All Modes
Degree V

Mixolydian Mode

Dominant Seventh, Bluesy & Rock

Interval Formula
W W H W W H W
C 1
D 2
E 3
F 4
G 5
A 6
Bb 7
C

Overview

Mixolydian is a major mode with a lowered 7th degree. This gives it the sound of a dominant 7th chord built on the root, the classic sound of blues and rock. The lowered 7th creates a less resolved, earthier feel than Ionian, perfect for grooves that don't need to fully land.

The characteristic bVII chord (the "subtonic") in Mixolydian is what gives classic rock its anthemic quality. In G Mixolydian, the bVII is F major, which against G creates a loose, unresolved tension that feels endlessly repeatable. Celtic music also relies heavily on Mixolydian for its distinctive pentatonic-adjacent sound. The entire blues scale can be seen as a pentatonic extraction from Mixolydian.

Pro Tip: Any time you hear a repeating I – bVII – IV progression, you're hearing Mixolydian in action.

Famous Examples

  • Sweet Home Chicago by Robert Johnson
  • Hey Joe by Jimi Hendrix
  • Norwegian Wood by The Beatles
  • Clocks by Coldplay

Characteristic Chord Progression

I – bVII – IV – I
In G: G major – F major – C major – G major

Common Genres

BluesRockJazzCelticCountry

Visualize Mixolydian Mode

See Mixolydian highlighted on a piano keyboard. Change the root note to explore all 12 keys.

Mode Ionian
Root C
Character Bright & Major
Scale Notes
Interval Pattern