How to Tune from Standard to AADGBE Tuning

Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 1 of 6 strings to play “Bangers + Mash”:

StringStandardTargetWhat to do
String 6E2A1Tune down 7 semitones
String 5A2A2Leave as is
String 4D3D3Leave as is
String 3G3G3Leave as is
String 2B3B3Leave as is
String 1E4E4Leave as is
Recommended string gauge: .011–.054. The bass end is slackened noticeably; a slightly heavier set keeps it tight without a full setup change.Ernie Ball Beefy Slinky (.011–.054) · affiliate link

Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown

"Bangers + Mash" by Radiohead is played in AADGBE Tuning (A - A - D - G - B - E). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 1 of 6 strings: string 6 down to A. Overall string tension drops, with the biggest change being 7 semitones down. 18 other songs in our catalog use AADGBE Tuning.

Looking for tabs or chords?Search Ultimate Guitar

Tunings Close to AADGBE Tuning

Already tuned to A - A - D - G - B - E? These tunings are just one small change away.

Radiohead’s Guitar Tunings

Radiohead plays 1 of 14 songs in our catalog in AADGBE Tuning. Most-used tunings:

Gear for AADGBE Tuning

Strings and tools that make playing "Bangers + Mash" in AADGBE Tuning easier.

Ernie Ball Beefy Slinky (.011–.054)

Recommended gauge .011–.054. The bass end is slackened noticeably; a slightly heavier set keeps it tight without a full setup change.

View strings

D'Addario Universal Micro Headstock Tuner

A headstock tuner makes switching in and out of this tuning quick, even on stage or without a mic.

View tuner

D'Addario Pro-Winder (winder + cutter)

Retuning 1 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.

View winder

Affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

“Bangers + Mash” Tuning FAQ

What tuning is "Bangers + Mash" by Radiohead in?

"Bangers + Mash" is played in AADGBE Tuning: A - A - D - G - B - E, from the lowest to the highest string.

How do I tune my guitar to play "Bangers + Mash"?

Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down 7 semitones (E2 → A1). Leave the other strings as they are.

What string gauge should I use for AADGBE Tuning?

Use a .011–.054 set. The bass end is slackened noticeably; a slightly heavier set keeps it tight without a full setup change.

More Songs by Radiohead

Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Radiohead:

View all 14 songs
Standard E TuningBeginner
E - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
EADGAE TuningIntermediate
E - A - D - G - A - ENo Capo
Custom Tuning (DADGCD)Intermediate
DADGCDNo Capo
DADAC#E TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - A - C# - ENo Capo

Other Songs in AADGBE Tuning

Once tuned to A - A - D - G - B - E, try playing these tracks next:

AADGBE TuningIntermediate
A - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
AADGBE TuningIntermediate
A - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
AADGBE TuningIntermediate
A - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
AADGBE TuningIntermediate
A - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
AADGBE TuningIntermediate
A - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
AADGBE TuningIntermediate
A - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
AADGBE TuningIntermediate
A - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
AADGBE TuningIntermediate
A - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo