Chord Information
Learn how to play Asus4 on piano
Notes in Chord
Intervals
Inversion
Notes (bottom to top): A4 - D5 - E5
Right Hand Fingering
3=middle, 4=ring, 5=pinky
Interactive Piano
Click the highlighted keys to play the Asus4 chord
About the Asus4 Chord
The Asus4 chord is one of acoustic music's most essential sounds—a warm, yearning tension that resolves to A major. Built from A-D-E, this suspended chord appears throughout folk, rock, and pop. The alternation Asus4-A has become a signature gesture for acoustic guitarists and pianists alike.
What makes Asus4 particularly beloved is its accessibility and expressiveness. Three white keys create a sound that feels both familiar and emotionally charged. The resolution from Asus4 to A major (moving D down to C#) provides satisfying release.
On piano, Asus4's all-white-key voicing sits naturally under the hand. The chord voice-leads smoothly to A major, A minor, and surrounding harmonies.
Music Theory & Usage
Asus4 functions as tension before A major, appearing constantly in D major and E major progressions. In D major, Asus4 serves as suspended dominant. The gesture Asus4-A is fundamental to acoustic music.
The chord appears throughout singer-songwriter material, folk-rock, and acoustic pop, where its warm tension suits intimate expression.
Famous Songs Using Asus4
Hear how professional musicians use the Asus4 chord in these well-known songs:
“More Than Words”
by Extreme
Features Asus4-A prominently in its acoustic ballad
“Wish You Were Here”
by Pink Floyd
Contains Asus4 in its wistful progression
“Wonderwall”
by Oasis
Uses sus4 chords throughout
“Patience”
by Guns N' Roses
Features Asus4 in its acoustic sections
How to Play Asus4 on Piano
- Place your thumb on A.
- Place your middle finger on D.
- Place your pinky finger on E.
- Press all keys simultaneously to hear the Asus4 chord.
Recommended fingering: 1-3-5 (right hand)
Asus4 Chord Inversions
The Asus4 chord can be played in different inversions:
Root Position
A - D - E (bass note: A)
First Inversion
D - E - A (bass note: D)
Second Inversion
E - A - D (bass note: E)
Common Chord Progressions Using Asus4
Suspended Resolution
Common chord progression
Practice Tips for Asus4
- Start slowly and focus on pressing all keys simultaneously for a clean sound.
- Practice transitioning between Asus4 and other common chords to build muscle memory.
- Feel the tension in the suspended note and practice resolving it.
- Use suspended chords to create anticipation before resolving to major or minor chords.
Frequently Asked Questions about Asus4
What notes are in Asus4?
Asus4 contains A (root), D (perfect 4th), and E (perfect 5th). All white keys in a natural position.
Why is Asus4 so popular in acoustic music?
Asus4 is easy to play on both guitar and piano, creates warm tension that suits emotional lyrics, and sits in common keys (D, E, A major). Its accessibility makes it a go-to choice.
How do I use Asus4 effectively?
Alternate Asus4-A for movement. Use before A in cadences for emphasis. Try Asus4-Asus2-A for extended movement. Arpeggiate for flowing, intimate effect.
What's the difference between Asus4 and Asus2?
Asus4 (A-D-E) has the fourth; Asus2 (A-B-E) has the second. Asus4 feels tense and directional; Asus2 feels open and ambiguous. They create different emotional effects.