How to Tune from Standard to DADGAD Tuning
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 3 of 6 strings to play “Kashmir”:
| 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 | D4 | Tune down a whole step |
Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown
Jimmy Page created the hypnotic, driving riff of Kashmir in DADGAD tuning. The modal quality of the tuning blends eastern orchestral scales with rock power.
Key Chord Voicings:
Tunings Close to DADGAD Tuning
Already tuned to D - A - D - G - A - D? These tunings are just one small change away.
Led Zeppelin’s Guitar Tunings
Led Zeppelin plays 3 of 22 songs in our catalog in DADGAD Tuning. Most-used tunings:
- DADGAD Celtic TuningD - A - D - G - A - D3 songs
Gear for DADGAD Tuning
Strings and tools that make playing "Kashmir" in DADGAD Tuning 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.
D'Addario Pro-Winder (winder + cutter)
Retuning 3 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
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“Kashmir” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Kashmir" by Led Zeppelin in?
"Kashmir" is played in DADGAD Tuning: D - A - D - G - A - D, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Kashmir"?
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). String 1: tune down a whole step (E4 → D4). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for DADGAD Tuning?
Use a .010–.046 set. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.
Which other Led Zeppelin songs use this tuning?
"White Summer", "Black Mountain Side" — all in D - A - D - G - A - D, so you can play them without retuning.
More Songs by Led Zeppelin
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Led Zeppelin:
Other Songs in DADGAD Tuning
Once tuned to D - A - D - G - A - D, try playing these tracks next: