D♭ Sixth-Ninth Chord

Chord Tones: D♭ Sixth-Ninth Chord

Symbol: 6/9 — Formula: 1-3-5-6-9

Chord Notation

Roman numeral (e.g. I, IV, V) and Nashville Number notation are key-dependent. See Keys pages for chord function within specific keys.

Inversions

Harmonic Function

The D♭ sixth ninth chord commonly functions as the supertonic (♭II, Neapolitan) in C major or tonic in D♭ major. Its harmonic role varies by key — in major keys it provides stable harmonic grounding.

The 6/9 chord adds both the sixth and ninth to a major triad without a seventh. It has a rich, colorful sound with a jazz and bossa nova flavor, often used as a final tonic chord. The D♭ Sixth-Ninth Chord specifically contains 5 notes: D♭, F, A♭, B♭, E♭ (formula: 1-3-5-6-9). On piano, Db-rooted chords place the root on a black key surrounded by other black keys, and the hand naturally cups over the raised surface for smooth voice leading. Romantic piano repertoire, contemporary R&B, and cinematic underscore frequently feature Db chords for their lush, introspective warmth.

Common Progressions

The D♭ Sixth-Ninth Chord frequently appears in these progression patterns (shown in Roman numeral notation relative to key):

• I69-IVmaj7

Songs Featuring the Sixth-Ninth Chord

Well-known songs where the D♭ Sixth-Ninth Chord — or this chord type — plays a prominent role:

• Chameleon – Herbie Hancock
• Mercy Mercy Mercy – Cannonball Adderley
• Four – Miles Davis

Tuning Frequencies Across Temperaments

Frequencies shown at A=440 Hz. View full temperament data for any note.

Scales Containing the D♭ Sixth-Ninth Chord

These scales include the D♭ Sixth-Ninth Chord as a diatonic or characteristic chord: