This unique tuning, famously developed and utilized by Kurt Cobain of Nirvana, takes its name from the band's debut single, "Love Buzz." It's a cornerstone of the raw, powerful, and often dissonant sound that defined the grunge era.

Technical Analysis

The Love Buzz tuning reconfigures the guitar from standard E-A-D-G-B-E to D-A-D-G-B-F. Let's break down the changes from standard tuning:

• The 6th string (low E) is tuned down two semitones to D2. This immediately provides a powerful, deep bass foundation similar to Drop D tuning.
• The 5th (A2), 4th (D3), 3rd (G3), and 2nd (B3) strings remain at their standard pitches, preserving some familiarity in the mid-range.
• The most distinctive and character-defining change occurs on the 1st string (high E), which is tuned up one semitone to F4.

The open string combination D2-A2-D3-G3-B3-F4 creates a fascinating harmonic landscape. While the lowest three strings (D-A-D) form a strong D power chord, the addition of G, B, and particularly the F on the highest string prevents the formation of simple major or minor open chords. The intervals from the root D (D-F being a minor third, D-G a perfect fourth, D-B a major sixth) suggest a complex, suspended, and often dark tonality. This characteristic dissonance is key to its application in grunge music.

Verbal Analysis and Potential Chords

Love Buzz tuning is ideal for players seeking a heavy, driving sound with a distinctive edge. The low D-A-D configuration makes it effortless to play powerful D5 chords by simply barring the lowest three strings. This also translates well to movable power chords across the fretboard on the lower strings, offering that signature thick, resonant sound.

However, the raised F on the high E string encourages experimentation rather than relying on conventional open chord shapes. Standard major or minor chord voicings will sound altered, often yielding suspended, dissonant, or minor-leaning harmonies. This makes it perfect for crafting unique riffs, melodic lines, and textural parts that stand out. It naturally lends itself to a less polished, more raw and expressive style of playing, allowing for both crushing low-end power and shimmering, unconventional high-end timbres.

Tuning Notes

Below are the notes for each string in Love Buzz tuning:

• 6th String (Lowest): D2
• 5th String: A2
• 4th String: D3
• 3rd String: G3
• 2nd String: B3
• 1st String (Highest): F4

How to Tune Your Guitar to Love Buzz

To achieve the Love Buzz tuning, start from standard E-A-D-G-B-E tuning and follow these instructions for each string:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change to A2 (0 semitones).
• 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change to D3 (0 semitones).
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change to G3 (0 semitones).
• 2nd String (B): Keep as is; no change to B3 (0 semitones).
• 1st String (High E): Tune up 1 semitone to F4.

Important Note: All string movements for this tuning are minor (within 4 semitones up or down). However, always be mindful of your guitar's string gauge and neck tension when making any tuning changes, especially if you plan to keep a guitar in this tuning for extended periods.