Dorian vs. Mixolydian: Which Mode Should You Use in a Blues Solo?

Dorian vs. Mixolydian: Which Mode Should You Use in a Blues Solo?

When it comes to soloing over blues, most guitarists start with the pentatonic scale — and rightly so. It’s powerful, expressive, and easy to play. But what if you’re ready to go deeper? What if you want your solos to sound more colorful, more intentional, and more musical?

That’s where Dorian and Mixolydian come in.

In this post, I’ll break down what these two modes actually are, how they sound, and when you should use them in a blues solo. I’ll also show you how I personally approach this in real-world playing — no theory gatekeeping, just practical tools for making music.

What Are Dorian and Mixolydian Modes?

Let’s strip away the jargon and keep it simple.

• Dorian mode is like a minor scale with a raised 6th.

• Mixolydian mode is like a major scale with a lowered 7th.

Here’s how they look in A (since we all love A blues):

A Dorian:

A – B – C – D – E – F# – G
➡️ Minor sound with a slightly brighter twist.

A Mixolydian:

A – B – C# – D – E – F# – G
➡️ Major/bluesy sound with a laid-back, funky feel.

Both have the note G — the b7 — which is what makes them sound “bluesy.”

So Which One Should You Use?

The short answer is: It depends on the vibe you want — and the chords you’re playing over.

Let’s break it down:

Use Dorian when:

• You’re playing over a minor blues (Am – Dm – E7)

• You want a darker, more soulful solo

• The chord progression includes a minor IV chord (like Dm in Am blues)

Pro tip: That raised 6th (F# in A Dorian) gives you a melodic edge without making things sound too bright or “happy.”

Use Mixolydian when:

• You’re playing over a dominant 7 blues (A7 – D7 – E7)

• You want a funky, major-flavored solo

• The song is more upbeat, rock, or Texas-style blues

Pro tip: The major 3rd (C# in A Mixolydian) adds swagger and melodic confidence.

What Does It Sound Like?

Here’s how they compare over a typical A7 groove:

• A Minor Pentatonic: Raw, bluesy, classic

• A Dorian: Smooth, jazzy, introspective

• A Mixolydian: Bold, funky, melodic

Try this: Play an A7 vamp and alternate between A Minor Pentatonic, A Dorian, and A Mixolydian. Listen to how each changes the feel of your solo.

How I Use These Modes in Real Playing

As a session player, I’ve learned that the best solos usually come from reacting to the rhythm section and the chords underneath. Here’s how I approach it:

• On a slow minor blues: I lean into A Dorian, using that F# to create melodic movement and tension.

• On a bright shuffle or funk groove: I love A Mixolydian — that C# just pops over an A7 chord.

• When in doubt: I mix them with pentatonics and use chord tones to keep things grounded.

Modal playing isn’t about showing off theory — it’s about making your solos sound more intentional and musical.

Quick Jam Tip: Blend the Two

Sometimes, the best approach isn’t choosing one mode — it’s blending both.

Start your solo in Dorian, then shift to Mixolydian during the turnaround or a major IV chord. It adds narrative to your playing — like telling a story with mood changes.

Want More Tools Like This?

If you found this helpful, check out my FREE Theory eBook to grasp other areas of music theory and improve your improvisation further! Grab it here.

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Final Thoughts

Dorian vs. Mixolydian isn’t about right or wrong — it’s about sound, feel, and context. Try both. Blend them. Let your ear lead the way, not the theory book.

Got questions or want a demo of how I use these modes in a real solo? Leave a comment or send me a message — I love hearing from players on the journey.