F Suspended 4th Chord

Chord Tones: F 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 F sus4 chord commonly functions as the subdominant (IV) in C major — plagal cadence endpoint. 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. The F Suspended 4th Chord specifically contains 3 notes: F, B♭, C (formula: 1-4-5). On guitar, the F barre chord is famously one of the first challenging shapes beginners encounter, but its tight voicing produces a clear, focused sound. Classical, jazz, and gospel music frequently feature F-rooted chords, and brass-heavy arrangements in concert band naturally gravitate to keys that include F as a primary chord.

Common Progressions

The F 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 F 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 F Suspended 4th Chord

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