C mixolydian (C, D, E, F, G, A, B♭) has one flat in its key signature and its flattened 7th (B♭) gives it a bluesy, dominant quality that distinguishes it from C major. It is the go-to scale for dominant 7th chord improvisation in blues, rock, and funk. C mixolydian works over C7, C9, and C13 chords in any genre.
The flattened 7th is Mixolydian’s signature — it turns the major scale’s leading tone into a bluesy, unresolved dominant sound. This single interval drives rock, blues, and funk vamps and makes the dominant I⁷ chord possible.
The seven diatonic modes — parallel modes starting from the same root with different interval patterns. Each mode has a unique character derived from the major scale.
The diatonic chords in C Mixolydian are: C, Dm, Edim, F, Gm, Am, Bb. These are the chords built naturally from each degree of the scale.
What is the Mixolydian?
C mixolydian (C, D, E, F, G, A, B♭) has one flat in its key signature and its flattened 7th (B♭) gives it a bluesy, dominant quality that distinguishes it from C major. It is the go-to scale for dominant 7th chord improvisation in blues, rock, and funk. C mixolydian works over C7, C9, and C13 chords in any genre.
What notes are in the C Mixolydian?
The C Mixolydian contains the notes: C, D, E, F, G, A, Bb. This is a 7-note scale starting from C.
How many chords does the C Mixolydian have?
The C Mixolydian produces 7 diatonic chords, one built on each degree of the scale: C, Dm, Edim, F, Gm, Am, Bb.
What is the formula for the Mixolydian?
The Mixolydian follows the interval formula: W-W-H-W-W-H-W (W = whole step, H = half step).
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Position in circle of fifths
C is at the 12 o'clock position. Related keys: G (dominant), F (subdominant), A (relative minor), D (supertonic), Bb (subtonic).