Welcome to the CFCF G#C Tuning, a distinctive open tuning specifically crafted for Jon Gomm's captivating cover of "Ain't Nobody." This tuning provides a unique harmonic landscape, moving significantly away from standard guitar tuning to unlock new sonic possibilities perfect for percussive fingerstyle and intricate arrangements.

Verbal Analysis

This tuning immediately strikes with its deep, resonant foundation of C and F across multiple octaves. The lowest four strings (C-F-C-F) establish a strong, almost drone-like quality, suggesting a C suspended 4th chord or an F power chord. This deep, open sound is characteristic of tunings designed for melodic bass lines and rich, sustained textures.

The most intriguing aspect is the juxtaposition of the high G#4 on the second string and the C4 on the first. This G# introduces a significant tension or color: relative to the low C, it functions as an augmented fourth or minor sixth, creating an ethereal or slightly dissonant character that begs for specific melodic resolution or exploration. If viewed against the F, it serves as a major third, hinting at an F major tonality, though the surrounding C notes heavily anchor the sound. The overall feel is one of rich complexity, deep resonance, and a hint of melancholic beauty, perfectly suited for the intricate, percussive arrangements that Jon Gomm is known for. Standard chord shapes will largely be unusable, encouraging the player to discover new voicings and melodic patterns inherent to the tuning itself.

Technical Analysis

The tuning consists of the notes: C2 - F2 - C3 - F3 - G#4 - C4 (from low to high string).

• The open strings present an interesting harmonic structure: primarily C and F notes, with a prominent G# on the second string.
• There are strong octaves (C2-C3-C4) and perfect fourths (C2-F2, C3-F3) creating a powerful, open resonance.
• The interval from the 3rd string (F3) to the 2nd string (G#4) is a Major 3rd.
• The interval from the 2nd string (G#4) to the 1st string (C4) is a Minor 3rd. This creates a very specific melodic fragment that can be exploited.
• The open C-F-C-F-G#-C configuration suggests a complex chord. Without the G#, it would be a C suspended 4th chord (C-F-C-F). With the G#, it leans towards an F minor feel (F-G#-C, where G# acts as Ab) or a C augmented 5th with an added 4th. This ambiguity opens up unique compositional avenues.

How to Tune

This tuning involves significant drops from standard EADGBe tuning. Please proceed carefully and ensure your guitar's intonation is checked after tuning, as large changes can affect neck relief. When tuning down, always detune below the target note and then tune up to it to ensure stability.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones to C2.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 4 semitones to F2.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 2 semitones to F3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 3 semitones to G#4.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 4 semitones to C4.

Important String Gauge Note: Tuning strings down by 4 or more semitones, or up by 4 or more semitones, can put unusual stress on your strings and guitar. For movements exceeding negative 4 or positive 4 semitones, we generally advise considering a different gauge string to maintain optimal tension and tone. In this tuning, the 6th, 5th, and 1st strings all undergo a 4-semitone drop, making this recommendation particularly relevant for those strings to ensure good playability and prevent potential buzzing or intonation issues.