A simple, strong two-note chord that is the foundation of rock and punk guitar.
A power chord is a small, sturdy chord made of just two different notes — the root and the fifth above it (often with the root doubled an octave higher) — leaving out the third that would make it sound major or minor. This neutral quality makes power chords sound powerful and uncluttered, especially through distortion, which is why they are the cornerstone of rock, punk and metal rhythm guitar. They are also a beginner's best friend: the same simple two- or three-finger shape can be slid anywhere on the neck to play any power chord, requiring far less finger strength and precision than full barre chords while still sounding huge.
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