The Mixolydian mode is a favorite among guitarists in a number of different genres. It’s constructed starting on the fifth degree of any major scale. For example, If you begin a C major scale
The Mixolydian mode is a favorite among guitarists in a number of different genres. It’s constructed starting on the fifth degree of any major scale. For example, If you begin a C major scale (C-D-E-F-G-A-B) on the note G—without changing the order of the notes—you’ll produce G Mixolydian (G-A-B-C-D-E-F).
It may be easier, however, to think of this mode as a major scale whose 7th—F# of the G major scale—has been flatted a half step. This small adjustment adds a whole lot of attitude, which makes Mixolydian well suited to everything from the sassy riffs of southern rock to the extended improvisations of jam-band guitarists. In this lesson, you’ll learn how to harness some of the harmonic and melodic sounds unique to this popular and exciting mode.
Before jumping straight to the figures, you should first familiarize yourself with the basic harmony formed by the Mixolydian mode: I-ii-iii˚-IV-v-vi-bVII. Then, to hear the subtle, earthy effects of a Mixolydian-based progression in action, check out the G Mixolydian arpeggios of FIGURE 1. Bars 1 and 2 feature the common I-V (G-Cmaj7) change, but the true sound of Mixolydian comes through in bar 3, with the bVII (Fmaj7) chord. For the smoothest-sounding bass movement, keep your fret hand thumb wrapped around the 6th string’s 1st fret.
FIGURE 1
Reminiscent of Eric Clapton’s “Cocaine” but played in open-D and with a slide, FIGURE 2 provides a good example of Mixolydian’s rougher side. Check out the quick alternation between the I (D) and bVII (C)—it just doesn’t get much more rock and roll than this. To prevent unwanted string noise, pick the passage with your thumb and fingers while resting your palm over the unplayed strings. At the same time, lay your fret hand’s 1st finger down across