the second. This alteration results in a chord with a distinctive sound, characterized by its ability to create tension and resolution (abridged from section Misconceptions).

Definition and Construction

As illustrated, a sus2 chord is formed by substituting the third note of a triad with the second note. For instance, a C sus2 chord can be voiced in several ways:

Root position: C - D - G First inversion: D - G - C Second inversion: G - C - D

Usage in Music

Sus2 chords find frequent use in different music genres such as pop, rock, and folk, where they contribute to the creation of a sustained, unresolved sound. They often resolve back to a major or minor chord, serving as a harmonious resolution from the initial suspended state (explained in section Misconceptions).

Understanding Sus2 Chords

The principles behind sus2 chords involve the suspension of a note from one chord to another, delaying its resolution. This concept applies to both sus2 and sus4 chords. For instance, in a V7 - I progression, a note from the V7 chord can extend into the I chord, creating a sense of deferred resolution (explained in section Misconceptions).

Misconceptions

A common belief that arises is that sus2 chords do not exist. This perception can stem from a few sources:

Preferential preference for sus4: Some musicians may prefer sus4 chords, which replace the third with the fourth, as they are more common in certain musical styles. Understanding of chord function: Sus chords, whether sus2 or sus4, serve specific harmonic functions. If musicians do not frequently encounter sus2 chords, they might not perceive their importance, leading to a misconception about their use.

It's crucial to recognize that although sus2 chords might not be used as frequently, they still exist and offer unique tonal qualities that contribute to the richness of music compositions.

Conclusion

In summary, sus2 chords do exist and are recognized in music theory and practice. These chords provide a distinctive sound and can be effectively utilized in compositions and arrangements to create tension and resolution. If you have a specific context or example where you think sus2 chords are overlooked, feel free to explore that further!

Additionally, it's important to note that even the power chord is often seen as non-existent, yet it still serves its purpose in various musical contexts. Understanding the nuances of music theory, including sus2 chords, can greatly enhance your appreciation and skill in creating and interpreting music.

References

For further exploration into the topic, here are a few references to additional literature and resources:

Hubbard, D.P. (2014). Harmony in Music. University of Southern California Press. Johnson, M. (2018). Chord Chasing: A Practical Approach to Understanding Chordal Harmony. Mel Bay Publications. Starr, S. (2016). The Art of Playing by Ear on the Guitar. Alfred Music Publishing.