Like My Father Said
Required String Notes:DADGDF#
Tune to Custom Tuning (DADGDF#)Tune to Custom Tuning (DADGDF#)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (DADGDF#).
Custom Tuning (DADGDF#)
±0
D
Target: 73.4 Hz
-50WAITING+50
Waiting for sound
D73
A110
D147
G196
D294
F#370
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (DADGDF#)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 3 of 6 strings to play “Like My Father Said”:
| 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 | D4 | Tune up 3 semitones |
| String 1 | E4 | F#4 | Tune up a whole step |
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
"Like My Father Said" by Gary Nock is played in Custom Tuning (DADGDF#) (DADGDF#). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 3 of 6 strings: string 6 down to D, string 2 up to D, string 1 up to F#. Some strings go down and others go up, so the tension shifts across the neck. Gary Nock uses this same tuning on 2 other songs in our catalog, so you can stay tuned and keep playing.
Looking for tabs or chords?Search Ultimate Guitar
Tunings Close to Custom Tuning (DADGDF#)
Already tuned to DADGDF#? These tunings are just one small change away.
Pink Moon Modal13 songs
C - G - C - F - C - ESame chord shapes, every string a whole step lower.Custom Tuning (DADADF#)2 songs
DADADF#Only string 3 differs: A instead of G.Custom Tuning (DADGDE)1 song
DADGDEOnly string 1 differs: E instead of F#.Custom Tuning (DADGDG)1 song
DADGDGOnly string 1 differs: G instead of F#.Gary Nock’s Guitar Tunings
Gary Nock plays 3 of 3 songs in our catalog in Custom Tuning (DADGDF#). Most-used tunings:
- Custom Tuning (DADGDF#)DADGDF#3 songs
Gear for Custom Tuning (DADGDF#)
Strings and tools that make playing "Like My Father Said" in Custom Tuning (DADGDF#) 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.
D'Addario Pro-Winder (winder + cutter)
Retuning 3 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.
“Like My Father Said” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Like My Father Said" by Gary Nock in?
"Like My Father Said" is played in Custom Tuning (DADGDF#): DADGDF#, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Like My Father Said"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down a whole step (E2 → D2). String 2: tune up 3 semitones (B3 → D4). String 1: tune up a whole step (E4 → F#4). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for Custom Tuning (DADGDF#)?
Use a .009–.042 set. Some strings are tuned well above standard, so lighter strings keep tension and neck stress in check.
Which other Gary Nock songs use this tuning?
"Butterfly", "Seasons Change" — all in DADGDF#, so you can play them without retuning.
More Songs by Gary Nock
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Gary Nock:
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (DADGDF#)
Once tuned to DADGDF#, try playing these tracks next: