D#maj9

General info

Full name

D# Major 9

Symbol

D#maj9

Root

D#

Quality

Major 9

Chord notes

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key

ITonic (I)Eb major

Stability / tension

Stable — can serve as major tonic

Most common resolutions

G#G# MajorA#A# MajorCmC Minor

Unstable degrees

7D

1D#

resolves up to the root

Main resolution

D#maj9source

A#A# Major

Major chord D# is a stable tonic. As tonic it doesn't require resolution, but in a progression context typically moves to IV or V.

Other resolutions

D#maj9source

Deceptive resolution

CmC Minor

As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).

D#maj9source

Modal resolution

C#C# Major

In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.

D#maj9source

Jazz reharmonization

D#maj7D# Major 7

In jazz, a major chord is enriched to maj7, 6/9, or add9 and can smoothly transition into a ii-V of another key (modulation).

D#maj9source

Functional resolution

A#A# Major

As the IV degree (subdominant), a major chord can resolve to V or directly to I (plagal cadence).

Features

Character

Major, with a major 7th and 9th

Characteristic interval

Major 7th (M7), 9th

Description

The major 7th creates semitone tension toward the octave, while the major 9th extends the major seventh chord. Separating extensions by register clarifies the structure.

Application

• Tonic Imaj9
• Neo-soul and jazz
• Sustained chordal textures

Voicing & structure

Harmony

Compatible scales

All chord tones are contained in these scales — use them for improvisation.