B Bebop Major Guitar Scale — Drop C
Guitar scale in Drop C tuning — fretboard diagram
B Bebop Major in Drop C — Notes and Intervals
The B Bebop Major scale is a classic swing tool that introduces a chromatic link between the fifth and sixth degrees. On Guitar, its notes are B, C#, D#, E, F#, G, G#, A#. It is essential for creating the flowing, endless melodic lines characteristic of the traditional bebop era. Commonly used in Jazz, Swing, Bebop. Notable players include Wes Montgomery, Barney Kessel, Kenny Burrell. Use over Maj7, Maj6 chords. Essential for the smooth, flowing lines of traditional swing and bebop over major harmony.
Notes: B, C#, D#, E, F#, G, G#, A#
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3M, 4P, 5P, 5A, 6M, 7M
Degrees: 1 2 3 4 5 #6 7 8
Formula: W-W-H-W-H-H-W-H
Number of notes: 8
Tuning: Drop C (C-G-C-F-A-D)
About Drop C Tuning
Drop C tuning (C-G-C-F-A-D) drops every string one whole step below Drop D, delivering a massive, brutal low-end that has defined the sound of modern metalcore, post-hardcore, and nu-metal. The low C string provides earth-shaking power chords with a single finger while maintaining familiar Drop D shapes — just two frets lower.
From System of a Down's iconic riffs to Killswitch Engage's crushing breakdowns, Drop C has become the standard tuning for heavy music that needs to sound bigger than standard Drop D. It bridges the gap between standard guitar territory and the extended range of 7-string guitars, making it accessible to players who want heavier tones without buying a new instrument.
Notable artists: System of a Down, Killswitch Engage, Bullet for My Valentine, As I Lay Dying, August Burns Red
Best for: Modern metalcore breakdowns, heavy power chord riffs, nu-metal grooves, and aggressive rhythm playing
Explore This Scale in Other Tunings
- B Bebop Major in Standard Tuning
- B Bebop Major in Drop D
- B Bebop Major in DADGAD
- B Bebop Major in Open G
- B Bebop Major in Baritone (B Standard)
- B Bebop Major in 7-string
- B Bebop Major in 8-string
- B Bebop Major in Drop B
- B Bebop Major in Open D
- B Bebop Major in Half Step Down
- B Bebop Major in Open E
- B Bebop Major in Open A
- B Bebop Major in Double Drop D
- B Bebop Major in Open C