McCormick
Required String Notes:DADGCF
Tune to Custom Tuning (DADGCF)Tune to Custom Tuning (DADGCF)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (DADGCF).
Custom Tuning (DADGCF)
±0
D
Target: 73.4 Hz
-50WAITING+50
Waiting for sound
D73
A110
D147
G196
C262
F349
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (DADGCF)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 3 of 6 strings to play “McCormick”:
| 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 | C4 | Tune up a half step |
| String 1 | E4 | F4 | Tune up a half step |
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
"McCormick" by Alex de Grassi is played in Custom Tuning (DADGCF) (DADGCF). 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 C, string 1 up to F. Some strings go down and others go up, so the tension shifts across the neck. Alex de Grassi uses this same tuning on 1 other song in our catalog, so you can stay tuned and keep playing.
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Tunings Close to Custom Tuning (DADGCF)
Already tuned to DADGCF? These tunings are just one small change away.
Custom Tuning (DADGCD)4 songs
DADGCDOnly string 1 differs: D instead of F.All Fourths (EADGCF)3 songs
E - A - D - G - C - FOnly string 6 differs: E instead of D.Custom Tuning (DGDGCF)2 songs
DGDGCFOnly string 5 differs: G instead of A.Custom Tuning (DADGBF)2 songs
DADGBFOnly string 2 differs: B instead of C.Alex de Grassi’s Guitar Tunings
Alex de Grassi plays 2 of 5 songs in our catalog in Custom Tuning (DADGCF). Most-used tunings:
- Custom Tuning (DADGCF)DADGCF2 songs
Gear for Custom Tuning (DADGCF)
Strings and tools that make playing "McCormick" in Custom Tuning (DADGCF) 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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“McCormick” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "McCormick" by Alex de Grassi in?
"McCormick" is played in Custom Tuning (DADGCF): DADGCF, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "McCormick"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down a whole step (E2 → D2). String 2: tune up a half step (B3 → C4). String 1: tune up a half step (E4 → F4). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for Custom Tuning (DADGCF)?
Use a .010–.046 set. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.
Which other Alex de Grassi songs use this tuning?
"Heavy Feet" — all in DADGCF, so you can play them without retuning.
More Songs by Alex de Grassi
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Alex de Grassi:
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (DADGCF)
Once tuned to DADGCF, try playing these tracks next: