This is the distinctive tuning used for the American Football song "But the regrets are killing me." Known for its intricate and often melancholic sound, this tuning opens up unique harmonic possibilities ideal for fingerpicked arpeggios and atmospheric textures, characteristic of the band's emo/math rock style.

Compared to standard EADGBe tuning, the low E, A, B, and high E strings remain unchanged. The most significant alterations occur on the middle strings: the 4th string is tuned down one semitone from D to C#4, and the 3rd string is tuned up one semitone from G to G#4. The resulting open string notes are E2 A2 C#4 G#4 B3 E4.

When strummed openly, these notes (E, A, C#, G#, B) create a rich, layered chord that can be interpreted as an E major chord with added 4th (A) and 6th (C#), often referred to as an Emaj6/11 or Eadd4add6. This is not a conventional open chord, providing a unique harmonic landscape. The wide interval between A2 and C#4 (a major third spanning two octaves) and the specific placement of the C# and G# facilitate open, ringing arpeggios. The tuning naturally lends itself to voicings that feature major tonalities mixed with suspensions, perfect for creating the intricate and emotionally resonant soundscapes found in American Football's music. Players will find that familiar chord shapes are altered, encouraging exploration of new fingerings and melodic patterns.

How to Tune for "But the regrets are killing me"

• 6th String (Low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string remains E2.
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string remains A2.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 1 semitone. The string moves from D to C#4.
• 3rd String (G): Tune up 1 semitone. The string moves from G to G#4.
• 2nd String (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string remains B3.
• 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string remains E4.

Note: All string movements are within safe ranges for standard guitar string gauges. Always tune carefully and check string tension.

6th String: E2

5th String: A2

4th String: C#4

3rd String: G#4

2nd String: B3

1st String: E4