La# Super Mario Bros Cadence
bVI – bVII – I progression in La# major
La# Super Mario Bros Cadence — bVI – bVII – I
The Mario Cadence (bVI–bVII–I) is the iconic chord progression from the Super Mario Bros. video game's level-complete fanfare, composed by Koji Kondo. In A#, the progression is F# – G# – A#. It borrows two chords (bVI and bVII) from the parallel minor before resolving triumphantly to the major I chord. Minor Pentatonic suits the borrowed chords; Mixolydian bridges them toward the tonic. The Minor Blues scale adds grit if the context calls for it. With seventh voicings (F#Maj7 – G#7 – A#Maj7), the cinematic lift becomes weightier and more dramatic.
Playing in La# major
A# (Bb) major requires barre chords rooted at fret 1 on the A string or fret 6 on the E string. Despite the barre demands, it is a common key in funk, New Orleans R&B, and brass band music. The open D string can ring as the major third for added color. A# is a intermediate-level key on guitar because the open D string is the major 3rd of Bb, adding a bright color if allowed to ring. Expect to rely on barre chords throughout, which builds hand strength and unlocks the entire fretboard.
Voice Leading
The bass line moves through F# to G# (ascending whole step), G# to A# (ascending whole step). The predominantly stepwise bass motion creates smooth, connected voice leading. When the progression loops, the bass returns from A# to F# by major third.
Capo Transposition
To play in A# using familiar open chords: capo 1 with open A shapes; capo 3 with open G shapes; capo 6 with open E shapes. Choose the capo position that gives you the voicings you prefer — lower capo positions produce a fuller sound, while higher positions create a brighter, mandolin-like timbre.
Scales for Soloing
A# major pentatonic works because every note is either a chord tone or a safe passing tone — there are no avoid notes. For soloing, this means you can play freely without clashing. Over dominant seventh chords, A# Mixolydian adds the flat seventh for an authentic blues-rock edge.
Strumming Pattern
Use D-DU-UDU at 100-120 BPM for a standard pop strum. Accent beats 2 and 4 for a backbeat feel. Vary dynamics between verse (lighter) and chorus (stronger) to build energy.