For aspiring musicians and seasoned songwriters alike, understanding the intricacies of musical modes can be a milestone in their artistic journey. Each of these modes, which date back to Greek antiquity, contain their own distinct set of characteristics, emotional impact, and historical importance. Mastering these modes can unlock a treasure trove of musical possibilities.
Join us as we explore these seven musical modes, laying out their unique characteristics, how they function within a song, and how you can begin applying these modes to your own songwriting.
Musical Modes: What Are They?
Musical modes are a set of seven scales that have been used over centuries to create distinct tonalities and moods in music. Each mode (Ionian, Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aeolian, Locrian) has its own unique elements that, when used effectively, can shape the mood, movement, and style of a song. For musicians, understanding these modes gives us a rich palette of sounds and emotions to play with.
Let’s explore each mode and the secrets they hold.
1. Ionian Mode
If you've ever picked up an instrument, there's a very good chance you’ve played the Ionian mode. This mode is, in fact, identical to the major scale. The Ionian mode is characterized by its bright, joyful, and uplifting sound and has served as the bedrock mode for much of Western music, from rock to pop to classical. As a songwriter, if you're looking to write a memorable chorus or an upbeat verse, the Ionian mode is exactly where you should start.
In the key of C, the Ionian mode is: C - D - E - F - G - A - B - C
Some popular songs you’ll surely recognize in the Ionian mode are:
- “Free Falling” by Tom Petty
- “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles
- “Happy” by Pharell Williams
2. Dorian Mode
The Dorian Mode can be used to great effect to create a somewhat darker and mysterious sound while remaining soulful and jazzy. Its versatility can be attributed to the fact that the Dorian blends the qualities of both major and minor scales; it’s a minor scale with a raised sixth degree. This subtle characteristic separates it from a strictly minor scale, giving it its somber yet hopeful tone. If you’re looking to craft an emotionally rich ballad or seductive R&B-style groove, the Dorian Mode is the way to go.
In the key of D, the Dorian Mode is: D - E - F - G - A - B - C - D
You’re sure to recognize the mysterious beauty of these popular songs played in the Dorian mode:
- “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson
- “Scarborough Fair” by Simon And Garfunkel
- “Mad World” by Tears for Fears
3. Phrygian Mode
The Phrygian mode distinguishes itself by being the most exotic sounding of the seven modes. It is a minor scale with a lowered second third which gives it its unique sound, often described as having either a Spanish or Eastern European flavor. But don’t let its far-flung moods deceive you. While it's certainly a popular mode used in Flamenco and Balkan music, American rock and heavy metal artists have used the Phrygian to great effect. If you’re looking to add a unique and esoteric flourish to a guitar solo or lay the foundation of a dark metal headbanger, look no further than the Phrygian mode.
In the key of E, the Phrygian Mode is: E - F - G - A - B - C - D - E
Popular songs that have dabbled in the dark mystery of the Phrygian are:
- “Wherever I May Roam” by Metallica
- “White Rabbit” by The Jefferson Airplane
- “London Calling” by The Clash
4. Lydian Mode
Sit back, relax, and get swept away by the dreamy and ethereal sounds of the Lydian mode. This mode gets its otherworldly tones by being a major scale with a raised fourth degree, giving it the brightness of a major scale with a touch of mystery and rumination. The Lydian is often a go-to for film scores, prog rock operas, and shoegaze rock anthems.
In the key of F, the Lydian Mode is: F - G - A - B - C - D - E - F
Songs that have used the Lydian Mode to take their listeners on a trip include:
- “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac
- “Freewill” by Rush
- “Man on the Moon” by R.E.M.
5. Mixolydian Mode
The Mixolydian mode shares a lot in common with the classic major scaling of the Ionian mode. Where it differs is that, unlike the Ionian, the Mixolydian has a lowered seventh degree, giving it a bluesy, laid-back, rock-oriented style. This mode is common in country, blues, and classic rock music as it is often the go-to mode for chord progressions. The next time you tune in to your local country radio station or download a classic rock mix on Spotify, you’ll be sure to hear the Mixolydian mode.
In the key of G, the Mixolydian mode is: G - A - B - C - D - E - F - G
Tunes in the Mixolydian you’ve quite likely sung along to are:
- “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses
- “All Along the Watchtower” by Bob Dylan (as covered by Jimi Hendrix)
- “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
6. Aeolian Mode
The Aeolian mode is also more commonly known as the natural minor scale. An incredibly popular mode employed by songwriters spanning all genres and eras, the Aeolian mode is the mode of sadness, sorrow, and longing. Many of music's most powerful ballads, torch love songs, and emotional dirges have been written inside the Aeolian mode.
In the key of A, the Aeolian mode is: A - B - C - D - E - F - G - A
Popular Aeolian mode songs that have left listeners in tears include:
- “In the Air Tonight” by Phil Collins
- “Street Spirit” by Radiohead
- “Aint No Sunshine” by Bill Withers
7. Locrian Mode
The seventh and final mode is the Locrian mode. This is arguably the least used mode in popular Western music because it can strike ears most used to the Ionian or Aeolian mode as sounding dissonant and unresolved. The Locrian mode is a diminished scale with a lowered second and fifth degree, giving it a tense and unstable sound. While not usually the mode of choice for a Top 40 hit, the Locrian is a perfect choice for more experimental music, video game soundtracks, and heavy metal. A songwriter looking to expand their sound and to add tension and dissonance to their music should play around within the Locrian mode.
In the key of B, the Locrian Mode is: B - C - D - E - F - G - A - B
Songs you might recognize in the Locrian mode are:
- “Army of Me” by Bjork
- "Marble Zone" Theme from Sonic the Hedgehog (video game)
- "Planet Caravan" by Black Sabbath
Practical Tips for Songwriters
- Experiment with Different Modes: Try writing melodies or chord progressions in different modes to see how they change the mood of your music. This can provide fresh inspiration and new directions for your songs.
- Combine Modes: Don’t be afraid to switch modes within a song. For example, you might use the Ionian mode for a bright chorus and the Aeolian mode for a somber verse, creating a dynamic contrast.
- Analyze Your Favorite Songs: Identify the modes used in your favorite tracks. Understanding how other songwriters use modes can give you insights and ideas for your own compositions.
- Use Modes for Soloing: If you play an instrument, practice soloing in different modes. This can add a new dimension to your improvisations and help you develop a deeper understanding of each mode’s unique sound.
Master Your Mode
By exploring and incorporating the seven musical modes into your songwriting, you can expand your creative horizons and bring a richer, more diverse selection of sounds to your craft. Whether you're aiming for an upbeat anthem, a dreamy ballad, a country weeper, or a dark, intense rock song, these modes offer endless possibilities for crafting memorable and emotionally impactful songs.
So pick up your instrument, dive into these modes, and let your creativity soar!
●●●Written by Jesse Stanford, Company Cue
