Mixolydian mode

What it is

Mixolydian is a major mode. Its formula: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ♭7. Compared with the major scale, only one note changes: the 7th, which drops a half step.

The simplest example is G Mixolydian: G, A, B, C, D, E, F. The white keys starting on G: the same notes as C major, with G as the root.

Its characteristic note

It’s the ♭7 (F, in G Mixolydian). In the major scale, the 7th sits a half step below the root and pushes toward a resolution. Lowered a half step, it relaxes everything: the sound stays happy but earthier, more rock. On the neck, it’s shown in purple.

It’s also the note that turns a major chord into a seventh chord: G becomes G7.

Which chords to use it over

Mixolydian works over a 7 chord (dominant chord), or over an I–♭VII–IV loop. In G: G – F – C. The F chord, a whole step below the root, contains the ♭7: that’s the Mixolydian sound in a nutshell.

In a blues, every chord is a 7 chord: you can play the Mixolydian of each chord, or mix it with the blues scale.

Where you hear it

• Rock: “Sweet Home Alabama” is often cited, with its major loop running through the ♭VII chord.
• Blues and country, where seventh chords are everywhere.
• 1960s pop: the Beatles’ “Norwegian Wood” is a frequently quoted example.

On the neck

Start the backing track and bring out the F when the F chord comes around. To compare it with the other modes, see The modes. All 12 keys are listed below.