Minor Sixth Chord

The Minor Sixth Chord is a minor triad to which a major sixth is added. The notes are: root, minor third, perfect fifth, and major sixth. Unlike the major sixth on a major chord (Maj6), the major sixth on a minor chord creates a more 'sophisticated', 'cinematic' and sometimes 'melancholic' or 'nostalgic' sound, but with a touch of 'hope' or 'ambiguity'. It is often used in jazz, blues (especially in minor contexts) and soundtracks to add color, refinement and a sense of emotional depth. It can also be interpreted or used as a substitute for a half-diminished chord or as a specific voicing for altered dominant seventh chords, offering great harmonic flexibility.

Common Progressions

• i6 - iv - v (the sixth adds a distinctive and enriched color to the minor first degree, making it more interesting than a simple minor triad)
• Often used on minor tonic chords in jazz songs for a richer and 'vintage' sound, especially in gypsy jazz or swing.
• Can appear in chromatic successions or as a passing voicing to create fluid and unexpected harmonic movement.