Power chords 🎸

A power chord is a simple and bold-sounding chord made up of just two or three notes: the root note, the perfect 5th, and optionally, the root note again an octave higher. For example, a C power chord includes the notes C–G–(C). It’s called a “power chord” because of its strong, clear, and aggressive tone, which cuts through especially well in genres like rock, punk, and metal.

Sound simplicity and strength

Power chords don’t include a 3rd, which means they’re neither major nor minor—just pure and ambiguous. This gives them a tight, focused, punchy sound. Because they avoid the more complex harmonics found in full chords, power chords sound clean and powerful, especially when played with distortion or overdrive.

Why Is Distortion "Magical" with Power Chords?

Power chords shine under distortion. Here’s why:

• Distortion amplifies overtones, adding texture and richness to sound. Full chords (like major or minor) have more complex overtones that can clash and sound muddy when distorted. Power chords, using just the perfect 5th, stay clear, stable, and consonant.

• This simple interval also creates strong resonance and sustain on the strings. With distortion, the chord feels bigger and more powerful, like it’s ringing out with energy.

Power Chords on Guitar Fretboard

The left images showed how we can play Power chords on Guitar.

The first image starts on the 6th thickest string. From E power chord, using the same shape and moving up the fretboard lets you play F, G etc….

The second image starts on the 5th string. From C power chord, using the same shape and moving up the fretboard lets you play D, E, etc….

Power chords are a staple of guitar-driven music for a reason. they’re simple, versatile, and sonically powerful. Whether you're learning your first riff or writing a stadium anthem, power chords are your best friend. Have fun and enjoy~ 🎸