How Do I Tune a Guitar to Different Songs?
- 1). For "Drop D" tuning, frequently used in heavy metal and blues, lower the sixth string (the low E string) down to a D by turning its tuning peg. It should sound just like the fourth string (D). Although the sixth string's sound will be an octave lower, the pitch on the two strings is the same.
- 2). For "Open D" tuning, used by artists like Joni Mitchell, start with "Drop D" tuning, and lower your third string (the G string) so it matches the fourth fret of the fourth string (the D string). Lower the second string (the B string) so it matches the note at the third fret of the third string (the G string). Then drop the tuning of the first string (the high E string) so it matches the note on the fifth fret of the second string (the B string).
- 3). For "DADGAD" tuning, made famous in Led Zeppelin's "Kashmir," go back to "Drop D" tuning, then tune the second string (the B string) down to A. Pluck the string in conjunction with the fifth open string (the A string) to make sure the tone is right. Then tune down the first string (the high E string) to D and compare the note with the open fourth string (the D string).
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