A♭ Augmented Seventh Chord

Chord Tones: A♭ Augmented Seventh Chord

Symbol: aug7, +7, 7♯5 — Formula: 1-3-♯5-♭7

Chord Notation

Roman numeral (e.g. I, IV, V) and Nashville Number notation are key-dependent. See Keys pages for chord function within specific keys.

Inversions

Harmonic Function

The A♭ augmented seventh chord commonly functions as the submediant (♭VI) in C minor or subdominant in E♭ major. Its harmonic role varies by key — in major keys it provides extended harmonic tension.

The augmented seventh chord adds a minor seventh to the augmented triad, combining the restlessness of an augmented fifth with the tension of a dominant seventh. Used for maximum harmonic tension. The A♭ Augmented Seventh Chord specifically contains 4 notes: A♭, C, E, G♭ (formula: 1-3-♯5-♭7). On piano, Ab-rooted chords use a combination of black and white keys that creates a relaxed hand shape, favored by Romantic-era composers for lyrical passages. Pop ballads, film scores, and neo-soul tracks often use Ab chords for their warm, enveloping quality — the key sits comfortably for many vocal ranges.

Common Progressions

The A♭ Augmented Seventh Chord frequently appears in these progression patterns (shown in Roman numeral notation relative to key):

• Vaug7-I
• Iaug7-IV

Songs Featuring the Augmented Seventh Chord

Well-known songs where the A♭ Augmented Seventh Chord — or this chord type — plays a prominent role:

• Whole Lotta Love – Led Zeppelin
• Come Together – Beatles (chord variant)
• Spanish Key – Miles Davis

Tuning Frequencies Across Temperaments

Frequencies shown at A=440 Hz. View full temperament data for any note.

Scales Containing the A♭ Augmented Seventh Chord

These scales include the A♭ Augmented Seventh Chord as a diatonic or characteristic chord: