Play the sus4 chord on ukulele

The sus4 chord (suspended 4) is a triad where the third is replaced by a perfect fourth. This substitution creates a harmonic suspension that naturally calls for resolution.

Chord composition

IIVV
RootPerfect fourthPerfect fifth
057

Formula 1 - 4 - 5

Theory

The sus4 chord replaces the third with a perfect fourth (5 semitones). C sus4 = C-F-G, D sus4 = D-G-A. The fourth creates stronger tension than in the sus2, typically resolving to a major chord by descending a semitone. It's the most common suspended chord.

Play the sus4 chord on the ukulele

Example of Sus4 chord position on ukulele

Styles

Rock Pop Folk Blues Country

Sus4 chord construction

Formula 1 - 4 - 5: third replaced by perfect fourth. Example Csus4: C - F - G. Tension seeking resolution to major.

How to play

Classic rock, gospel. Characteristic sus4 → major resolution (Csus4 → C). Suspended cadences. Powerful open positions.

Learning

Sus4 → major resolutions (The Who, Led Zeppelin). Gospel: suspended cadences. Rock: harmonic power.