The Unforgettable Fire
byU2
Required String Notes:DGDDAF
Tune to Custom Tuning (DGDDAF)Tune to Custom Tuning (DGDDAF)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (DGDDAF).
Custom Tuning (DGDDAF)
±0
D
Target: 73.4 Hz
-50WAITING+50
Waiting for sound
D73
G98
D147
D147
A220
F349
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (DGDDAF)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 5 of 6 strings to play “The Unforgettable Fire”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | D2 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 5 | A2 | G2 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 4 | D3 | D3 | Leave as is |
| String 3 | G3 | D3 | Tune down 5 semitones |
| String 2 | B3 | A3 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 1 | E4 | F4 | Tune up a half step |
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
"The Unforgettable Fire" by U2 is played in Custom Tuning (DGDDAF) (DGDDAF). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 5 of 6 strings: string 6 down to D, string 5 down to G, string 3 down to D, string 2 down to A, string 1 up to F. Some strings go down and others go up, so the tension shifts across the neck. 1270 other songs in our catalog use Custom Tuning (DGDDAF).
Looking for tabs or chords?Search Ultimate Guitar
Tunings Close to Custom Tuning (DGDDAF)
Already tuned to DGDDAF? These tunings are just one small change away.
Gear for Custom Tuning (DGDDAF)
Strings and tools that make playing "The Unforgettable Fire" in Custom Tuning (DGDDAF) 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 5 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
Affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
“The Unforgettable Fire” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "The Unforgettable Fire" by U2 in?
"The Unforgettable Fire" is played in Custom Tuning (DGDDAF): DGDDAF, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "The Unforgettable Fire"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down a whole step (E2 → D2). String 5: tune down a whole step (A2 → G2). String 3: tune down 5 semitones (G3 → D3). String 2: tune down a whole step (B3 → A3). String 1: tune up a half step (E4 → F4). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for Custom Tuning (DGDDAF)?
Use a .010–.046 set. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (DGDDAF)
Once tuned to DGDDAF, try playing these tracks next: