Identifying Modes Through “Giveaway” Chords

Have you ever been in a jam and instantly recognized the mode just by spotting a particular chord? For me, it’s like a light bulb goes off when I see certain chords in progressions. For example, if a G7 chord shows up while I’m playing in D minor, I know right away we’re leaning toward Dorian. Or, if an Ebm7 chord pops up in F minor, it screams Phrygian. Similarly, a Bmaj7 chord in E major? That’s Lydian territory for sure.

These chords, when they appear in progressions, provide strong hints—or what I call “giveaways”—about the mode in play. The secret lies in the intervals within the chord itself that differentiate one mode from another. Each mode has a distinct sound because of the specific interval it introduces, setting it apart from the typical major (Ionian) or natural minor (Aeolian) scale.

In this post, we’ll explore several modes—Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, and Locrian—and break down the key chords that give away the mode being used. We’ll also look at how these chords can signal which mode you’re playing in, making it easier to adapt your playing.

A quick note: I don’t use lowercase Roman numerals for minor chords. Instead, I follow John Mehegan’s system, outlined in Tonal and Rhythmic Principles. This means that the chords are simply labeled I, II, III, etc., with alterations noted only when the chords deviate from the standard diatonic harmony.

Dorian Mode: Minor with a Natural 6th

Dorian stands out from Aeolian, the natural minor, because of its bright, natural 6th interval. This little tweak gives Dorian a slightly happier, more open sound than the typical minor scale. Think of it as adding a bit of sunlight to a minor landscape.

When playing through a minor progression, if you encounter a chord containing that natural 6th, it’s a strong indicator that you’re in Dorian territory. This natural 6th can show up as various intervals within a chord—such as a 9th, 11th, or 13th—but to keep things simple, we’ll focus on the common chords built from the root, 3rd, 5th, and 7th.

Here are the telltale chords that give Dorian away:

• Chord built from the root: The VIm7b5 chord. In C Dorian, this would be Am7b5. If you see this chord in a minor context, it’s a strong Dorian clue.
• Chord built from the 3rd: The IVmaj or IV7 chord. In C Dorian, this is F or F7. This is a clear sign you’re not in Aeolian anymore.
• Chord built from the 5th: The IImin chord. In C Dorian, that would be Dm. Songs like Moondance and Smiling Faces Sometimes highlight this IImin chord.
• Chord built from the 7th: The bVIImaj7 chord. In C Dorian, this would be Bbmaj7. This chord is less common in standard minor progressions, but when it appears, it’s a big Dorian indicator.

Phrygian Mode: Minor with a Flat 2nd

Phrygian’s unique, dark flavor comes from its flat 2nd (b2). This scale gives off an exotic, moody vibe, often associated with flamenco and other Spanish music.

Here are some chords that highlight Phrygian’s signature b2:

• Chord built from the root of the b2: The bIImaj or bIImaj7 chord. In C Phrygian, this would be Dbmaj7. This is the most obvious Phrygian giveaway, thanks to the prominent b2.
• Chord built from the 3rd: The bVIImin chord. In C Phrygian, this is Bbmin. It complements the dark mood that Phrygian evokes.
• Chord built from the 5th: The Vmin7b5 chord. In C Phrygian, this is Gm7b5. This chord adds the tension often found in Phrygian progressions.
• Chord built from the 7th: The III7 chord. In C Phrygian, this would be Eb7. Although less common, it adds a harmonic depth to Phrygian’s characteristic sound.

The bIImaj and bVIImin are the usual suspects when it comes to Phrygian progressions.

Lydian Mode: Major with a #4

Lydian’s sharp 4th interval is what gives it its expansive, otherworldly sound. It’s a major scale, but that #4 adds a feeling of floaty, dreamlike tension.

Here’s how you can identify Lydian through its chords:

• Chord built from the root of the #4: The bVm7b5 chord. In C Lydian, this is F#m7b5. This chord can signal that Lydian’s sharp 4th is in play.
• Chord built from the 3rd: The IImaj or II7 chord. In C Lydian, this is D or D7. This dominant II7 is a big giveaway that the song is leaning into Lydian territory.
• Chord built from the 5th: The VIImin or VIImin7 chord. In C Lydian, this would be Bmin7.
• Chord built from the 7th: The Vmaj7 chord. In C Lydian, this is Gmaj7. This chord adds a richness that emphasizes the expansive feel of Lydian.

That II7 chord is a dead giveaway for Lydian, signaling that you’re definitely not in Ionian anymore.

Mixolydian Mode: Major with a Flat 7th

Mixolydian takes the major scale and adds a flattened 7th (b7), which gives it a bluesy or rock-tinged edge. You’ll find Mixolydian all over rock, blues, and jazz, thanks to that distinctive dominant 7th chord sound.

Here’s how Mixolydian reveals itself through chords:

• Chord built from the root: The bVIImaj or bVIImaj7 chord. In C Mixolydian, this is Bbmaj7.
• Chord built from the 3rd: The Vmin or Vmin7 chord. In C Mixolydian, this is Gm7.
• Chord built from the 5th: The IIImin7b5 chord. In C Mixolydian, this is Em7b5.
• Chord built from the 7th: The I7 chord. In C Mixolydian, this would be C7.

The I7 chord is unmistakable, but the bVIImaj chord is also a key player in Mixolydian progressions.

Locrian Mode: Minor with a Flat 2nd and Flat 5th

Locrian is the oddball of the modes, featuring both a flat 2nd (b2) and a flat 5th (b5). These intervals give it a diminished, unstable quality, which is why it’s not used as much in mainstream music. However, Locrian pops up in metal and jazz for its dissonant tension.

Here are some chords that highlight Locrian:

• Chord built from the root: The bVmaj7 chord. In C Locrian, this is Gbmaj7.
• Chord built from the 3rd: The bIIImin7 chord. In C Locrian, this is Ebmin7.
• Chord built from the 5th: The Imin7b5 chord. In C Locrian, this is Cm7b5. This chord, with its diminished 5th, really emphasizes Locrian’s unstable feel.
• Chord built from the 7th: The bVI7 chord. In C Locrian, this is Ab7.

That Imin7b5 chord is the hallmark of Locrian—it’s your signpost that this mode is in play.

Conclusion: Unlocking Modal Harmony Through Chords

Recognizing these “giveaway” chords in progressions is a powerful tool for any musician. Whether you’re writing a new song, improvising, or analyzing music, these chords help you decode the mode in use. Once you’ve identified the mode, you can tailor your playing to fit its unique sound, adding depth and expression to your music.

Each mode offers its own palette of emotional tones, and by mastering these modal chord structures, you unlock a wider world of creativity. Keep an ear out for these chords—once you start recognizing them, you’ll see how often they reveal the modal framework behind your favorite songs.