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Sixth Chords

Sixth chords are a little different from the chords we've looked at so far because they can be major or minor but not dominant. They can be interchanged with some dominant chords in the blues, but by themselves they don't function as such. They are also different because we don't build them entirely from 3rds. Sixth chords are major or minor triads with the sixth scale degree added on top. The chord tones are the root, 3rd, 5th, and 6th. The 6th is an interval of a major 2nd (one whole step) above the 5th, instead of the interval of a 3rd.

Major Sixth Chords​

Building From Scales​

To build a major sixth chord, we again use the major scale (because we're building a major type of chord). After constructing a major triad with the 1st, 3rd, and 5th scale degrees, we put the 6th degree of the scale on ton.

The notes of a C major sixth chord are C, E, G, and A.

The Intervallic View​

The major sixth chord is constructed from a major triad (major 3rd on the bottom, minor 3rd on top) and a major 2nd (one whole step) placed on top of the chord. The outside interval is a major 6th.

Usage​

Major sixth chords are often referred to as color chords because they add harmonic color to a tune. They can be used as the I and IV chords in twelve-bar blues and are also used extensively in jazz and jazz-style blues, as well as in R&B tunes. In jazz and R&B settings, they are often alternated with major seventh chords. In twelve-bar blues, they are often alternated with dominant seventh and ninth chords, even though they are not technically dominant chords.

Minor Sixth Chords​

Building From Scales​

The way to build a minor sixth chord is to use the 1st, b3rd, 5th, and 6th degrees of the natural minor scale. Remember that the 6th degree is flatted (b6) in a natural minor scale. We raise it to make a natural 6th. This prevents it from clashing with the 5th of the chord, only a half step away from the 6th. In the key of C minor, for instance, we have an Ab for the 6th degree. We have to raise it one half step to an A. That means that the 6th of the chord is one whole step above the 5th-just like in the major sixth chord.

The notes of the C minor sixth chord are C, Eb, G and A natural.

The Intervallic View​

The bottom contains a minor triad with the interval of a minor 3rd below a major 3rd. On top we put the interval of a major 2nd.

Usage​

Minor sixth chords are again used for harmonic color, and are alternated with minor seventh and ninth chords. They are beautiful chords and can be used wherever any of the previously discussed minor chords can. The key to their use lies in the individual player's ear. If you like the sound, use it. After all, it is through the use of unusual, "odd," or "wrong" chords that the frontiers of music are expanded outward. Today's norm was likely considered improper form at one time or another.

Chords​

By Type​

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