F♯ minor chord on bass (F♯m)

Why it sounds like that

F♯ minor is built from the formula 1, ♭3, 5, with the ♭3 (A) giving it its minor quality. The interval from F♯ to A is a minor 3rd, and from F♯ to C♯ is a perfect 5th. Compared to F♯ major, the third is lowered by one semitone.

What goes wrong with F♯ minor?

• Letting the middle finger flatten onto the 1st string and mute it.
• Pressing the ring finger too far from the fret, causing the 3rd string to buzz.
• Striking the strings too hard and losing the clarity of the inner notes.

When to use it

F♯ minor is the vi chord in A major, appearing in progressions like A–E–F♯m–D (I–V–vi–IV). F♯ minor suits rock, metal, and pop lines where a sharp-key minor adds edge.

Changing to and from F♯ minor

• Move to F minor by sliding the shape down one fret to the 1st fret.
• Move to G minor by sliding the shape up one fret to the 3rd fret.

Which voicing to use

The 2nd-fret shape puts the root F♯ in the bass, giving a solid, centered sound. For a lighter feel, use the F♯min/C♯ inversion, which places the fifth C♯ in the bass and softens the chord's attack.