G6

General info

Full name

G 6th

Symbol

G6

Root

G

Quality

6th

Chord notes

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key

VDominant (V)C major

Stability / tension

Stable — can serve as major tonic

Most common resolutions

CC MajorDD MajorEmE Minor

Main resolution

G6source

DD Major

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

Other resolutions

G6source

Deceptive resolution

EmE Minor

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

G6source

Modal resolution

FF Major

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

G6source

Jazz reharmonization

Gmaj7G 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).

G6source

Functional resolution

DD 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 6th and no 7th

Characteristic interval

Major 6th (M6)

Description

The major 6th extends a major triad without seventh-chord dissonance. The chord retains clear major quality and may serve a tonic function.

Application

• Tonic chord in jazz and popular music
• Endings on I6
• 5–6 voice leading

Voicing & structure

Harmony

Typical progressions

I-V-vi-IV

C—G—Am—F

Pop

Compatible scales

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