Power chords are common in rock, punk and metal because they stay clear under distortion. A full six-string chord can become crowded when heavily distorted, while a two- or three-note power chord remains focused.
They are often written with the number 5, such as E5 or A5. The number does not mean fifth fret; it refers to the fifth interval in the chord.
A power chord is built from a root and perfect fifth, often with the root doubled one octave higher. Because it normally has no third, it is neither major nor minor by itself.
The octave
A third finger may add the root one octave higher. This makes the chord sound fuller without changing its basic identity.
The fifth
The second note is seven semitones above the root. On guitar, it is commonly one string higher and two frets higher.
Movable shape
Because the shape does not rely on open strings, you can move it along the neck. The root note tells you the new chord name.
Why power chords stay clear with distortion
Distortion adds overtones and compression. Full chords with many close intervals can become crowded, while the wide root-and-fifth relationship remains focused and forceful.
The root note names the shape
The same fingering can move along the fretboard. Place its lowest root on G and it is a G power chord; move the root to A and the chord becomes A5. The shape stays the same while the pitch changes.
Work through the shape
- Play a two-note power chord, then add the octave and compare the weight.
- Move it from fret 3 to fret 5 and listen to the same shape become a different chord.
- Practise releasing pressure to mute between short rhythm hits.
- Add distortion only after the strings are cleanly muted.
- Move the shape along one string while naming the root at each position.
When notes buzz or disappear
Too many strings ring
Use the index finger to lightly touch unused strings and aim the pick carefully. Muting is part of the power-chord technique.
The chord sounds weak
Make sure both notes ring at equal volume. Place fingers near the fret wires and use a controlled, confident pick attack.
Unused strings make the chord sound messy
Let the index finger lightly touch neighbouring strings without pressing them to a fret. The picking hand can also avoid or mute strings outside the shape.