How to Tune from Standard to DADEAE Tuning

Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 3 of 6 strings to play “still”:

StringStandardTargetWhat to do
String 6E2D2Tune down a whole step
String 5A2A2Leave as is
String 4D3D3Leave as is
String 3G3E3Tune down 3 semitones
String 2B3A3Tune down a whole step
String 1E4E4Leave 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

"still" by Hillsong is played in DADEAE Tuning (D - A - D - E - A - E). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 3 of 6 strings: string 6 down to D, string 3 down to E, string 2 down to A. Overall string tension drops, with the biggest change being 3 semitones down. 11 other songs in our catalog use DADEAE Tuning.

Looking for tabs or chords?Search Ultimate Guitar

Tunings Close to DADEAE Tuning

Already tuned to D - A - D - E - A - E? These tunings are just one small change away.

Gear for DADEAE Tuning

Strings and tools that make playing "still" in DADEAE Tuning 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.

View strings

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.

View tuner

D'Addario Pro-Winder (winder + cutter)

Retuning 3 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.

View winder

Affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

“still” Tuning FAQ

What tuning is "still" by Hillsong in?

"still" is played in DADEAE Tuning: D - A - D - E - A - E, from the lowest to the highest string.

How do I tune my guitar to play "still"?

Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down a whole step (E2 → D2). String 3: tune down 3 semitones (G3 → E3). String 2: tune down a whole step (B3 → A3). Leave the other strings as they are.

What string gauge should I use for DADEAE Tuning?

Use a .010–.046 set. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.

Other Songs in DADEAE Tuning

Once tuned to D - A - D - E - A - E, try playing these tracks next:

DADEAE TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - E - A - ENo Capo
DADEAE TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - E - A - ENo Capo
DADEAE TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - E - A - ENo Capo
DADEAE TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - E - A - ENo Capo
DADEAE TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - E - A - ENo Capo
DADEAE TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - E - A - ENo Capo
DADEAE TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - E - A - ENo Capo
DADEAE TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - E - A - ENo Capo