How do I Tune a Guitar for "Iris"?

Johnny Rzeznik used a non-standard guitar tuning for "Iris."

The Goo Goo Dolls had huge commercial success with their song "Iris" from the album "Dizzy Up the Girl," which was released in 1998. Playing the song on guitar like the original version requires a specific tuning. Johnny Rzeznik, the Goo Goo Dolls' lead singer and guitarist, tuned his guitar to D-D-D-D-D-B for "Iris." You can tune your guitar with an electric tuner, or by using another method if your guitar is currently in standard tuning. Standard tuning is E-B-G-D-A-E.

Instructions

1. Tune down the sixth string to B. This is the thickest string and lowest pitch on your guitar. Since the second string is already tuned to B, you can match the pitch by picking both strings as you tune down your sixth string. Once you are done, pluck the sixth string on the 10th fret and the fifth string open. The notes should be the same.

2. Match the pitch on your fourth and fifth strings. The fourth string is already tuned to D. You will need to tune the fifth string down to D. As you loosen the fifth string, pluck both the fourth and fifth strings to match the pitch. When you are done, play the fifth string on the 12th fret and the fourth string open. This should be the same note.

3. Tune the third string, G in standard tuning, down to D. Pluck the third and fourth strings as you loosen the third string until they play the same note.

4. Tune the second string from B to D. Be careful. If you tighten the string too much, it may break. Play the third string while you tune the second string up to match the pitch. Another option is to fret the third string on the 12th fret, which will be D an octave higher. This is the same note that the second string needs to be tuned up to.

5. Match the notes on the first and second strings by tuning the first string down to D. This is only a one-step drop.

Tips & Warnings

• This process will still work if your guitar is in standard tuning, a half step down. Add a capo to the first fret when you are done tuning and start playing.

References

• All Music; Dizzy Up The Girl; Stephen Thomas Erlewine