Formula: 1, ♭3, 4, ♭5, 5, ♭6, 7
In this post, we’re looking at a 7-note scale that expands on the familiar minor blues scale, but with a few added twists that give it a unique flavor.
The notes in this scale are: E, G, A, B♭, B, C, D♯.
The structure is: 1, ♭3, 4, ♭5, 5, ♭6, 7.
At its core, this system strongly leans into a minor blues feel, but with added tension and color. One of the most distinctive features is the presence of both B♭ (♭5) and B (5), which is typical of the blues scale. But what sets it apart is the addition of the major 7th (D♯) — a note that normally clashes with the minor 7th (D), yet adds brightness and harmonic tension when used creatively.
This scale includes several usable chords:
- E minor (tonic)
- A minor 7 (iv7)
- B7 (no 5) (dominant function)
- C major 7 and C7 (color and turnaround options)
What’s also interesting is that this scale contains the entire E blues scale, with just one variation — the 7th replaces the minor 7th. That alone gives it a more hybrid minor-major sound, which is useful for jazz, fusion, or expressive soloing.
There’s also a blues scale implied from the 4th degree (A), resembling the A minor blues scale — except it’s missing the perfect 4th from that root.
Overall, this scale is great for improvisation and composition in styles where minor tonality meets dominant and major tensions. I’m calling it the Blues Scale Major 7th ♭13 for now, based on its most defining features.
🎧 Audio Example
Here’s a short audio sketch written using the Blues Scale Major 7th ♭13. It’s a rough demo meant to give you a feel for how the scale sounds in context — especially how it blends minor blues tones with dominant and major color.
📄 PDF Breakdown
For a full harmonic analysis of this scale — including triads, 7th chords (with and without 5ths), and interval breakdowns — you can download the scale summary below.
📥 Download the Blues Scale Major 7th ♭13 Analysis PDF