C Suspended 4th Chord

Chord Tones: C Suspended 4th Chord

Symbol: sus4, sus — Formula: 1-4-5

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 C sus4 chord commonly functions as the tonic (I) in C major/minor. Its harmonic role varies by key — in major keys it provides stable harmonic grounding.

The sus4 chord replaces the third with a perfect fourth, creating tension that traditionally resolves down to the major third. It creates anticipation and is common before dominant chords.

Common Progressions

The C Suspended 4th Chord frequently appears in these progression patterns (shown in Roman numeral notation relative to key):

• Vsus4-V-I
• Isus4-I

Songs Featuring the Suspended 4th Chord

Well-known songs where the C Suspended 4th Chord — or this chord type — plays a prominent role:

• Scarborough Fair – Simon & Garfunkel
• The Seeker – The Who
• Born on the Bayou – CCR

Tuning Frequencies Across Temperaments

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

Scales Containing the C Suspended 4th Chord

These scales include the C Suspended 4th Chord as a diatonic or characteristic chord: