D# Lydian Augmented Guitar Scale — DADGAD
Guitar scale in DADGAD tuning — fretboard diagram
D# Lydian Augmented in DADGAD — Notes and Intervals
The D# Lydian Augmented scale is a majestic and highly dissonant scale used over major-augmented chords. On Guitar, it contains the notes D#, F, G, A, B, C, D. Its sharp fourth and fifth degrees create a powerful, otherworldly sound that is often used in epic cinematic scores and advanced jazz fusion. Commonly used in Film Scores, Jazz, Fusion, Progressive. Notable players include John Williams, Wayne Shorter, Joe Satriani. Use over Maj7#5, Maj7#11 chords. Perfect for epic, cinematic moments that need to feel larger than life.
Notes: D#, F, G, A, B, C, D
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3M, 4A, 5A, 6M, 7M
Degrees: 1 2 3 #4 #5 6 7
Formula: W-W-W-W-H-W-H
Number of notes: 7
Tuning: DADGAD (D-A-D-G-A-D)
About DADGAD Tuning
DADGAD tuning creates an open Dsus4 chord when strummed open, producing a hauntingly beautiful, droning sound that has become synonymous with Celtic folk music and modern acoustic songwriting. The tuning's natural resonance and overtones make even simple fingerpicking patterns sound rich and complex.
Popularized by Davey Graham in the 1960s and later championed by Pierre Bensusan and Jimmy Page, DADGAD has become one of the most beloved alternate tunings for acoustic guitarists. Its suspended quality — neither clearly major nor minor — creates an ethereal, meditative atmosphere that invites exploration. The tuning excels at creating drone-based arrangements where open strings ring against fretted notes.
Notable artists: Pierre Bensusan, Jimmy Page, Andy McKee, Davey Graham, Laurence Juber
Best for: Celtic folk, acoustic songwriting, drone-based fingerpicking, and meditative compositions
Explore This Scale in Other Tunings
- D# Lydian Augmented in Standard Tuning
- D# Lydian Augmented in Drop D
- D# Lydian Augmented in Open G
- D# Lydian Augmented in Baritone (B Standard)
- D# Lydian Augmented in 7-string
- D# Lydian Augmented in 8-string
- D# Lydian Augmented in Drop C
- D# Lydian Augmented in Drop B
- D# Lydian Augmented in Open D
- D# Lydian Augmented in Half Step Down
- D# Lydian Augmented in Open E
- D# Lydian Augmented in Open A
- D# Lydian Augmented in Double Drop D
- D# Lydian Augmented in Open C