E mixolydian (E, F♯, G♯, A, B, C♯, D) has three sharps in its key signature and its flattened 7th (D) gives it the bluesy, riff-driven quality that powers countless rock songs. The White Stripes' "Seven Nation Army" uses E mixolydian for its iconic, grinding riff. It is one of the most-played scales in rock guitar.
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 E Mixolydian are: E, F#m, G#dim, A, Bm, C#m, D. These are the chords built naturally from each degree of the scale.
What is the Mixolydian?
E mixolydian (E, F♯, G♯, A, B, C♯, D) has three sharps in its key signature and its flattened 7th (D) gives it the bluesy, riff-driven quality that powers countless rock songs. The White Stripes' "Seven Nation Army" uses E mixolydian for its iconic, grinding riff. It is one of the most-played scales in rock guitar.
What notes are in the E Mixolydian?
The E Mixolydian contains the notes: E, F#, G#, A, B, C#, D. This is a 7-note scale starting from E.
How many chords does the E Mixolydian have?
The E Mixolydian produces 7 diatonic chords, one built on each degree of the scale: E, F#m, G#dim, A, Bm, C#m, D.
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
E is at the 4 o'clock position. Related keys: B (dominant), A (subdominant), C# (relative minor), F# (supertonic), D (subtonic).