Joseph LoDuca
Contemporary (1980–present)
1. Mythological
The Why
LoDuca's signature is Mixolydian modality — the major scale with a flat 7th (F natural instead of F# in G). The G→F→C progression (I–bVII–IV) is pure Mixolydian and creates that "ancient folk" quality. The flat 7th chord (F) acts as a "subtonic" rather than a leading tone, giving the music a modal, pre-functional feel that evokes antiquity. This is the harmonic basis of the Hercules/Xena sound.
2. Fierce
The Why
LoDuca's action writing for Xena uses Aeolian mode with harmonic minor inflections. The i–bVII–bVI–V pattern drives forward relentlessly — the V chord (A major) is a harmonic minor "crunch" that adds tension. The repeating i–bVII cell is directly borrowed from Greek folk dances (hasapiko). The ethnic percussion (doumbek, frame drums) and cimbalom textures give the harmony an Eastern Mediterranean authenticity.
Characteristic Scales
Harmonic Style
LoDuca's music is defined by Mixolydian modality and ethnic orchestration. The flat 7th (the defining feature of Mixolydian) gives his music an ancient, pre-Baroque quality that suited the mythological settings of Hercules and Xena. He frequently borrows from Greek, Middle Eastern, and Celtic folk traditions, using instruments like the cimbalom, dulcimer, and ethnic flutes. His harmony avoids classical functional progressions in favor of modal "color" progressions (I–bVII–IV).