Exploring Alternate Tunings: Drop - D (Play In the Style of A7X, RATM, and more)

Do you ever find yourself looking for a heavier sound from your axe?  Many players tune one or more of the strings on their guitar down to achieve a "lower" sound, which some feel makes the tone meaner and heavier. One of the most common alternate tunings is Drop-D.

The great thing about Drop-D is that it requires you to change the pitch of only one string. In this tuning, the low E string is tuned down one whole step to a D.  The strings, from the sixth (the one closest to you) to the first (the "highest" one), thus become D A D G B E.

For guitarists who love power chords, this tuning is a blessing. By shifting the notes on the E string up two frets, you can now play power chords with a single finger by barring. For example, to play a G5 power chord, place your finger on the 5^th fret (now the G note), make sure you are pressing down on the three lowest strings, and strum the three strings simultaneously.

Bands that have songs in Drop-D include the Foo Fighters (Everlong), Helmet (In The Meantime), Avenged Sevenfold (Nightmare, Bat Country), Rage Against the Machine (Killing In The Name Of) , Pantera (Walk), Metallica (The Thing That Should Not Be, All Nightmare Long) and Led Zeppelin (Kashmir, Moby Dick).  Don't be afraid to try out new tunings.  Always keep seeking your perfect tone.