Do# Super Mario Bros Cadence
bVI – bVII – I progression in Do# major
Do# 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 C#, the progression is A – B – C#. 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 (AMaj7 – B7 – C#Maj7), the cinematic lift becomes weightier and more dramatic.
Playing in Do# major
C# major (or Db) sits in barre chord territory across the fretboard. Every chord demands precise barring, but the payoff is a bright, crystalline sound a half step above C that cuts through a band mix. C# is a intermediate-advanced-level key on guitar because no open strings fall within the key naturally, so every chord requires full barre technique. Expect to rely on barre chords throughout, which builds hand strength and unlocks the entire fretboard.
Voice Leading
The bass line moves through A to B (ascending whole step), B to C# (ascending whole step). The predominantly stepwise bass motion creates smooth, connected voice leading. When the progression loops, the bass returns from C# to A by major third.
Capo Transposition
To play in C# using familiar open chords: capo 1 with open C shapes; capo 4 with open A shapes; capo 6 with open G 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
C# 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, C# 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.