Gm6
G Minor 6
Octaves
Musical context
How the chord relates to the scale, mode, key and progression.
Theory
General info
- Full name
- G Minor 6
- Symbol
- Gm6
- Root
- G
- Quality
- Minor 6
Chord notes
1Groot
b3Bbminor 3rd
5Dperfect 5th
6Emajor 6th
Functions & resolutions
- Typical function in key
- ii
- Stability / tension
- Stable — can serve as minor tonic
- Main resolution
- Minor chord Gm is a stable tonic in the minor key of the same root. Typical motion leads to the subdominant (iv) or dominant (V).
- Other resolutions
- A minor chord can unexpectedly move to the major chord on the bVI degree — a deceptive-resolution effect.In Dorian and Aeolian modes, the minor chord is the tonic. Typical modal motion: i → bVII or i → iv.In jazz, a minor chord often serves as ii in a ii-V-I progression. Its "resolution" is the dominant a 4th up.As the vi degree in major, a minor chord can move to IV or ii, creating subdominant motion.
Features
- Character
- Minor, with a major 6th and no 7th
- Characteristic interval
- Major 6th (M6)
- Description
- The minor 3rd defines minor quality, while the major 6th distinguishes the chord from a natural-minor sonority with b6. Its intervals fit Dorian or melodic-minor contexts.
- Application
- Minor tonic in jazz
- Dorian harmony
- Melodic minor
Voicing & structure
Root position
v1G(G4)Bass
v2Bb(Bb4) m3from G
v3D(D5) M3from Bb
v4E(E5) M2from D
Harmony
- Typical progressions
Compatible scales
All chord tones are contained in these scales — use them for improvisation.
This chord on guitar 🎸
See how Gm6 looks on guitar.
Circle of fifths
Highlighted major keys contain this chord among their diatonic harmonies.
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Practice
Keyboard Trainer
Reinforce it in practice — play and name notes on the interactive keyboard.
Test yourself
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