Verbal Analysis

This tuning, a compelling variation on the classic Drop D, immediately evokes a sense of depth and harmonic intrigue. By dropping the lowest E to D, it retains the powerful, resonant bass often desired in rock, metal, and heavy blues, making single-finger power chords across the bottom three strings effortlessly accessible. However, the true character of this tuning emerges from the altered higher strings. With the second string tuned up to C and the first string down to D# (Eb), the open strings unveil a complex, slightly dissonant, and rich sonic tapestry. It moves beyond simple major or minor, lending itself to genres that appreciate sophisticated voicings, such as jazz fusion, progressive rock, and experimental music. The resulting open chord is dark, moody, and full of tension, inviting exploration of non-standard chord shapes and melodic ideas. It’s a tuning for players looking to break free from traditional patterns and discover fresh harmonic landscapes.

Technical Analysis

The open string notes for this tuning are: D2 - A2 - D3 - G3 - C4 - D#5 (Eb5). Relative to the lowest D (Root), the intervals are as follows:

• 6th String (D2): Root (R)
• 5th String (A2): Perfect 5th (P5)
• 4th String (D3): Octave (R)
• 3rd String (G3): Perfect 4th (P4)
• 2nd String (C4): Minor 7th (m7)
• 1st String (D#5/Eb5): Minor 9th / Flat 9th (m9 / b9)

This unique combination of notes forms a complex D minor 7 (add4, b9) chord in its open position. The presence of the D, A, and C provides a strong D minor 7th foundation, while the G (P4) adds a characteristic suspension or modal quality, and the D# (Eb) introduces a distinct minor 9th (or flat 9th) tension, creating a rich, jazz-influenced voicing.

Chordal Opportunities and Shapes:

• Power Chords: The lower three strings (D-A-D) remain in a power chord configuration, allowing for easy access to root-fifth-octave power chords by barring any fret on the 6th, 5th, and 4th strings. For example, a G5 power chord can be played by barring the 5th fret.
• Open Chord Voicing: The open strings themselves form a rich Dm7(add4, b9) chord, which can be used as a drone or a starting point for complex arpeggios.
• Minor 3rd Interval: The interval between the 2nd string (C) and 1st string (D#) is a minor 3rd. This compact interval can be exploited for bluesy double-stops or tight, dissonant voicings.
• New Chord Shapes: Standard major and minor chord shapes will require re-learning due to the altered 2nd and 1st strings. However, this opens up possibilities for fresh voicings and encourages creative fingerings not typically found in standard tuning. Experimenting with triad shapes on the G-C-D# (Eb) strings will yield unique sounds.

How to Tune Your Guitar

To achieve the "Drop D Minor 7 (add4, b9)" tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to A2.
• 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to D3.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to G3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune up 1 semitones to C4.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 1 semitones to D#5.