scale
Fretboard diagram
D mixolydian scale — chords and intervals
The harmonized D mixolydian scale yields a chord family that combines major-key stability with a blues-inflected bVII chord. This flat seventh replaces the leading tone, creating a more relaxed, earthy harmonic feel. The chords of D mixolydian are D7, Em7, F#m7b5, GMaj7, Am7, Bm7, CMaj7. The I-bVII-IV progression drives classic rock anthems, while the I-bVII cadence provides a satisfying resolution without the pull of a dominant V. Mixolydian harmony is essential for blues-rock, Southern rock, and folk-influenced songwriting. Commonly used in Blues, Rock, Country, Folk, Funk. Notable players include Jimi Hendrix, The Allman Brothers, AC/DC, Stevie Ray Vaughan.
The D mixolydian scale has the following degrees: 1 2 3 4 5 6 ♭7.
Intervals: W-W-H-W-W-H-W.
Diatonic chords: D7, Em7, F#m7b5, GMaj7, Am7, Bm7, CMaj7.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | D7 |
| ii | Em7 |
| iii | F#m7b5 |
| IV | GMaj7 |
| V | Am7 |
| vi | Bm7 |
| vii° | CMaj7 |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (D7) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (Em7) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (F#m7b5) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (GMaj7) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (Am7) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (Bm7) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (CMaj7) 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 D mixolydian 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 D mixolydian scale on guitar.
mixolydian is the 5th mode of the Major scale. View D Major scale
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over dominant 7th chords (7, 9, 13). The primary scale for blues-rock soloing over non-resolving dominant chords.