Sparrow and the Medicine
Required String Notes:CADGBE
Tune to Custom Tuning (CADGBE)Tune to Custom Tuning (CADGBE)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (CADGBE).
Custom Tuning (CADGBE)
±0
C
Target: 65.4 Hz
-50WAITING+50
Waiting for sound
C65
A110
D147
G196
B247
E330
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (CADGBE)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 1 of 6 strings to play “Sparrow and the Medicine”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | C2 | Tune down 4 semitones |
| 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 | 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
"Sparrow and the Medicine" by Tallest Man omn Earth is played in Custom Tuning (CADGBE) (CADGBE). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 1 of 6 strings: string 6 down to C. Overall string tension drops, with the biggest change being 4 semitones down. 1270 other songs in our catalog use Custom Tuning (CADGBE).
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Tunings Close to Custom Tuning (CADGBE)
Already tuned to CADGBE? These tunings are just one small change away.
Standard E241 songs
E - A - D - G - B - EOnly string 6 differs: E instead of C.Drop D Tuning130 songs
D - A - D - G - B - EOnly string 6 differs: D instead of C.CGDGBE Tuning19 songs
C - G - D - G - B - EOnly string 5 differs: G instead of A.AADGBE Tuning19 songs
A - A - D - G - B - EOnly string 6 differs: A instead of C.Gear for Custom Tuning (CADGBE)
Strings and tools that make playing "Sparrow and the Medicine" in Custom Tuning (CADGBE) 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.
D'Addario Pro-Winder (winder + cutter)
Retuning 1 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
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“Sparrow and the Medicine” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Sparrow and the Medicine" by Tallest Man omn Earth in?
"Sparrow and the Medicine" is played in Custom Tuning (CADGBE): CADGBE, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Sparrow and the Medicine"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down 4 semitones (E2 → C2). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for Custom Tuning (CADGBE)?
Use a .010–.046 set. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (CADGBE)
Once tuned to CADGBE, try playing these tracks next:
Custom Tuning (F#A#C#F#A#F#)Intermediate
F#A#C#F#A#F#No Capo