A♭ minor add 9 chord on ukulele (A♭madd9)

Why it sounds like that

A♭ minor add 9 is built from the formula 1, ♭3, 5, 9. The major 2nd between A♭ and B♭ adds the ninth color over the minor triad. Compare it to A♭ minor, which omits the B♭.

What goes wrong with A♭ minor add 9?

• Letting the pinky collapse and deaden the E string.
• Pressing the ring finger onto the C string so it buzzes against the fret.
• Allowing the middle finger to drift and mute the G string.

When to use it

Use A♭ minor add 9 in place of A♭ minor for a shimmering, open minor sound in pop and ambient music.

Changing to and from A♭ minor add 9

• Sliding the shape down one fret to the 1st fret gives G minor add 9.
• From A♭ minor, add the pinky on the E string, fret 4.

Which voicing to use

Both voicings have E♭ in the bass, so the difference is register: the second voicing is higher and brighter. Choose the first for a warmer, lower sound and the second for a more cutting tone.