Verbal and Technical Analysis

This distinctive tuning, named "Open C 7sus4," gained prominence through its use in Ben Howard's acclaimed song, "Only Love." It crafts a resonant and evocative sound, characterized by its suspended seventh quality that can evoke feelings of melancholy, introspection, or spaciousness.

Technically, the open strings are tuned to A#2, F2, C3, G3, G3, C4. When strummed without fretting, these notes coalesce into a C7sus4 chord (C, F, G, B♭). The low A# (B♭) provides a deep, rich minor seventh, while the F acts as the suspended fourth, creating tension and color. The doubling of the G (the perfect fifth) on the 3rd and 2nd strings adds significant thickness and sustain, giving the chord a full and harmonically complex texture. The C4 on the highest string completes the chord with a bright, clear top voice. This configuration makes it ideal for atmospheric fingerpicking, expansive open strumming, and creating intricate harmonic textures.

Given its open C7sus4 structure, standard chord shapes will need adaptation. However, this tuning simplifies playing other X7sus4 chords by simply barring across the fretboard. Subtle alterations, such as fretting a single note, can also easily resolve the suspended fourth or minor seventh to create entirely new and compelling voicings. The deep bass notes and high treble create a wide sonic landscape for exploration.

How to Tune

Transitioning to "Open C 7sus4" from standard E Standard tuning involves significant changes to most strings. Please proceed with caution, paying close attention to string tension, as large downward movements can affect string integrity and intonation.

• 6th String (Low E) to A#2: Tune down 6 semitones. This is a substantial drop. For optimal tension and to prevent potential issues, a heavier gauge string is advised for sustained use in this tuning.
• 5th String (A) to F2: Tune down 4 semitones. This is a notable drop. For optimal tension and to prevent potential issues, a heavier gauge string is advised for sustained use in this tuning.
• 4th String (D) to C3: Tune down 2 semitones.
• 3rd String (G) to G3: Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 2nd String (B) to G3: Tune down 4 semitones. This is a notable drop. For optimal tension and to prevent potential issues, a heavier gauge string is advised for sustained use in this tuning.
• 1st String (High E) to C4: Tune down 4 semitones. This is a notable drop. For optimal tension and to prevent potential issues, a heavier gauge string is advised for sustained use in this tuning.

When string movements involve tuning down 4 or more semitones, it's often advisable to consider a heavier string gauge. This helps maintain appropriate string tension, which is crucial for good intonation, sustain, and playability, while also reducing the risk of string breakage or excessive slackness.

6th String: A#2

5th String: F2

4th String: C3

3rd String: G3

2nd String: G3

1st String: C4