Dave, Not to start an argument, but I tried the #9 and the b9 and I much prefer the b9 on the Eb7b9 chord just before the D7 chord in the key of Gm .
However, I've not heard the Joe Cocker version.

Hi,

Not sure why you would think that would start an argument. "?"

I suppose if we were debating the exact chord that is played in the Joe Cocker version in the video link I supplied, then we could argue as to that chord being a raised or lowered 9th. (BTW, I would win)

BUT... it really doesn't matter. The whole idea of playing music in the first place at least for me is to bring my own style and idea to a song. I have never liked trying to duplicate exactly what someone else has played on a recording. Sometimes there are signature licks that need to be played, but other than that I enjoy taking a song and making it my own so to speak. So if you like the sound of a lowered 9th then go for it. Actually the way I generally play that chord in that song is by playing the raised 9th and then use the lowered 9th as a passing tone back to the root chord. To me the sound of a lowered 9th suggests more of a standard bossa nova-ish turn-a-round where the raised 9th is more typical of a funky R&B tune which Unchain My Heart is considered. But then, that's just me. To each his own.

But back to the original question posted by Bill, it is an Eb7 to a D7#9.

Best Regards,

Dave


[This message has been edited by WDMcM (edited 08-26-2006).]