Like Knives
Required String Notes:C - G - D - G - B - E
Tune to CGDGBE TuningHow to Tune from Standard to CGDGBE Tuning
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 2 of 6 strings to play “Like Knives”:
| 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 | 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
"Like Knives" by City & Colour is played in CGDGBE Tuning (C - G - D - G - B - E). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 2 of 6 strings: string 6 down to C, string 5 down to G. Overall string tension drops, with the biggest change being 4 semitones down. 18 other songs in our catalog use CGDGBE Tuning.
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Tunings Close to CGDGBE Tuning
Already tuned to C - G - D - G - B - E? These tunings are just one small change away.
DGDGBE Tuning (Open G6)17 songs
D - G - D - G - B - EOnly string 6 differs: D instead of C.Neon Drop C Tuning13 songs
C - A - D - G - B - EOnly string 5 differs: A instead of G.Custom Tuning (BF#C#F#A#D#)7 songs
BF#C#F#A#D#Same chord shapes, every string a half step lower.Custom Tuning (CGCGBE)6 songs
CGCGBEOnly string 4 differs: C instead of D.Gear for CGDGBE Tuning
Strings and tools that make playing "Like Knives" in CGDGBE 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 2 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
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“Like Knives” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Like Knives" by City & Colour in?
"Like Knives" is played in CGDGBE Tuning: C - G - D - G - B - E, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Like Knives"?
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). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for CGDGBE Tuning?
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 City & Colour
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by City & Colour:
DGDGBE Tuning (Open G6)Intermediate
D - G - D - G - B - ENo Capo
Other Songs in CGDGBE Tuning
Once tuned to C - G - D - G - B - E, try playing these tracks next: