Tuning Overview

This unique Guitar tuning, officially known as Boyce Avenue Umbrella Cover Tuning, is specifically designed for Boyce Avenue's rendition of Rihanna's hit song "Umbrella".

Verbal Analysis

This tuning creates a rich, open sound centered around C# and D#. The open strings — C# G# D# G# D# D# — form an open C#sus2 chord (C#, D#, G#), providing an immediate full and resonant voicing. This makes strumming an open C#sus2 chord effortless, creating a dream-like, melancholic, or uplifting atmosphere depending on the context. The repetition of D# on the top three strings acts as a drone, allowing for melodic lines to be played over a consistent harmonic foundation.

Because of the open C#sus2, many common chord shapes will need to be re-learned or adapted. However, simple two-note power chords (5ths) can be easily formed on the lower strings (e.g., C#5 on the 6th string, G#5 on the 5th string). The high D# drone will naturally complement any melodic playing in C# minor or major scales, particularly favoring passages that utilize the D# note.

Technical Analysis

• The tuning consists of the notes: C3#, G3#, D4#, G4#, D4#, D5#.
• Intervals relative to the lowest C#:
  • String 6 (C#): Root
  • String 5 (G#): Perfect 5th
  • String 4 (D#): Major 9th (or Major 2nd)
  • String 3 (G#): Octave of Perfect 5th
  • String 2 (D#): Octave of Major 9th (or Major 2nd)
  • String 1 (D#): Another Octave of Major 9th (or Major 2nd)
• This configuration creates a stacked open C#sus2 chord (C# - G# - D# - G# - D# - D#).
• The presence of three D# notes on the higher strings creates a strong, shimmering drone effect, adding considerable resonance to the overall sound.

How to Tune

To achieve the Boyce Avenue Umbrella Cover Tuning from standard EADGBe tuning, follow these string adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 3 semitones.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 1 semitone.
• String 4 (D): Tune up 1 semitone.
• String 3 (G): Tune up 1 semitone.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 8 semitones. Caution: Tuning down 8 semitones is a significant change. For optimal playability and string longevity, considering a different gauge string for this position is strongly advised.
• String 1 (High e): Tune down 1 semitone.

Always tune carefully and use a reliable tuner to ensure accuracy and prevent string breakage.

String 6 (Low C#): C3#

String 5 (G#): G3#

String 4 (D#): D4#

String 3 (G#): G4#

String 2 (D#): D4#

String 1 (High D#): D5#