Sad But True
Required String Notes:D - G - C - F - A - D
Tune to D Standard / Whole-Step DownTuning Note Frequencies
Tune each guitar string to these exact pitch frequencies to play “Sad But True”.
| String | Note Pitch | Exact Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| String 6 | D2 | 73.42 Hz |
| String 5 | G2 | 98.00 Hz |
| String 4 | C3 | 130.81 Hz |
| String 3 | F3 | 174.61 Hz |
| String 2 | A3 | 220.00 Hz |
| String 1 | D4 | 293.66 Hz |
Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown
Every string is tuned down a whole step while keeping standard intervals - D Standard, Metallica's first tuned-down recording. It is not Drop D (which lowers only the 6th string); the full-step drop gives the slow, syncopated main riff its heavy, doomy crush.
Key Chord Voicings:
D5 (0-0-2-x-x-x)Palm-muted open-D chugsBluesy D pentatonic solo
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More Songs by Metallica
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Metallica:
Other Songs in D Standard / Whole-Step Down
Once tuned to D - G - C - F - A - D, try playing these tracks next:
D Standard / Whole-Step DownIntermediate
D - G - C - F - A - DNo Capo
D Standard / Whole-Step DownIntermediate
D - G - C - F - A - DNo Capo
D Standard / Whole-Step DownIntermediate
D - G - C - F - A - DNo Capo