Sandy
byAlex G
Required String Notes:DADF#BE
Tune to Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)Tune to Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (DADF#BE).
Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)
±0
D
Target: 73.4 Hz
-50WAITING+50
Waiting for sound
D73
A110
D147
F#185
B247
E330
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 2 of 6 strings to play “Sandy”:
| 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 | F#3 | Tune down a half step |
| String 2 | B3 | B3 | Leave as is |
| String 1 | E4 | E4 | Leave as is |
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
"Sandy" by Alex G is played in Custom Tuning (DADF#BE) (DADF#BE). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 2 of 6 strings: string 6 down to D, string 3 down to F#. Overall string tension drops, with the biggest change being 2 semitones down. Alex G 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 (DADF#BE)
Already tuned to DADF#BE? These tunings are just one small change away.
Drop D Tuning130 songs
D - A - D - G - B - EOnly string 3 differs: G instead of F#.Nick Drake Modal (DADF#AE)13 songs
D - A - D - F# - A - EOnly string 2 differs: A instead of B.Lute / Renaissance Tuning12 songs
E - A - D - F# - B - EOnly string 6 differs: E instead of D.Custom Tuning (DADABE)12 songs
DADABEOnly string 3 differs: A instead of F#.Alex G’s Guitar Tunings
Alex G plays 2 of 5 songs in our catalog in Custom Tuning (DADF#BE). Most-used tunings:
- Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)DADF#BE2 songs
Gear for Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)
Strings and tools that make playing "Sandy" in Custom Tuning (DADF#BE) 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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“Sandy” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Sandy" by Alex G in?
"Sandy" is played in Custom Tuning (DADF#BE): DADF#BE, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Sandy"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down a whole step (E2 → D2). String 3: tune down a half step (G3 → F#3). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)?
Use a .010–.046 set. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.
Which other Alex G songs use this tuning?
"Snot" — all in DADF#BE, so you can play them without retuning.
More Songs by Alex G
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Alex G:
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)
Once tuned to DADF#BE, try playing these tracks next: