The ukulele’s cheerful and versatile sound may not be the first instrument that comes to mind when thinking about jazz music. However, with the right chord voicings and techniques, you can bring the rich and sophisticated harmonies of jazz to your ukulele playing. Here are some essential ukulele chords for jazz songs to help you explore this genre:
- Major 7th Chords: Major 7th chords are a staple in jazz music and can add a jazzy and sophisticated sound to your ukulele playing. Common major 7th chords include:
- Cmaj7: 0002
- Fmaj7: 5500
- Gmaj7: 0232
Experiment with different inversions and variations of major 7th chords to create a smooth and rich jazz sound on your ukulele.
- Dominant 7th Chords: Dominant 7th chords provide tension and resolution in jazz music. They are commonly used in turnaround progressions and provide a bluesy and soulful sound. Common dominant 7th chords include:
- C7: 0001
- F7: 2313
- G7: 0212
Combine these dominant 7th chords with other jazz chords to create interesting progressions and add a touch of authenticity to your jazz ukulele playing.
- Minor 7th Chords: Minor 7th chords are often used in jazz ballads and melancholic jazz tunes. They bring a sense of sophistication and emotion to your playing. Common minor 7th chords include:
- Am7: 0000
- Dm7: 2213
- Em7: 0402
Use minor 7th chords to create a mellow and introspective atmosphere in your jazz ukulele repertoire.
- Diminished 7th Chords: Diminished 7th chords are known for their tense and ambiguous sound. They are commonly used as passing chords or for creating chromatic movements in jazz compositions. A common diminished 7th chord on the ukulele is:
- Bdim7: 2323
Explore using diminished 7th chords as a way to add color and tension to your jazz chord progressions.
- Extended Chords: Jazz often employs extended chords to add complexity and richness to the harmony. Experiment with chords such as 9th, 11th, and 13th chords to create a more sophisticated jazz sound on your ukulele. For example:
- C9: 0201
- F11: 5555
- G13: 0213
Remember to focus on proper finger placement and practice smooth transitions between chords to maintain a fluid and polished sound.
As you delve into jazz ukulele playing, it’s essential to develop a good understanding of music theory and chord voicings. Explore jazz standards and study the chord progressions used in jazz compositions. Listen to recordings of jazz artists to get a feel for the authentic jazz sound. With practice and dedication, you can bring the magic of jazz to your ukulele playing, impressing audiences with your sophisticated and swinging sound.
