This unique guitar tuning is specifically tailored for "Running Up That Hill" by Kate Bush, offering a distinctive sonic landscape that deviates significantly from standard tuning. It features several dropped strings and one raised string, creating a rich and somewhat ethereal palette ideal for the song's melancholic and driving atmosphere. The substantial adjustments to string tension hint at a desire for specific tonal qualities and extended sustain, characteristic of the song's production.

Technical Analysis:

The open strings are tuned to C2 - G3# - C3 - D4# - C4 - D5# (from low E to high E). This creates an intriguing and complex open voicing. Examining the pitches:

• The fundamental notes present are C, D# (enharmonically Eb), and G#. This combination suggests a complex harmonic framework, leaning towards either a C augmented triad (C-E-G#) with an Eb substitution, or a C minor triad (C-Eb-G) with an augmented fifth (G#).
• The prevalence of C notes (C2, C3, C4) across the tuning provides a strong, resonant drone foundation.
• The D# (Eb) notes (D4#, D5#) add a distinct minor third or bluesy flavor against the root C, while the G3# introduces an augmented quality, creating tension and color characteristic of the original track.
• While traditional major or minor open chords are not readily available, the tuning is ripe for creating expansive, atmospheric voicings and drone-based textures. Sliding shapes or partial chords utilizing the open strings will yield unique harmonies. For instance, open string combinations can imply C minor augmented 5th chords (C-Eb-G#) or complex suspended sonorities, reflecting the song's unique harmony.

How to Tune:

To achieve this unique tuning from standard E-A-D-G-B-E (low to high):

• Low E String (6th String): Tune down 4 semitones to C2. (Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant change; consider a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone.)
• A String (5th String): Tune down 1 semitone to G3#.
• D String (4th String): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• G String (3rd String): Tune down 4 semitones to D4#. (Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant change; consider a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone.)
• B String (2nd String): Tune up 1 semitone to C4.
• High E String (1st String): Tune down 1 semitone to D5#.

Always tune carefully, especially when making large adjustments to string tension. It's advisable to check intonation after significant tuning changes.

Here are the specific notes for each string, from the lowest (6th) to the highest (1st):

• 6th String (Low E): C2
• 5th String (A): G3#
• 4th String (D): C3
• 3rd String (G): D4#
• 2nd String (B): C4
• 1st String (High E): D5#