D minor add 9 chord on ukulele (Dmadd9)

Why it sounds like that

D minor add 9 adds the 9th (E) to the D minor triad (D, F, A). The minor 3rd between D and F defines the minor quality, while the major 2nd from D to E adds a suspended color. Compare with D minor, which lacks the 9th.

What goes wrong with D minor add 9?

• Letting the index finger mute the C string.
• Not pressing the middle finger firmly enough on the C string, causing a buzz.
• Accidentally touching the E string with the ring finger, deadening it.

When to use it

D minor add 9 serves as the vi chord in F major, as in F–C–Dm–B♭ (I–V–vi–IV). Its airy, suspended quality suits folk and acoustic pop.

Changing to and from D minor add 9

• Move to D minor by lifting the middle and ring fingers, leaving the index on the G string and the E string open.
• Slide the shape down two frets to the 3rd fret to play C minor add 9.

Which voicing to use

The E inversion (2-5-0-5) places the 9th in the bass, giving a bright, open sound. The F inversion (7-5-5-7) puts the minor 3rd in the bass, creating a darker, more grounded voicing.