The Ostrich
byLou Reed
Required String Notes:D - D - D - D - D - D
Tune to Ostrich Tuning (DDDDDD)Tuning Note Frequencies
Tune each guitar string to these exact pitch frequencies to play “The Ostrich”.
| String | Note Pitch | Exact Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| String 6 | D2 | 73.42 Hz |
| String 5 | D3 | 146.83 Hz |
| String 4 | D3 | 146.83 Hz |
| String 3 | D3 | 146.83 Hz |
| String 2 | D4 | 293.66 Hz |
| String 1 | D4 | 293.66 Hz |
Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown
The 1964 novelty single that gave ostrich tuning its name. Lou Reed tuned every string to one note, so the whole guitar sounds a relentless single-pitch drone — a technique he later carried into The Velvet Underground.
Key Chord Voicings:
All strings one note (drone)Rhythmic strumming on the drone
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More Songs by Lou Reed
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Lou Reed:
Other Songs in Ostrich Tuning (DDDDDD)
Once tuned to D - D - D - D - D - D, try playing these tracks next:
Ostrich Tuning (DDDDDD)Intermediate
D - D - D - D - D - DNo Capo