Differences Between Major and Minor Chords

Overview

• Major chords are often associated with brighter, "happy" sounds.
• Minor chords are associated with darker, "sad" sounds.
• The key difference lies in the 3rd note of the scale.

Chord Construction

Major Chords

• Consists of the 1st, 3rd, and 5th notes of the major scale.

Minor Chords

• Consists of the 1st, flattened (lowered) 3rd, and 5th notes of the major scale.
• The 3rd note is flattened by a half-step to create a minor chord.
• This flattening is what gives the minor chord its somber tone.

Constructing Scales

• A scale typically contains 7 notes (or 8 if including the final note an octave higher).
• Example of A Major Scale: A B C# D E F# G# A
• A Natural Minor Scale turns the Major Scale’s 3rd note down a half step:
  • Example: A B C D E F G A

Relative Major and Minor Scales

• Relative minor shares the same notes as a major scale but starts at a different point.
• Example:
  • A Minor Scale: A B C D E F G A
  • C Major Scale: C D E F G A B C
• The relative minor of a major scale is the 6th interval.
• The relative major of a minor scale is the 3rd interval.

Song Examples

Shout - The Isley Brothers

• Uses both A minor and C chords.

Celebration - Kool and the Gang

• Contains minor chords but maintains an upbeat tone with chords like Cm7.

Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song - B.J. Thomas

• Primarily uses major chords, even though it's about heartbreak.

Where Is My Mind - Pixies

• Alternates between major and minor chords to create an unsettling mood.

California Girls - The Beach Boys

• Despite its upbeat feel, almost 50% of the chords are minor.

Practical Application

• Understanding these chords can influence mood and tone in music.
• Learning these patterns helps in creating and understanding music.

Learning Resources

• Fender Play offers lessons on major and minor chords, scales, and musical theory.
• Sign up for a free trial for structured lessons and learn to play your favorite songs.