Boris
byMelvins
Required String Notes:A - A - D - G - B - E
Tune to AADGBE TuningHow 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 “Boris”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | A1 | Tune down 7 semitones |
| String 5 | A2 | A2 | Leave as is |
| String 4 | D3 | D3 | Leave as is |
| String 3 | G3 | G3 | Leave as is |
| String 2 | B3 | B3 | Leave as is |
| String 1 | E4 | E4 | Leave 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
"Boris" by Melvins 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. Melvins uses this same tuning on 1 other song in our catalog, so you can stay tuned and keep playing.
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Tunings Close to AADGBE Tuning
Already tuned to A - A - D - G - B - E? These tunings are just one small change away.
Standard E241 songs
E - A - D - G - B - EOnly string 6 differs: E instead of A.Drop D Tuning130 songs
D - A - D - G - B - EOnly string 6 differs: D instead of A.Neon Drop C Tuning13 songs
C - A - D - G - B - EOnly string 6 differs: C instead of A.Custom Tuning (BADGBE)9 songs
BADGBEOnly string 6 differs: B instead of A.Melvins’s Guitar Tunings
Melvins plays 2 of 3 songs in our catalog in AADGBE Tuning. Most-used tunings:
- AADGBE TuningA - A - D - G - B - E2 songs
Gear for AADGBE Tuning
Strings and tools that make playing "Boris" 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.
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.
D'Addario Pro-Winder (winder + cutter)
Retuning 1 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
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“Boris” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Boris" by Melvins in?
"Boris" 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 "Boris"?
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.
Which other Melvins songs use this tuning?
"Dog Island" — all in A - A - D - G - B - E, so you can play them without retuning.
More Songs by Melvins
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Melvins:
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