Scales and progressions unique to styles of music

Question by Brendan
(Davie, Florida)

Question: Is there a certain scale or chord progression that is unique to different styles of music? And if so could you give some examples? Thank you.

Answer:

Hi Brendan,

Unless you hear every piece of music out there it's not an easy one to answer!

We can certainly identify typical traits in certain styles (e.g. jazz standards, metal's use of "exotic" scales etc.), but the harmonic qualities of a given scale or chord progression exist independently of style, which is more about the application of music.

Hope that makes sense! Comment below with any thoughts/questions.