Drop D tuning involves lowering the sixth (low E) string of the guitar to a D note.This simple yet effective adjustment can transform the sound of your guitar, making it sound heavier, more resonant, and adding a new dimension to your playing. It’s widely used in rock, metal, folk, and even some pop music. For example, in rock and metal, the thick, powerful sound created by Drop D tuning is perfect for driving riffs and heavy chord progressions. In folk music, it can add a warm, earthy quality to fingerpicked melodies. The process of dropping D isn’t overly complicated, but it does require some knowledge of your guitar’s tuning mechanism and a bit of practice to get it just right. In the following sections, we’ll explore everything from the basics of why and how to drop D, to advanced techniques and applications.
Why Choose Drop D Tuning?
Heavier Sound
One of the primary reasons guitarists opt for Drop D tuning is the heavier sound it produces. By lowering the low E string to D, the overall tonal range of the guitar is shifted downwards. This results in a more substantial and powerful sound, especially when playing power chords. In genres like metal and hard rock, where a thick, aggressive sound is desired, Drop D tuning is a go – to. For instance, bands like Metallica often use Drop D tuning in their songs. The low D note provides a solid foundation for their heavy riffs, giving them an edge that is characteristic of the genre.
Simpler Chord Shapes
Drop D tuning simplifies certain chord shapes. In standard tuning, some chords require complex fingerings.However, in Drop D, chords like the open D chord can be played with a more straightforward finger placement.This can be particularly beneficial for beginners who are still getting to grips with chord formations.For example, the open D chord in standard tuning involves using three fingers on the second, third, and fourth strings.In Drop D, you can play a variation of the D chord with just two fingers on the third and fourth strings, making it easier to execute.
Creative Possibilities
It unlocks a world of creative possibilities.With the altered tuning, you can discover new chord progressions and melodies that are not as easily accessible in standard tuning. Songwriters often use Drop D tuning to add a unique flavor to their compositions. It allows for the creation of more dissonant or harmonious sounds depending on how the strings are combined. For example, you can create interesting drone – like effects by keeping the low D string ringing while playing melodies on the higher strings.
The Mechanics of Dropping D
Identifying the Strings
Before you start tuning, it’s crucial to correctly identify the strings on your guitar. The thickest string is the sixth string, which is the E string that we will be tuning down to D. Counting from the bottom (when the guitar is held in playing position), the strings are numbered from one (the thinnest, high E string) to six (the thickest, low E string). Make sure you have a clear understanding of which string is which to avoid tuning the wrong one.
Using a Tuner
The most accurate way to drop D is by using a guitar tuner. There are several types of tuners available, including clip – on tuners, pedal tuners, and smartphone apps. Clip-on tuners are convenient as they attach directly to the headstock of the guitar and detect the vibration of the strings. Pedal tuners are popular among live performers as they can be easily accessed with the foot. Smartphone apps, such as GuitarTuna, are a cost-effective option. To use a tuner, simply clip it onto the headstock (if it’s a clip – on tuner) or open the app on your phone. Then, pluck the low E string. The tuner will display the current pitch of the string. Slowly turn the tuning peg of the low E string counterclockwise to lower the pitch. Keep an eye on the tuner until it shows that the string is tuned to D.
Tuning by Ear
While using a tuner is the most precise method, tuning by ear is a valuable skill to have. To tune the low E string to D by ear, you first need to know what a D note sounds like. You can find a reference D note on a piano, another tuned guitar in Drop D, or even use a note – playing app on your phone. Once you have the reference D note, start plucking the low E string on your guitar and slowly turn the tuning peg counterclockwise. Listen carefully to the pitch of the string. As you lower the pitch, it will start to approach the sound of the D note. When the two pitches sound similar (the beats between them slow down and eventually disappear), the string is in tune. This method takes practice, but it can be useful in situations where you don’t have a tuner available.
Common Chords in Drop D Tuning
Drop D Chord
The Drop D chord is one of the most basic and characteristic chords in this tuning. To play it, place your index finger on the third fret of the fourth string (D string), and your ring finger on the third fret of the fifth string (A string). Keep the low D string open. This chord has a full, resonant sound and is often used as a foundation for many songs in Drop D tuning.
Power Chords
Power chords are extremely popular in Drop D tuning, especially in rock and metal. A power chord consists of a root note, a fifth interval above the root, and sometimes an octave of the root. In Drop D, for example, to play a D power chord, you can place your index finger on the fifth fret of the third string (G string) and your ring finger on the fifth fret of the fourth string (D string), while keeping the low D string open. Power chords in Drop D tuning have a thick, aggressive sound that is perfect for driving riffs.
Open Chords
Open chords also take on a different character in Drop D tuning. The open G chord, for instance, can be played in a simplified form. Place your index finger on the second fret of the third string, your middle finger on the second fret of the second string, and your ring finger on the third fret of the first string. The low D string and the open A string add a rich, full sound to the chord, making it sound more resonant compared to the standard tuning version.
Songs That Use Drop D Tuning
“Enter Sandman”-Metallica
This iconic metal song by Metallica is a classic example of the use of Drop D tuning. The heavy, driving riffs that open the song are played in Drop D. The low D string provides a deep, menacing sound that sets the tone for the entire track. The chord progressions and power chords in “Enter Sandman” are much easier to play in Drop D tuning, allowing for a more aggressive and powerful performance.
“Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me)”-Train
While not a rock or metal song, this pop – rock hit by Train also uses Drop D tuning. The tuning gives the song a warm, earthy quality. The acoustic guitar parts in “Drops of Jupiter” have a unique sound due to the Drop D tuning, adding to the overall charm and emotional depth of the song.
“Wish You Were Here”-Pink Floyd
Although Pink Floyd is known for their diverse use of tunings, “Wish You Were Here” features some sections in Drop D. The tuning helps to create a dreamy, atmospheric sound. The open strings in Drop D contribute to the spacious and melancholic feel of the song, enhancing the emotional impact of the music.
Advanced Techniques in Drop D Tuning
Tapping
Tapping is an advanced technique that can be enhanced in Drop D tuning. In tapping, you use your picking hand to tap on the fretboard to create notes. With the lower-pitched strings in Drop D, tapping can produce a more pronounced and resonant sound. For example, you can tap on the low D string and combine it with taps on the higher strings to create complex, multi – note phrases. The added depth of the low D string gives the tapped notes a more substantial feel.
Sweep Picking
Sweep picking is another technique that can be explored in Drop D tuning. It involves quickly “sweeping” the pick across multiple strings to play a series of notes. The altered string intervals in Drop D can make sweep picking more challenging but also more rewarding. You can create unique arpeggio-like patterns that take advantage of the lower D string. For instance, you can start a sweep-picking pattern on the low D string and then move up the fretboard across the other strings, creating a fast – paced, flowing sound.
Hybrid Picking
Hybrid picking, which combines elements of picking and fingerpicking, can also be adapted for Drop D tuning. The low D string can be used as a bass note while fingerpicking melodies on the higher strings. This technique allows for a greater range of sounds and textures. You can create rich, layered compositions by using the low D string to provide a rhythmic foundation while simultaneously playing intricate melodies on the upper strings.
Conclusion
Drop D tuning is a versatile and powerful tool in a guitarist’s arsenal. Whether you’re aiming for a heavier sound in rock and metal, seeking simpler chord shapes as a beginner, or exploring new creative possibilities in songwriting, Drop D tuning has something to offer. By understanding the mechanics of tuning, learning common chords, studying songs that use this tuning, and exploring advanced techniques, you can fully unlock the potential of Drop D tuning on your guitar. So, pick up your guitar, drop that low E string to D, and start exploring the rich musical landscape that this tuning has to offer.
