The FAGFAG tuning is a unique and somewhat unconventional guitar setup that creatively repeats the F-A-G sequence across its six strings, resulting in the notes F2 A2 G3 F3 A3 G4. This pattern creates a distinctively open and resonant sound, with a strong emphasis on the suspended quality of an Fsus2 chord (F-G-A) spread across the instrument. The repetition of F and A at different octaves offers excellent opportunities for drone-based playing and rich harmonic textures.

While not conforming to standard major or minor chord voicings, the FAGFAG tuning encourages players to explore new sonic territories. Open strumming will yield an intriguing, bright, and slightly dissonant sound that can be surprisingly musical. Due to the recurring interval structure, finding new chord shapes might involve discovering repeating patterns across the fretboard, making it a fertile ground for inventive fingerstyle and rhythmic playing. Chords like an open Fsus2 (F, G, A) are naturally present, and simple inversions or partial voicings of this idea will be readily available. The unique intervals also open doors to fresh melodic phrasing and lead lines.

This tuning was originally submitted by Stanzii back in 2010, playfully suggesting it might have been created purely for fun. And here at GTDB, we absolutely embrace fun! If you happen to be one of the rare trailblazers who has explored the sonic landscapes of FAGFAG, we'd love to hear your insights.

How to Tune to FAGFAG:

When tuning your guitar to FAGFAG, carefully adjust each string according to the following instructions:

• Low E String (6th String): Tune up 1 semitone from E2 to F2.
• A String (5th String): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) from A2.
• D String (4th String): Tune up 5 semitones from D3 to G3. Please exercise extreme caution with this significant tension increase. For sustained use, a heavier gauge string is strongly recommended to prevent string breakage or potential neck damage.
• G String (3rd String): Tune down 2 semitones from G3 to F3.
• B String (2nd String): Tune down 2 semitones from B3 to A3.
• High E String (1st String): Tune up 3 semitones from E4 to G4.

Always tune slowly and check your intonation after making significant changes to ensure optimal playability.

6th String: F2

5th String: A2

4th String: G3

3rd String: F3

2nd String: A3

1st String: G4