Writing Powerful Dorian Dad Rock in 6/8

Name: Writing Powerful Dorian Dad Rock in 6/8
Uploaded: 2025-12-04
Duration: 15 min
Channel: Jake Lizzio
Description: Dorian is capable of way more than just jazz and funk - learn how to use it for rock arrangements. Part 2 of the Riffing with Modes series.

Part of the series Riffing With Modes

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15 min Intermediate Part of a series Dec 4, 2025

Dorian is the key to some of history's best "dad rock." I tried my best to create an authentic Bob Seger / Bon Jovi / Metallica song by wielding those seven notes, and here was the result.

We'll explore the chords "in Dorian," and how it creates that wistful sound, but more importantly I focus on how to arrange Dorian chords into something that actually sounds like modern music. This means layering instruments, and even singing which I don't do often. However, this song fits right into my range.

If you are unfamiliar with Dorian in general, do check out my starter lesson on the topic.

And if you enjoyed the song, you can download it below. Guitar tabs are also available for site members.