Gmaj13

G Major 13

Octaves

Musical context

How the chord relates to the scale, mode, key and progression.

Theory

General info

Full name
G Major 13
Symbol
Gmaj13
Root
G
Quality
Major 13

Chord notes

1Groot
3Bmajor 3rd
5Dperfect 5th
7F#major 7th
2Amajor 2nd
6Emajor 6th

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key
IVSubdominant (IV)D major
Stability / tension
Stable — can serve as major tonic
Most common resolutions
Unstable degrees
7F#
1G
resolves up to the root
Main resolution
Gmaj13source
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
Gmaj13source
Deceptive resolution
EmE Minor
As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).
Gmaj13source
Modal resolution
FF Major
In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.
Gmaj13source
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).
Gmaj13source
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 major 7th and 13th
Characteristic interval
Major 7th (M7), 13th
Description
The major 7th and 13th extend the major triad into a seven-note harmonic structure.
Application
  • Final jazz cadences
  • Orchestral arrangements
  • Modern pop and neo-soul

Voicing & structure

Root position

v1G(G4)Bass
root
v2B(B4)M3from G
v3D(D5)m3from B
v4F#(F#5)M3from D
v5A(A5)m3from F#
v6E(E6)P5from A

Harmony

Typical progressions

Compatible scales

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

This chord on guitar 🎸

See how Gmaj13 looks on guitar.

Explore

Circle of fifths

Highlighted major keys contain this chord among their diatonic harmonies.

CAmGEmDBmAF#mEC#mBG#mF#D#mDbBbmAbFmEbCmBbGmFDmGmajor
Relative key
Dominant
Subdominant
Key signature
1 sharp (F#)

Practice

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Frequently Asked Questions