Don't Ask Why
Required String Notes:DADGAE
Tune to Custom Tuning (DADGAE)Tune to Custom Tuning (DADGAE)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (DADGAE).
Custom Tuning (DADGAE)
±0
D
Target: 73.4 Hz
-50WAITING+50
Waiting for sound
D73
A110
D147
G196
A220
E330
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (DADGAE)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 2 of 6 strings to play “Don't Ask Why”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | D2 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 5 | A2 | A2 | Leave as is |
| String 4 | D3 | D3 | Leave as is |
| String 3 | G3 | G3 | Leave as is |
| String 2 | B3 | A3 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 1 | E4 | E4 | Leave as is |
Recommended string gauge: .010–.046. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.Ernie Ball Regular Slinky (.010–.046) · affiliate link
Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown
"Don't Ask Why" by My Bloody Valentine is played in Custom Tuning (DADGAE) (DADGAE). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 2 of 6 strings: string 6 down to D, string 2 down to A. Overall string tension drops, with the biggest change being 2 semitones down. 1270 other songs in our catalog use Custom Tuning (DADGAE).
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Tunings Close to Custom Tuning (DADGAE)
Already tuned to DADGAE? These tunings are just one small change away.
Drop D Tuning130 songs
D - A - D - G - B - EOnly string 2 differs: B instead of A.DADGAD Celtic Tuning44 songs
D - A - D - G - A - DOnly string 1 differs: D instead of E.Nick Drake Modal (DADF#AE)13 songs
D - A - D - F# - A - EOnly string 3 differs: F# instead of G.DADEAE Tuning12 songs
D - A - D - E - A - EOnly string 3 differs: E instead of G.My Bloody Valentine’s Guitar Tunings
My Bloody Valentine plays 1 of 8 songs in our catalog in Custom Tuning (DADGAE). Most-used tunings:
- Custom Tuning (DADGAE)DADGAE1 song
Gear for Custom Tuning (DADGAE)
Strings and tools that make playing "Don't Ask Why" in Custom Tuning (DADGAE) easier.
Ernie Ball Regular Slinky (.010–.046)
Recommended gauge .010–.046. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.
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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“Don't Ask Why” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Don't Ask Why" by My Bloody Valentine in?
"Don't Ask Why" is played in Custom Tuning (DADGAE): DADGAE, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Don't Ask Why"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down a whole step (E2 → D2). String 2: tune down a whole step (B3 → A3). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for Custom Tuning (DADGAE)?
Use a .010–.046 set. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.
More Songs by My Bloody Valentine
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by My Bloody Valentine:
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (DADGAE)
Once tuned to DADGAE, try playing these tracks next: