How to Tune Your Guitar for “Everlong”

So, you're itching to play "Everlong" by the Foo Fighters, but you've hit a snag with tuning your guitar just right. It's a classic track with a distinct sound, and nailing that starts with proper tuning. In this article, we'll walk through everything you need to know to get your guitar tuned like Dave Grohl's, helping you capture that iconic sound. Let's get into it!

Understanding the "Everlong" Tuning

Before we get hands-on, let's talk about the tuning itself. "Everlong" isn't played in standard tuning, so if you're used to EADGBE, you'll need to make some adjustments. The song uses what's called "Drop D" tuning. This involves tuning the low E string down a whole step to D. This small change makes a big difference, giving you that fuller, heavier sound that's perfect for rock and alternative tracks.

Drop D tuning is incredibly popular in rock and metal genres because it allows easy power chord shapes and adds depth to your riffs. If you're not familiar with it yet, don't worry—it's super easy to get the hang of, and you'll wonder why you didn't try it sooner.

Step-by-Step Guide to Tuning to Drop D

Alright, let's get those strings in order. Follow these simple steps, and you'll be ready to rock "Everlong" in no time:

• Start with Standard Tuning: Make sure your guitar is in standard tuning (EADGBE) to begin with. This makes it easier to drop the low E string precisely to D.
• Tune the Low E String to D: Play the open D string (4th string) and tune your low E string (6th string) down until it matches the pitch of the D string. You can also use a tuner if you have one handy—just lower the E string until the tuner reads D.
• Check the Pitch: Once you think you're close, play the 7th fret on the now D-tuned 6th string. It should match the open A string (5th string) pitch. Fine-tune until it sounds just right.
• Recheck All Strings: It's always a good idea to go through and make sure all your strings are still in tune after making adjustments. Sometimes tuning one string can affect the others slightly.

And there you have it! Your guitar is now in Drop D tuning, ready for "Everlong" and a whole slew of other rock tunes.

Strumming Patterns and Chord Shapes

With your guitar tuned and ready, let's talk about the strumming patterns and chord shapes that make "Everlong" so distinctive. The opening riff uses a combination of power chords and open strings, creating a rich, resonant sound that's quintessential Foo Fighters.

The main riff involves a quick alternation between D and C power chords, played with an open G string ringing out. The key here is maintaining a steady rhythm and ensuring the open strings ring clearly. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Start with a D power chord, using the open D string as the bass note.
• Move to a C power chord, keeping the open G string ringing throughout.
• Focus on a steady down-up strumming pattern to maintain the song's energy.

This might take a bit of practice to get the hang of, especially if you're new to Drop D tuning, but once you've mastered it, you'll be able to capture the song's essence beautifully.

The Importance of Timing and Dynamics

One thing that often gets overlooked when learning new songs is the importance of timing and dynamics. "Everlong" isn't just about hitting the right notes; it's also about capturing the emotion and energy of the track.

Pay attention to how the song ebbs and flows. The verses tend to be more subdued, while the chorus explodes with energy. Try to mimic this on your guitar by varying your strumming intensity. For the verses, keep your strumming light and relaxed. As you move into the chorus, increase your strumming intensity to match the song's rising energy.

Practicing with a metronome can help you nail the timing. If you don't have a physical metronome, there are plenty of apps available that can do the trick. This will not only help with "Everlong" but also improve your overall timing and rhythm.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Learning a song like "Everlong" can come with its own set of challenges. Here are a few common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Not Fully Understanding the Tuning: It's essential to understand that Drop D affects the shape of your power chords. Make sure you're adjusting your chord shapes to accommodate the new tuning.
• Strumming Too Aggressively: It's easy to get caught up in the song's energy and strum too hard, which can lead to a muddy sound. Focus on clarity and control, especially during the verses.
• Neglecting Dynamics: Remember, dynamics are as crucial as the notes themselves. Practice playing softly and gradually building up your intensity to match the song's dynamics.

By keeping these tips in mind, you'll avoid some of the common pitfalls and make your rendition of "Everlong" sound as authentic as possible.

Why Drop D Is Perfect for Rock and Metal

Drop D tuning isn't just for "Everlong." It's a favorite among rock and metal players for its versatility and power. By lowering the pitch of the low E string, you open up a world of possibilities for heavy riffs and easy power chords.

Think of bands like Tool, Rage Against the Machine, and even Metallica—they all use Drop D to achieve their signature sounds. The tuning gives you a heavier, more robust sound, which is why it's so popular in heavier genres.

And if you're into modern metal guitar, you might want to check out Riffhard. We offer lessons from some of the world's best metal guitarists, focusing on rhythm techniques that make the most of tunings like Drop D.

Adapting Drop D for Your Own Songs

Once you're comfortable with "Everlong," why not try writing your own songs in Drop D? The tuning lends itself to creative riff writing, and you might find that it inspires you to come up with some killer new ideas.

Start by experimenting with different power chord shapes and open string combinations. Try playing around with the dynamics and see how they affect the mood of what you're playing. Who knows, you might stumble upon your next great riff!

Advanced Techniques for "Everlong"

If you're ready to take your "Everlong" performance to the next level, consider incorporating some advanced techniques. For instance, try adding some palm muting to the verses for a more percussive sound, or experiment with harmonics to add some extra texture.

Also, pay attention to your picking technique. Alternate picking can help you maintain speed and clarity, especially during the faster sections of the song. Practicing these techniques will not only enhance your rendition of "Everlong" but also improve your overall guitar skills.

Remember, if you're looking for more in-depth lessons on these techniques, Riffhard offers a wealth of resources that can help you refine your skills and explore new musical horizons.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it! With your guitar tuned to Drop D and a solid understanding of the song's structure and dynamics, you're all set to tackle "Everlong" with confidence. If you're eager to dive deeper into modern metal guitar techniques, we at Riffhard have got you covered with lessons from the best in the business. Happy playing!