E♭ Sixth-Ninth Chord

Chord Tones: E♭ 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 E♭ sixth ninth chord commonly functions as the mediant (♭III) in C minor or subdominant in B♭ 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 E♭ Sixth-Ninth Chord specifically contains 5 notes: E♭, G, B♭, C, F (formula: 1-3-5-6-9). On piano, Eb-rooted chords sit on a black key with white keys nearby, and jazz pianists often find rootless Eb voicings fall naturally under the fingers. R&B, soul, gospel, and Motown music frequently use Eb chords, which provide a warm, rich harmonic bed that complements vocal melodies.

Common Progressions

The E♭ 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 E♭ 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 E♭ Sixth-Ninth Chord

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