Tuning Overview: Into the Pink

The "Into the Pink" tuning is an intriguing and unique setup for the guitar, specifically noted for making Verbena's "baby got shot" easy to play. This immediately suggests a tuning designed for specific, perhaps unconventional, harmonic textures and riff-based playing, characteristic of alternative rock.

Technical Breakdown:

• The tuning from lowest to highest string is C♯3 • F2 • C3 • F3 • A3 • C4.
• This tuning is predominantly down-tuned, with all strings dropped significantly from standard EADGBe.
• A notable feature is the formation of an F Major chord on the top five strings (F2 • C3 • F3 • A3 • C4), creating a rich, resonant open F major voicing.
• The lowest string, C♯3, introduces a distinct harmonic tension against the open F Major chord. This tritone relationship (C♯ to F) is often used to create edgy, dissonant, or leading-tone effects, perfect for driving rock riffs and unconventional harmonies.
• The presence of multiple C's (C♯3, C3, C4) and F's (F2, F3) across the tuning allows for powerful, ringing drones and harmonic layers.

Playing Potential:

• Open Chords: The most immediate benefit is the highly resonant open F Major chord available on strings 5-1. By barring across these five strings at different frets, you can easily access other major chords (e.g., 1st fret for G Major, 3rd fret for A Major, etc.).
• Dissonant Voicings: The low C♯ string provides a powerful bass note that can create unique tension against the F Major harmony, ideal for experimental or heavy textures. Think of it as a C♯ bass over an F chord, yielding sounds similar to Fmaj7#5/C♯ or an altered dominant.
• Riff-Friendly: The open chord structure makes it easy to slide into power chords and single-note riffs on the lower strings, while the upper strings provide a consistent harmonic backdrop.
• Drone & Resonance: The repeated F and C notes across octaves contribute to a full, resonant sound, excellent for sustained chords and ambient textures.

Overall, "Into the Pink" is a creatively structured tuning that offers both immediate harmonic gratification (open F Major) and sophisticated dissonant possibilities with its C♯ bass, making it well-suited for unique sonic exploration.

How to Tune: Into the Pink

To achieve the "Into the Pink" tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these string adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): From its standard E2, tune down 3 semitones to C♯3.
• String 5 (A): From its standard A2, tune down 4 semitones to F2. Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant drop. If you plan to use this tuning frequently, consider a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone.
• String 4 (D): From its standard D3, tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• String 3 (G): From its standard G3, tune down 2 semitones to F3.
• String 2 (B): From its standard B3, tune down 2 semitones to A3.
• String 1 (High E): From its standard E4, tune down 4 semitones to C4. Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant drop. If you plan to use this tuning frequently, consider a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone.

Always use a reliable tuner and tune carefully to avoid over-tightening or damaging your strings.