A# Bebop Major Guitar Scale
Guitar scale in DADGAD tuning — fretboard diagram
A# Bebop Major in DADGAD — Notes and Intervals
The A# Bebop Major scale is a classic swing tool that introduces a chromatic link between the fifth and sixth degrees. On Guitar, its notes are A#, C, D, D#, F, E##, G, A. It is essential for creating the flowing, endless melodic lines characteristic of the traditional bebop era. Commonly used in Jazz, Swing, Bebop. Notable players include Wes Montgomery, Barney Kessel, Kenny Burrell. Use over Maj7, Maj6 chords. Essential for the smooth, flowing lines of traditional swing and bebop over major harmony.
Notes: A#, C, D, D#, F, E##, G, A
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3M, 4P, 5P, 5A, 6M, 7M
Degrees: 1 2 3 4 5 #6 7 8
Formula: W-W-H-W-H-H-W-H
Number of notes: 8
Tuning: DADGAD (D-A-D-G-A-D)
About DADGAD Tuning
DADGAD tuning creates an open Dsus4 chord when strummed open, producing a hauntingly beautiful, droning sound that has become synonymous with Celtic folk music and modern acoustic songwriting. The tuning's natural resonance and overtones make even simple fingerpicking patterns sound rich and complex.
Popularized by Davey Graham in the 1960s and later championed by Pierre Bensusan and Jimmy Page, DADGAD has become one of the most beloved alternate tunings for acoustic guitarists. Its suspended quality — neither clearly major nor minor — creates an ethereal, meditative atmosphere that invites exploration. The tuning excels at creating drone-based arrangements where open strings ring against fretted notes.
Notable artists: Pierre Bensusan, Jimmy Page, Andy McKee, Davey Graham, Laurence Juber
Best for: Celtic folk, acoustic songwriting, drone-based fingerpicking, and meditative compositions
Musical Character
Adds a chromatic link between the 5th and 6th degrees of the major scale, creating the flowing, endless melodic lines that define the swing era.
Chord Progressions Using This Scale
- I – vi – IV – V (50s Doo-Wop)Pop / Rock — Nostalgia