Cattails
Required String Notes:CGDGGA
Tune to Custom Tuning (CGDGGA)Tune to Custom Tuning (CGDGGA)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (CGDGGA).
Custom Tuning (CGDGGA)
±0
C
Target: 65.4 Hz
-50WAITING+50
Waiting for sound
C65
G98
D147
G196
G196
A220
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (CGDGGA)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 4 of 6 strings to play “Cattails”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | C2 | Tune down 4 semitones |
| String 5 | A2 | G2 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 4 | D3 | D3 | Leave as is |
| String 3 | G3 | G3 | Leave as is |
| String 2 | B3 | G3 | Tune down 4 semitones |
| String 1 | E4 | A3 | Tune down 7 semitones |
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
"Cattails" by Big Thief is played in Custom Tuning (CGDGGA) (CGDGGA). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 4 of 6 strings: string 6 down to C, string 5 down to G, string 2 down to G, string 1 down to A. Overall string tension drops, with the biggest change being 7 semitones down. 1270 other songs in our catalog use Custom Tuning (CGDGGA).
Looking for tabs or chords?Search Ultimate Guitar
Tunings Close to Custom Tuning (CGDGGA)
Already tuned to CGDGGA? These tunings are just one small change away.
Big Thief’s Guitar Tunings
Big Thief plays 1 of 3 songs in our catalog in Custom Tuning (CGDGGA). Most-used tunings:
- Custom Tuning (CGDGGA)CGDGGA1 song
Gear for Custom Tuning (CGDGGA)
Strings and tools that make playing "Cattails" in Custom Tuning (CGDGGA) 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 4 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
Affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
“Cattails” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Cattails" by Big Thief in?
"Cattails" is played in Custom Tuning (CGDGGA): CGDGGA, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Cattails"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down 4 semitones (E2 → C2). String 5: tune down a whole step (A2 → G2). String 2: tune down 4 semitones (B3 → G3). String 1: tune down 7 semitones (E4 → A3). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for Custom Tuning (CGDGGA)?
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 Big Thief
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Big Thief:
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (CGDGGA)
Once tuned to CGDGGA, try playing these tracks next: