<<...G7+9 chords. Does this chord contain the same notes (G B D F A) as in a
G9 chord? Does the G9 contain the F. If they are the same, is one more
excepted or are they both ok?>>
No, they are not the same. Here's the scoop:
The G9 chords is as you spelled it: G, B, D, F, A (and yes, it does contain
the F. This is basically the dominant 7th chord with the added 9th.
The G7+9, however, is the BS&T (Blood, Sweat, & Tears) chord that you may
have read about in previous postings. Many of us who are "Baby Boomers" knew
that chord from BS&T's popular 60's tune "Spinning Wheel". If you know that
song, then you've heard the dominant chord with a #9, which is what the 7+9
signifies.
The G7+9, therefore, would be spelled: G, B, D, F, A#. Great sounding
chord, adding tension and sounding somewhat like it needs to resolve. Note
the B against the A#. We learned in school that the voicing needs to be
"just so", but current trends don't seem to abide by that "rule" (always
breaking rules...)
OK, here I go again...One more point:
You will see that chord written as above (G7+9), but a clearer way to notate
it would be G7(#9). Now there is no doubt as to it being a dominant 7th
chord with a raised 9th. Better to my way of thinking.
Hope this helps. You are sure to get more info and this, and probably a
better explanation. But that's my understanding of #9 chords.
You might also see the #9 chords written thusly:
G7(#9)
G7(+9)
G79+ (I HATE that one)
G +9 (ambiguous)
G7 (b3) (???)
G9#
Often the #9 will be written as an enharmonic (Bb in this case) for
convenience, or when the "blue note" context is indicated.
Thanks for your question.
Dr. Wayne Dyess
Lamar University
Beaumont, Texas
TxTbone@aol.com
PS - any of you North Texas "boys" on line?