Tune to Custom Tuning (ECGCGCE)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (ECGCGCE).
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (ECGCGCE)
Start in standard tuning (B-E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 7 of 7 strings to play “Possessions”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 7 | B1 | E2 | Tune up 5 semitones |
| String 6 | E2 | C3 | Tune up 8 semitones |
| String 5 | A2 | G3 | Tune up 10 semitones |
| String 4 | D3 | C4 | Tune up 10 semitones |
| String 3 | G3 | G4 | Tune up 12 semitones |
| String 2 | B3 | C5 | Tune up 13 semitones |
| String 1 | E4 | E5 | Tune up 12 semitones |
Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown
"Possessions" by Strapping Young Lad is played in Custom Tuning (ECGCGCE) (ECGCGCE). Starting from standard tuning (B-E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 7 of 7 strings: string 7 up to E, string 6 up to C, string 5 up to G, string 4 up to C, string 3 up to G, string 2 up to C, string 1 up to E. Overall string tension rises, so tune up slowly to avoid breaking strings. 1270 other songs in our catalog use Custom Tuning (ECGCGCE).
Strapping Young Lad’s Guitar Tunings
Strapping Young Lad plays 1 of 18 songs in our catalog in Custom Tuning (ECGCGCE). Most-used tunings:
- Custom Tuning (AAAEAE)AAAEAE4 songs
Gear for Custom Tuning (ECGCGCE)
Strings and tools that make playing "Possessions" in Custom Tuning (ECGCGCE) easier.
Ernie Ball Regular Slinky 7-String (.010–.056)
Recommended gauge .010–.056 (7-string). A dedicated 7-string set keeps the low B tight enough to stay in tune.
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 7 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
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“Possessions” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Possessions" by Strapping Young Lad in?
"Possessions" is played in Custom Tuning (ECGCGCE): ECGCGCE, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Possessions"?
Start from standard tuning (B-E-A-D-G-B-E). String 7: tune up 5 semitones (B1 → E2). String 6: tune up 8 semitones (E2 → C3). String 5: tune up 10 semitones (A2 → G3). String 4: tune up 10 semitones (D3 → C4). String 3: tune up 12 semitones (G3 → G4). String 2: tune up 13 semitones (B3 → C5). String 1: tune up 12 semitones (E4 → E5).
What string gauge should I use for Custom Tuning (ECGCGCE)?
Use a .010–.056 (7-string) set. A dedicated 7-string set keeps the low B tight enough to stay in tune.
More Songs by Strapping Young Lad
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Strapping Young Lad:
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (ECGCGCE)
Once tuned to ECGCGCE, try playing these tracks next: