C lydian scale diatonic chords
C lydian scale seventh chords
scale
Fretboard diagram
C lydian scale — chords and intervals
Harmonizing the C lydian scale produces a luminous chord family where the II major chord replaces the typical ii minor. This bright alteration gives Lydian harmony its characteristic floating, unresolved quality. The diatonic chords of C lydian are CMaj7, D7, Em7, F#m7b5, GMaj7, Am7, Bm7. The I-II progression is the hallmark Lydian vamp, creating a sense of wonder without traditional tension. Film composers favor Lydian harmony for scenes of awe and discovery. The #iv diminished chord adds a touch of instability that keeps the brightness from becoming static. Commonly used in Film Scores, Progressive Rock, Fusion, Ambient, Dream Pop. Notable players include Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, John Williams, Hans Zimmer.
The C lydian scale has the following degrees: 1 2 3 ♯4 5 6 7.
Intervals: W-W-W-H-W-W-H.
Diatonic chords: CMaj7, D7, Em7, F#m7b5, GMaj7, Am7, Bm7.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | CMaj7 |
| ii | D7 |
| iii | Em7 |
| IV | F#m7b5 |
| V | GMaj7 |
| vi | Am7 |
| vii° | Bm7 |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (CMaj7) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (D7) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (Em7) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (F#m7b5) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (GMaj7) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (Am7) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (Bm7) is the diminished — the most tense, rarely used alone, usually leading to the I.
This page focuses on the harmonic content — the chords built from each degree of the C lydian scale. For fretboard patterns and fingering guides, see the scale page.
Use the interactive harmonizer above to explore triads, seventh chords, and chord voicings for composing with the C lydian scale on guitar.
lydian is the 4th mode of the Major scale. View C Major scale
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over Maj7#11, Maj9 chords. Ideal for non-resolving major passages. Avoid when the music needs to feel grounded or resolved.