Fortunate Son Tuning: Unveiling the Guitar Tuning Used in the Iconic Song

The song “Fortunate Son” holds significant cultural and musical importance as a classic rock anthem. In this article, we will provide information on the tuning used in the song, allowing guitarists to accurately reproduce its distinctive sound.

Tuning in “Fortunate Son”

The song “Fortunate Son” by John Fogerty is played using D Standard tuning. D Standard tuning is a tuning where all the strings are tuned down a whole step from standard E tuning. This tuning gives the song its characteristic low and gritty sound.

D Standard Tuning

In D Standard tuning, the guitar strings are tuned to the following notes: D, G, C, F, A, and D. Each string is tuned down a whole step from its standard tuning pitch. This tuning provides a lower overall pitch, which contributes to the powerful and intense sound of “Fortunate Son.”

Here is a visual representation of the D Standard tuning:

[Insert diagram or visual representation of D Standard tuning]

Playing “Fortunate Son”

When playing “Fortunate Son” in D Standard tuning, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the chord progressions and riffs specific to this tuning. The song features a recognizable intro riff that heavily utilizes inverted third intervals. The main chord progression revolves around an Em7 shape, barred at the 7th fret, with additional notes played on the 4th and 2nd strings.

Experiment with the nuances of the song, paying attention to the strumming patterns and dynamics that contribute to its energetic performance. As you become comfortable with D Standard tuning, you can explore variations and embellishments to make the song your own.

Conclusion

By using D Standard tuning, guitarists can capture the authentic sound and feel of “Fortunate Son.” This tuning, with its lower pitch and distinctive chord shapes, adds to the song’s rebellious and powerful character. Whether you’re learning the song for personal enjoyment or performing it for an audience, mastering D Standard tuning will allow you to faithfully recreate the iconic sound of “Fortunate Son.”

Sources:

1. Fortunate Son Guitar Lesson – Creedence Clearwater Revival – YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiZr837rqCE)
2. Fortunate Son (John Fogerty) Guitar Lesson • Play Guitar! (https://playguitar.com/fortunate-son-john-fogerty/)
3. How to Play Fortunate Son (https://smellytele.com/how-to-play-fortunate-son/)

FAQs

What is the tuning used in “Fortunate Son”?

The tuning used in “Fortunate Son” is D Standard tuning.

What is D Standard tuning?

D Standard tuning is a tuning where all the strings on the guitar are tuned down a whole step from standard E tuning.

What are the notes for each string in D Standard tuning?

In D Standard tuning, the strings are tuned to D, G, C, F, A, and D, from low to high.

Why is D Standard tuning used in “Fortunate Son”?

D Standard tuning is used in “Fortunate Son” to achieve a lower overall pitch and give the song its characteristic gritty sound.

Are there any specific chord shapes or riffs in “Fortunate Son” that are unique to D Standard tuning?

While the main chord progression of “Fortunate Son” revolves around an Em7 shape, barred at the 7th fret, with additional notes played on the 4th and 2nd strings, the use of D Standard tuning enhances the overall feel and sound of the song.

Can I play “Fortunate Son” in standard E tuning?

Technically, you can play “Fortunate Son” in standard E tuning, but it will not sound exactly like the original recording. The distinct low and gritty sound of the song is best achieved in D Standard tuning.

How can I tune my guitar to D Standard?

To tune your guitar to D Standard, you need to lower each string by a whole step. You can use a guitar tuner or reference the notes D, G, C, F, A, and D and adjust the tension of each string accordingly.

Are there any other songs that use D Standard tuning?

Yes, D Standard tuning is commonly used in various rock and metal songs. Some examples include “Black Sabbath” by Black Sabbath, “Slither” by Velvet Revolver, and “Down in a Hole” by Alice in Chains.