Chord Inversions

Learn how to play chords with different bass notes to create smoother progressions and better voice leading.

A chord inversion occurs when a note other than the root is played as the lowest (bass) note. This technique is essential for creating smooth voice leading between chords and adding variety to your playing.

Types of Inversions

Root Position
Root in Bass
The standard chord voicing with the root as the lowest note

C Major Example

C - E - G

Bass note: C (root)

Written as:

C

Standard chord symbol

1st Inversion
Third in Bass
The third of the chord is played as the lowest note

C Major Example

E - G - C

Bass note: E (3rd)

Written as:

C/E

"C over E" or "C slash E"

2nd Inversion
Fifth in Bass
The fifth of the chord is played as the lowest note

C Major Example

G - C - E

Bass note: G (5th)

Written as:

C/G

"C over G"

Practical Uses

Smooth Bass Lines

Create walking bass lines by using inversions to connect chords smoothly:

C → Am/C → F/C → G/B → C

The bass stays on C for the first three chords, then walks down to B

Voice Leading

Minimize movement between chord changes:

GC/GG stays in the bass
FG/FF stays in the bass

Common Inversion Progressions

Descending Bass Line

C → G/B → Am → Am/G → F

Creates a smooth C-B-A-G-F bass line

Gospel/R&B Progression

C → Em/B → Am → C/G → F

Common in soul and gospel music

Classical Cadence

F → G/F → C/E → F

Creates smooth voice leading in classical style

Tips for Using Inversions

  • •Use inversions to create smooth bass movement between chords
  • •First inversions (3rd in bass) tend to sound lighter and less stable
  • •Second inversions (5th in bass) can sound suspended and need resolution
  • •Not all chords work well in all inversions - experiment to find what sounds good
  • •Pay attention to the overall bass line your inversions create