E6/9

General info

Full name

E 6/9

Symbol

E6/9

Root

E

Quality

6/9

Chord notes

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key

ITonic (I)E major

Stability / tension

Stable — can serve as major tonic

Most common resolutions

AA MajorBB MajorC#mC# Minor

Main resolution

E6/9source

BB Major

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

Other resolutions

E6/9source

Deceptive resolution

C#mC# Minor

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

E6/9source

Modal resolution

DD Major

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

E6/9source

Jazz reharmonization

Emaj7E 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).

E6/9source

Functional resolution

BB Major

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

Features

Character

Major, with 6th and 9th

Characteristic interval

6th, 9th

Description

The major 6th and 9th extend a major triad without a 7th, so the chord retains tonic stability.

Application

• Final chord in jazz and bossa nova
• Soul and R&B
• Alternative to plain major

Voicing & structure

Harmony

Compatible scales

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