Cinquante Six
Required String Notes:GBDGBE
Tune to Custom Tuning (GBDGBE)Tune to Custom Tuning (GBDGBE)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (GBDGBE).
Custom Tuning (GBDGBE)
±0
G
Target: 98.0 Hz
-50WAITING+50
Waiting for sound
G98
B123
D147
G196
B247
E330
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (GBDGBE)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 2 of 6 strings to play “Cinquante Six”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | G2 | Tune up 3 semitones |
| String 5 | A2 | B2 | Tune up a whole step |
| 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: .009–.042. Some strings are tuned well above standard, so lighter strings keep tension and neck stress in check.Ernie Ball Super Slinky (.009–.042) · affiliate link
Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown
"Cinquante Six" by Ali Farka Toure is played in Custom Tuning (GBDGBE) (GBDGBE). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 2 of 6 strings: string 6 up to G, string 5 up to B. Overall string tension rises, so tune up slowly to avoid breaking strings. 1270 other songs in our catalog use Custom Tuning (GBDGBE).
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Tunings Close to Custom Tuning (GBDGBE)
Already tuned to GBDGBE? These tunings are just one small change away.
Gear for Custom Tuning (GBDGBE)
Strings and tools that make playing "Cinquante Six" in Custom Tuning (GBDGBE) easier.
Ernie Ball Super Slinky (.009–.042)
Recommended gauge .009–.042. Some strings are tuned well above standard, so lighter strings keep tension and neck stress in check.
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.
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“Cinquante Six” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Cinquante Six" by Ali Farka Toure in?
"Cinquante Six" is played in Custom Tuning (GBDGBE): GBDGBE, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Cinquante Six"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune up 3 semitones (E2 → G2). String 5: tune up a whole step (A2 → B2). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for Custom Tuning (GBDGBE)?
Use a .009–.042 set. Some strings are tuned well above standard, so lighter strings keep tension and neck stress in check.
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (GBDGBE)
Once tuned to GBDGBE, try playing these tracks next: