What is Open C tuning?

Open C tuning uses the notes C2-G2-C3-G3-C4-E4 from lowest to highest string. It's commonly used for guitar and offers unique chord voicings and playing possibilities.

How do I tune my guitar to Open C?

To tune to Open C, adjust your strings to C2-G2-C3-G3-C4-E4 using our free online tuner. Simply allow microphone access, pluck each string, and adjust the tuning pegs until each note matches the target pitch.

What songs use Open C tuning?

Many popular songs use Open C tuning. Check our song list above to discover tracks you can play in this tuning. Artists often choose this tuning for its unique tonal qualities and easier chord formations.

Is Open C tuning good for beginners?

Open C tuning can be great for exploring new sounds. While Standard tuning is typically recommended for beginners, alternate tunings like Open C can make certain songs easier to play.

Back to Open C Tuner

Guitar

Songs in Open C Tuning

Tuning:

C2G2C3G3C4E4

Discover 8 popular songs that use Open C tuning. Filter by difficulty, genre, or search for specific songs and artists.

Showing 8 of 8 songs

BeginnerSka Punk1992

Badfish

Sublime

Classic Open C progression with reggae-influenced strumming.

Perfect for open c practice

IntermediateIndie Rock2017

Bug

Alex G

Open C tuning creates a darker, more resonant sound perfect for indie rock.

Perfect for open c practice

IntermediateAlternative Rock1996

Burden in My Hand

Soundgarden

Chris Cornell's Open C showcase with haunting arpeggios and powerful dynamics.

Perfect for open c practice

AdvancedProgressive Metal2001

Kingdom

Devin Townsend

Wall-of-sound Open C tuning with massive layered guitars and orchestral dynamics.

Perfect for open c practice

IntermediateSouthern Rock1972

Little Martha

The Allman Brothers Band

Beautiful fingerpicked piece demonstrating Open C's melodic potential.

Perfect for open c practice

AdvancedAcoustic/World2004

Ocean

John Butler Trio

12-minute acoustic masterpiece in Open C featuring percussive slapping, harmonics, and fingerpicking.

Perfect for open c practice

IntermediateGrunge1996

Pretty Noose

Soundgarden

Heavy Open C riffing with Cornell's signature vocal melodies and dissonant chord voicings.

Perfect for open c practice

AdvancedBlues2002

Thorn Tree in the Garden

Derek Trucks

Slide guitar masterpiece in Open C showcasing advanced techniques.

Perfect for open c practice

Ready to tune your guitar to Open C?

Use our free online tuner to get your guitar perfectly tuned to Open Cand start playing these amazing songs.

Tune to Open C