My Iron Lung
Required String Notes:EGDGBD
Tune to Custom Tuning (EGDGBD)Tune to Custom Tuning (EGDGBD)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (EGDGBD).
Custom Tuning (EGDGBD)
±0
E
Target: 82.4 Hz
-50WAITING+50
Waiting for sound
E82
G98
D147
G196
B247
D294
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (EGDGBD)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 2 of 6 strings to play “My Iron Lung”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | E2 | Leave as is |
| 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 | D4 | Tune down a whole 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
"My Iron Lung" by Radiohead is played in Custom Tuning (EGDGBD) (EGDGBD). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 2 of 6 strings: string 5 down to G, string 1 down to D. Overall string tension drops, with the biggest change being 2 semitones down. 1270 other songs in our catalog use Custom Tuning (EGDGBD).
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Tunings Close to Custom Tuning (EGDGBD)
Already tuned to EGDGBD? These tunings are just one small change away.
Open G Tuning59 songs
D - G - D - G - B - DOnly string 6 differs: D instead of E.Custom Tuning (EADGBD)11 songs
EADGBDOnly string 5 differs: A instead of G.Custom Tuning (EGDGBE)6 songs
EGDGBEOnly string 1 differs: E instead of D.Custom Tuning (GGDGBD)6 songs
GGDGBDOnly string 6 differs: G instead of E.Radiohead’s Guitar Tunings
Radiohead plays 1 of 14 songs in our catalog in Custom Tuning (EGDGBD). Most-used tunings:
Gear for Custom Tuning (EGDGBD)
Strings and tools that make playing "My Iron Lung" in Custom Tuning (EGDGBD) 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.
Affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
“My Iron Lung” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "My Iron Lung" by Radiohead in?
"My Iron Lung" is played in Custom Tuning (EGDGBD): EGDGBD, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "My Iron Lung"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 5: tune down a whole step (A2 → G2). String 1: tune down a whole step (E4 → D4). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for Custom Tuning (EGDGBD)?
Use a .010–.046 set. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.
More Songs by Radiohead
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Radiohead:
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (EGDGBD)
Once tuned to EGDGBD, try playing these tracks next:
Custom Tuning (CADGBE)Intermediate
CADGBENo Capo