Exploring Alternate Guitar Tunings: DGDGDB and More

As a beginner guitar player, you might have heard about the 'standard' tuning of EADGBE (E-A-D-G-B-E), but you've decided to explore DGDGDB instead. This tuning, while not as commonly used as the standard, can offer unique benefits and challenges. Let's delve into why you might choose to tune your guitar this way and how it compares to other alternate tunings.

Understanding DGDGDB Tuning

DGDGDB is indeed an alternate tuning for guitars. This tuning is structured as follows:

6th string: D 5th string: G 4th string: D 3rd string: G 2nd string: B 1st string: D

With this tuning, you can achieve a unique sound that is often utilized in folk rock and blues genres. It allows for easy power chords and facilitates certain fingerpicking patterns and open chord shapes, making it a versatile option for your guitar playing journey.

Adapting to DGDGDB Tuning

While you may enjoy the sound of DGDGDB, remember that not all songs will work perfectly in this tuning. Some songs may require the standard tuning EADGBE or other alternate tunings. Therefore, having the ability to switch between tunings as you progress in your playing is important.

Other Alternate Tunings

Another common alternate tuning involves tuning down the entire guitar by a whole step, resulting in DGDGDB. This tuning not only suits your voice but is also easier on your fingers. It's also worth noting that many bands use F tuning (GBDGBD) for certain songs, as evidenced by groups like The Beatles.

Challenges and Benefits of DGDGDB Tuning

When you choose to tune to DGDGDB, you will notice that standard chord shapes won't work the same way. As a beginner, you may struggle to find the correct alternate shapes to match this tuning. However, this can be an exciting challenge that promotes your musical growth.

While DGDGDB offers certain advantages, it also presents some challenges. The wide interval between the D and B on the high strings can make melodic playing difficult. Therefore, a more commonly used open G tuning (DGDGBD) might be a better choice for you. This tuning, while similar to the one you're using, allows for easier 6-string barre chords and soloing.

Popular Open G Tunings

An open G tuning (DGDGBD) is a widely popular alternate tuning that creates a similar sound to DGDGDB but with additional benefits. It is similar to standard banjo tuning gDGBD. This tuning is particularly useful in genres like Hawaiian "slack key" playing, slide guitar, and rock, as it makes playing pleasing barre chords with just one finger or a bottleneck slide very easy.

One well-known song that prominently features the open G tuning is "Angie" by The Rolling Stones. Keith Richards, the guitarist, favored this tuning because it allowed him to play barre chords with just one finger. This made it easier to achieve the desired sound for the song.

Conclusion

While DGDGDB tuning offers unique benefits and a distinctive sound, it is not as commonly used as the standard tuning or other popular alternate tunings. Exploring different tunings can enhance your playing experience and open up new musical possibilities. It's important to recognize that each tuning has its own set of challenges and advantages, and the choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and musical goals.