Verbal Analysis

This Open A tuning is a very popular choice for Blues players and is featured extensively in many iconic Blues songs. Legends like Robert Johnson utilized this tuning for tracks such as "Cross Road Blues" and "Walkin' Blues," giving his sound a distinct, resonant quality. John Lee Hooker also famously employed this tuning in songs like "My First Wife Left Me" and "Bottle Up and Go," showcasing its versatility and raw power within the blues genre.

Technical Analysis

This tuning sets the open strings to E2-A2-E3-A3-C5#-E4. When strummed open, these notes form a rich A Major chord (A, C#, E). The low E (6th string) and A (5th string) provide a deep fundamental, while the E (4th string) and A (3rd string) add harmonic depth. The C# (2nd string) clearly defines the major third, and the high E (1st string) completes the chord, creating a full and resonant sound. This arrangement makes it incredibly easy to play major chords across the fretboard simply by barring all strings at any given fret. For instance, barring at the first fret yields an A# Major, the second fret a B Major, and so on. Its layout also lends itself exceptionally well to slide guitar, allowing for smooth, melodic glides while maintaining the underlying A Major harmony. Basic blues riffs and power chords are easily accessible, particularly on the lower strings, offering a strong, driving rhythm.

How to Tune (from Standard EADGBe)

• String 6 (Low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Your string should remain E2.
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Your string should remain A2.
• String 4 (D): Tune up 2 semitones. This means raising your D string to E. Your string should be E3.
• String 3 (G): Tune up 2 semitones. This means raising your G string to A. Your string should be A3.
• String 2 (B): Tune up 2 semitones. This means raising your B string to C#. Your string should be C5#.
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Your string should remain E4.

String 6: E2

String 5: A2

String 4: E3

String 3: A3

String 2: C5#

String 1: E4