Verbal Analysis

This unique tuning, famously used by Ben Howard for his track 'I Forget Where We Were', transforms your guitar into a deeply resonant, almost piano-like instrument. It's characterized by its incredibly low fundamental notes and a rich, layered harmonic structure. The tuning evokes a melancholic yet expansive sound, ideal for intricate fingerstyle, atmospheric soundscapes, and powerful, open strumming. The significant drops on the 4th and 3rd strings contribute to a remarkably loose feel and a strong, lingering sustain, creating a distinct drone quality that is both haunting and beautiful. It encourages a new approach to the fretboard, moving away from standard chord shapes towards more open and ringing voicings.

Technical Analysis

The tuning lays out as C2 G2 G2 C3 A3 D4 (from thickest to thinnest string). This configuration presents several key features:

• Root Note: The tuning is firmly rooted in C, with a powerful C2 on the lowest string.
• Drone Elements: The presence of two G2s (5th and 4th strings) and two C notes (C2 on 6th, C3 on 3rd string) creates an immensely rich and sustained drone, especially in the low register. This doubling of notes provides exceptional harmonic depth and resonance.
• Open Chord: Strumming all open strings produces a complex and beautiful cluster of notes: C, G, A, D. This can be accurately described as a Cadd6add9 (no 3rd) chord. Built on a strong C-G-C drone, the absence of the major third (E) gives it a slightly ambiguous, open quality, while the added 6th (A) and 9th (D) provide a rich, ethereal texture common in Ben Howard's music.
• Intervals: The intervals between strings are C2-G2 (Perfect 5th), G2-G2 (Unison), G2-C3 (Perfect 4th), C3-A3 (Major 6th), A3-D4 (Perfect 4th). The Major 6th between the 3rd and 2nd string is particularly notable, contributing to the unique character of the open chord.
• Fretboard Reimagined: Standard chord shapes will not translate directly to this tuning. Players will find themselves exploring new fingerings, often utilizing open strings to create resonant harmonies. Power chords on the lower strings will sound exceptionally full due to the low register and doubled notes. Simple two-finger shapes can yield surprisingly complex and evocative voicings.

This tuning is a fantastic choice for those looking to expand their sonic palette, offering a sound that is both deeply familiar and refreshingly new.

How to Tune (from Standard EADGBe)

To achieve the 'Ben Howard's I Forget Where We Were Tuning (CGGCAD)', you will need to adjust each string as follows:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones from E2 to C2. (Caution: Tuning changes exceeding 4 semitones (up or down) often warrant a different string gauge for optimal tension and tone. While tuning down by 4 is generally manageable, it will result in notably looser string tension.)
• 5th String (A): Tune down 2 semitones from A2 to G2.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 7 semitones from D3 to G2. (Caution: Tuning down 7 semitones is a very significant change. The string will be very loose and may require a heavier gauge for optimal tension and tone. Take care to ensure the string doesn't bottom out in the nut.)
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 7 semitones from G3 to C3. (Caution: Tuning down 7 semitones is a very significant change. The string will be very loose and may require a heavier gauge for optimal tension and tone. Take care to ensure the string doesn't bottom out in the nut.)
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 2 semitones from B3 to A3.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 2 semitones from E4 to D4.

Always tune carefully, checking the pitch with a reliable tuner. Due to the extreme changes on the 4th and 3rd strings, you might consider using a heavier gauge set for this tuning to maintain playability and intonation.