![5 Simple Alternate Chord Voicings for Open Positions]](https://backingtracksfullcollection.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/5-Simple-Alternate-Chord-Voicings-for-Open-Positions-758x406.jpg "5 Simple Alternate Chord Voicings for Open Positions] 1")
Sometimes open-position chords are just the job for filling out an accompaniment or providing the sole backing for a singer.
However, what if there could be a few extra touches to elevate your accompaniment, without sounding like you’d swallowed a jazz chordbook for breakfast?
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As we’re playing in open position, the open strings add a nice jangle, which we’re looking to maximise. Another feature is the G at the 3rd fret of the first string. This remains constant through all of the examples, giving a nice ‘shine’ in whatever order you play these chords.
Example 1. C
A regular C chord, but adding G on the first string really emphasises the upper part of the chord, particularly effective for asserting the guitar’s place in a band mix.
As well as making this a more ‘jangly’ chord, the G on top carries over to the other examples, offering a sense of continuity.
Example 2. G
This is the first of two possibilities for the G (V) chord. There’s a reason why this is played with two fingers, omitting the fifth string, but you’ll need to look at Example 3 to see what that reason is… In the meantime, this is one of the best open chords on the fretboard.
Example 3. C/G
This C/G could also be called G6sus4 – both names are technically correct. It’s meant to be added as a momentary embellishment, rather than a replacement for Example 2.
To hear this voicing in the wild, check out the intros to the Eagles’ Take It Easy or Bowie’s John, I’m Only Dancing.
Example 4. Am7
This Am7 continues the same jangly theme. It’s a great substitute for a regular Am chord, or can combine well if there’s another guitar playing Am.
Check out James Honeyman-Scott’s distinctive playing on The Pretenders’ Talk of the Town to hear this in action, complete with just the right amount of overdrive and chorus.
Example 5. Fsus2
This Fsus2 further continues the jangly theme, with the G on the first string, plus another from the open third string.
The F (Root) on the sixth string is optional. If you can get your fretting-hand thumb to oblige, great! Otherwise, it can still sound pretty full using the C on the fifth string as the lowest note.
