Lydian Dominant: guitar scale formula, degrees and fretboard patterns

Scale formula

Formula: 1 2 3 #4 5 6 b7. Classification: dominant-specialized.

Description

Detailed explanation Lydian dominant is the 4th mode of melodic minor — a major with a sharp 4th and a minor 7th at once. The characteristic sound The #4 gives Lydian light, the b7 a dominant base. Together it's a bright, lifted dominant with no bite. Tonic and function The tonic is 7#11. It's the main scale over a #11 dominant, often non-functional (backdoor). Chords and use Over 7#11 and 13#11. The Steely Dan and modern-big-band sound. Great over a backdoor dominant (bVII7). Essence A major with #4 and b7. The Lydian dominant scale.

Degree functions

• I — Dominant root: Degree I establishes the dominant foundation.
• II — Upper extension: Degree II works as natural 9 and expands the dominant.
• III — Dominant third: Degree III defines the major quality of the dominant.
• #IV — Sharp eleven color: Degree #IV is the main color tone and the basis of 7#11.
• V — Dominant support: Degree V preserves the structural stability of the dominant.
• VI — Thirteen color: Degree VI gives 13 and softens dominant tension.
• bVII — Dominant seventh: Degree bVII together with III forms the dominant core.

Use cases

• 7#11 harmony
• tritone substitution
• modern jazz dominant
• fusion improvisation
• colorful non-altered dominant

Typical progressions

• V7#11–I
• bII7#11–I
• II7#11–Imaj7
• dominant pedal with #11