You already know the basic power chord shape. But there’s a trick that can make your power chords sound twice as big – and it’s easier than you might think.
It’s called an inversion. Instead of playing just the root and the fifth, you add a low bass note underneath. The result is a fatter, growlier sound that you’ve heard in countless classic rock songs.
Watch: Power Chord Inversions Explained
First, the Standard Power Chord
Quick refresher: a power chord uses two notes – the root and the fifth. Put your first finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string (that’s G), and your third finger on the 5th fret of the A string (that’s D). You’re playing a G5.
Technically, this isn’t a chord at all – it’s an interval. A real chord needs three different notes. But don’t let that stop you from using them everywhere. They work.
Adding the Octave
Here’s your first upgrade: add your pinky on the 5th fret of the D string. Now you’ve got G, D, and another G (an octave higher).
It’s still technically a G5 – you haven’t added a third different note. But that extra octave fills out the sound nicely. You can pick through it or strum it.
This shape is totally moveable. Slide it up two frets and you’ve got A5. Slide it to the 8th fret and you’ve got C5.
The Slash Chord (Inversion)
Now for the real secret. Instead of building up from the root, what if you added a bass note below your power chord?
Take your C5 on the A string – that’s the 3rd fret (C) and 5th fret (G). Now add a low G on the 6th string, 3rd fret.
You’re still playing a C power chord, but with a G bass note underneath. Musicians write this as C5/G – the slash tells you what the bass note is.
Even though G is now the lowest note, the chord is still based on C. That low G just adds depth and growl.
Wind Cries Mary: A Classic Example
Jimi Hendrix used this exact technique in the intro to “Wind Cries Mary.” He plays a chromatic run using inverted power chords:
He’s moving through D, D#, and E – but using the fifth as the bass note each time. That low note gives it that signature sound you can’t get any other way.
Why This Works
The inverted fifth creates a different texture. Your root chord stays the same, but that low bass note adds weight to the bottom end. It’s like having a bass player doubling your part.
Once you understand how inversions relate to the chord, you can use them to create all kinds of variations. Try it with your standard chord progressions and hear the difference.
Next up: learn how inverted fourths work – the technique behind Smoke on the Water.