Rape me
byNirvana
Required String Notes:DADGBF
Tune to Custom Tuning (DADGBF)Tune to Custom Tuning (DADGBF)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (DADGBF).
Custom Tuning (DADGBF)
±0
D
Target: 73.4 Hz
-50WAITING+50
Waiting for sound
D73
A110
D147
G196
B247
F349
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (DADGBF)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 2 of 6 strings to play “Rape me”:
| 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 | B3 | Leave as is |
| 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
"Rape me" by Nirvana is played in Custom Tuning (DADGBF) (DADGBF). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 2 of 6 strings: string 6 down to D, string 1 up to F. Some strings go down and others go up, so the tension shifts across the neck. Nirvana 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 (DADGBF)
Already tuned to DADGBF? These tunings are just one small change away.
Drop D Tuning130 songs
D - A - D - G - B - EOnly string 1 differs: E instead of F.Double Drop D Tuning14 songs
D - A - D - G - B - DOnly string 1 differs: D instead of F.Custom Tuning (DADGCF)4 songs
DADGCFOnly string 2 differs: C instead of B.Custom Tuning (DADGBB)2 songs
DADGBBOnly string 1 differs: B instead of F.Nirvana’s Guitar Tunings
Nirvana plays 2 of 14 songs in our catalog in Custom Tuning (DADGBF). Most-used tunings:
- Custom Tuning (DADGBF)DADGBF2 songs
Gear for Custom Tuning (DADGBF)
Strings and tools that make playing "Rape me" in Custom Tuning (DADGBF) 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.
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“Rape me” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Rape me" by Nirvana in?
"Rape me" is played in Custom Tuning (DADGBF): DADGBF, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Rape me"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down a whole step (E2 → D2). 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 (DADGBF)?
Use a .010–.046 set. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.
Which other Nirvana songs use this tuning?
"Love Buzz" — all in DADGBF, so you can play them without retuning.
More Songs by Nirvana
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Nirvana:
Half-Step Down (Eb Tuning)Beginner
Eb - Ab - Db - Gb - Bb - EbNo Capo
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (DADGBF)
Once tuned to DADGBF, try playing these tracks next: