Fmaj7

Fmaj7 is a major seventh chord built on the note F. It consists of the notes F, A, C, and E. The interval structure is root, major third, perfect fifth, and major seventh. This chord is diatonic to the F major scale and functions as the Imaj7 in F major, while in other keys it often appears as a IVmaj7 (for example, in C major the IV is F and its seventh chord is Fmaj7). The major seventh interval above the root gives the chord a softer, more contemplative color than a plain major triad.

Inversions and voicings: Fmaj7 can be played in root position or in any inversion. The first inversion is A-C-E-F, the second is C-E-F-A, and the third is E-F-A-C. On piano or guitar, players typically use four-note voicings in close or open position, and may employ common jazz voicings such as drop-2 or drop-3 to fit a bass line or texture.

Usage and function: Fmaj7 is widely used in jazz, pop, and other styles for its smooth, stable color. In major-key harmony, it often appears as IVmaj7 moving to I, for example Fmaj7 to C major, or as a tonic-colored Imaj7 in F major. It can also serve as a coloristic substitute for a plain F major chord and is valued for its voice-leading advantages in longer progressions, including turnarounds and ii–V–I sequences that pass through the IV region.