F Mixolydian Mode

F – G – A – Bb – C – D – Eb
Formula:W-W-H-W-W-H-W
Intervals:P1-M2-M3-P4-P5-M6-m7-P8
Scale Degrees:1-2-3-4-5-6-♭7-8

Introduction

The F Mixolydian mode is the fifth mode of the Bb Major scale. It has a major sound with a flatted seventh degree, widely used in rock, blues, and folk.

F Mixolydian Mode Notes

DegreeNameNoteInterval
1TonicF4P1
2SupertonicG4M2
3MediantA4M3
4SubdominantBb4P4
5DominantC5P5
6SubmediantD5M6
♭7Leading ToneEb5m7
8OctaveF5P8

F Mixolydian Mode — Frequently Asked Questions

What notes are in the F Mixolydian mode?

F Mixolydian contains: F, G, A, Bb, C, D, Eb. Fifth mode of Bb Major. Flatted 7th (Eb instead of E).

How does F Mixolydian differ from F Major?

One note: flatted 7th (Eb vs E).

What is the parent major scale?

Fifth mode of Bb Major.

How is F Mixolydian used in music?

Matches F7. Common in blues, jazz, funk, and gospel.

What chords are built from F Mixolydian?

F, Gm, Adim, Bb, Cm, Dm, Eb.

What songs use Mixolydian?

Sweet Home Alabama, Norwegian Wood, blues.

Practice Tips

  • Lower E to Eb — hear the Mixolydian blues.
  • F Mixolydian matches F7.
  • Practice over an F7 vamp.
  • The bVII (Eb) over F is the hallmark.
  • Common in blues in Bb and gospel.
  • Compare with F Major.