The art of playing blues on a six-string acoustic guitar involves mastering various open tunings that unlock unique soundscapes and facilitate exploration of the instrument's harmonics and tones. This article delves into some of the most commonly used and highly effective open tunings for blues enthusiasts, providing insights that will help you discover your own personal style.
Common Open Tunings for Blues
When it comes to playing blues on a six-string acoustic guitar, several open tunings stand out as excellent choices for achieving the classic sound. One of the most widely used tunings is Open E (E-B-E-G-B-E). This tuning is favored by many musicians due to its versatility and the rich harmonic overtones it produces. It's a great starting point for those new to open tunings.
Another popular tuning is Open G (D-G-D-G-B-G), particularly favored for its use with metal resonator guitars, such as those from brands like National. This tuning invites players to explore slide techniques, making it a favorite among blues legends and slide guitarists alike. It's also encouraging to hear that Keith Richards used this tuning, further validating its use in creating iconic blues and rock tunes.
Open D (D-A-D-G-B-D) is another commonly used tuning, and is especially useful for discovering partials and exploring odd harmonics. This tuning is perfect for those who want to delve into the nuances of acoustic guitar playing. When using this tuning, keep in mind that the tension on the strings will be higher, so it may be beneficial to have a separate "beater" guitar that can withstand frequent retunings and minimal neck damage.
Benefits of Using Open Tunings
One of the key benefits of using open tunings is the ability to explore unique harmonics and melodies. For instance, the Open E tuning can be excellent for slide play, allowing players to emulate the sounds of classic blues singers like Blind Lemon Jefferson, Duane Allman, and Warren Haynes. These open tunings not only add color and depth to your sound but also provide a mental break from the standard tuning, encouraging you to experiment and innovate.
When playing in these open tunings, especially with higher string tension like in the Open D tuning, it's essential to use a suitable guitar. A steel-string acoustic with greater tension is recommended for this tuning to ensure durability and intonation. Additionally, using a separate guitar dedicated to open tunings can help prevent neck twists and intonation issues, ensuring your instrument remains in optimal condition.
Practical Tips for Slide Guitarists
Slide guitarists, in particular, can benefit from using open tunings. However, playing slide in these tunings requires careful adjustment. If you're transitioning to slide from standard tuning, you'll need to raise the action on the nut slightly. A temporary solution is a small piece of hickory, which can be used to temporarily lift the strings behind the nut. For a more permanent setup, you can use shim wood of approximately 1/16 to 1/8 inch thickness, which can be placed under the existing nut if it's removable. Secure it with a few drops of Gorilla Glue for a stable solution.
Conclusion
Exploring open tunings on a six-string acoustic guitar can greatly enrich your blues playing. By mastering Open E, Open G, and Open D, you'll be able to experiment with unique harmonics, explore the nuances of your instrument, and emulate the sounds of legendary blues musicians. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, these tunings offer a world of possibilities, enriching your musical journey and helping you discover new aspects of your guitar's potential.