Tuning Overview: Endless Nameless

This distinct guitar tuning, famously associated with Nirvana's hidden track "Endless, Nameless" from the iconic Nevermind album, is a testament to experimental and raw sonic landscapes. Discovered by listeners who let the disc play out for 10 minutes after "Something in the Way," this tuning provides a gritty, dissonant, and powerfully resonant foundation, perfectly embodying the grunge aesthetic.

Technical Analysis

The "Endless Nameless" tuning sets the guitar strings to the following notes, from the thickest (6th) to the thinnest (1st):

• 6th String (Low E): A#2 (or Bb2)
• 5th String (A): G#3 (or Ab3)
• 4th String (D): D3
• 3rd String (G): G3
• 2nd String (B): B3
• 1st String (High E): E4

When compared to standard E tuning (E2 A2 D3 G3 B3 E4), the most striking changes occur on the lower strings, while the higher strings maintain their conventional pitches.

• The 6th string (Low E) is tuned to A#2, setting a very deep and somewhat unconventional root. The tuning instruction specifies a dramatic drop of 6 semitones to achieve this pitch.
• The 5th string (A) is tuned to G#3, a single semitone down from its standard A pitch. This creates a distinctive and tension-filled interval between the 6th (A#2) and 5th (G#3) strings.
• The remaining 4th (D3), 3rd (G3), 2nd (B3), and 1st (E4) strings remain at their standard pitches. This allows for familiar chord shapes and melodic patterns on the higher strings while the detuned lower strings provide an entirely new harmonic and rhythmic context.

Open Chords and Sonic Characteristics

The open strings of this tuning (A#2 G#3 D3 G3 B3 E4) do not form a conventional major or minor chord, contributing to its distinct and often dissonant character. This is typical for tunings designed for a more abstract or heavy sound, often leveraging drones and intervals for textural depth rather than traditional harmony.

However, the higher strings (D3 G3 B3 E4) essentially mimic a standard tuning setup for those four strings, allowing for familiar chord voicings and lead lines. The low A#2 and the G#3 above it create a wide, somewhat ambiguous foundation. Power chords using the 6th string (A#2) as a root will sound incredibly thick and heavy. The unique intervals, particularly the major sixth between A#2 and G#3, open up possibilities for non-standard voicings and heavy, sludgy riffs, especially when played with distortion. This tuning encourages a raw, percussive approach, favoring impactful sonic textures over intricate harmonic structures, aligning perfectly with the aggressive and unpolished sound Nirvana was known for.

How to Tune to Endless Nameless

To achieve the "Endless Nameless" tuning, follow these precise string adjustments. It's crucial to tune carefully, especially with significant semitone changes, and always use a reliable tuner.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune this string down 6 semitones to reach the target note of A#2. Caution: Tuning down 6 semitones is a substantial change. When movements exceed negative 4 or positive 4 semitones from a string's intended standard pitch, a different gauge string is generally advised to maintain optimal string tension, prevent excessive looseness, and avoid potential breakage.
• 5th String (A): Tune this string down 1 semitone to reach the target note of G#3.
• 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). This string should be D3.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). This string should be G3.
• 2nd String (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). This string should be B3.
• 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). This string should be E4.

Always double-check your tuning with an accurate tuner after making adjustments to ensure all strings are at their correct pitches.