Guy Clark open capo tuning delivers a relaxed, open D flavor while preserving standard tuning fingerings, making it a favorite among songwriters who want an easy yet colorful voicings.
By using an open D tuning with a partial capo, you unlock drones, ringing open strings, and a signature Clark sound that works beautifully for folk, country, and acoustic storytelling.
| Tuning Name | Standard Notation | Capo Position | Feel & Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open D | D A D F# A D | None | Full open chord, rich drones, slide-friendly |
| Guy Clark Open E Capo | E B E G# B E | 2nd fret (Open E shape) | Open warmth in a higher register, easy chord shapes |
| Standard with Partial Capo | E A D G B E | 2nd fret, 3 strings muted | Hybrid voicings, ringing doubles, Clark-esque color |
| Nashville Tuning (High Strung) | E A D G B E | None or capo 3 | Jangly texture, studio-friendly sparkle |
Understanding Guy Clark Open E Capo Tuning
The Guy Clark open E capo tuning is rooted in open D tuning but played with a capo at the second fret using an open E shape. This shifts the strings to E B E G# B E, giving you the resonance of open strings along with easy major chord shapes.
Because the intervals remain the same as open D, you can use familiar chord grips while enjoying a brighter, louder acoustic presence that suits rhythm work and delicate fingerpicking alike.
How the Tuning Sounds
With open strings ringing on E, B, and high E, the tuning produces a warm double-stop drone that highlights melodies and fills naturally. This texture is a staple in the songwriting style associated with Guy Clark and similar Texas troubadours.
Standard Notation and Chord Shapes
Musically, the tuning is written in the key of E major, but the fingerings match open D shapes shifted up two frets. That means you can play D, G, A, and minor shapes in familiar fret positions while actually sounding E, A, and B.
Below are common moveable chord forms in this tuning, showing how open-position grips translate into standard notation at the second fret.
| Chord (Open D Shape) | Fret for E Key | Actual Sound | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| D | 2nd fret | E | Root, I chord in the key |
| G | 4th fret | A | IV chord, smooth transitions |
| A | 5th fret | B | V chord, strong resolution |
| Em | 7th fret | C#m | vi chord, poignant passages |
Tuning and String Setup
To reach the Guy Clark open E capo tuning precisely, start with standard E tuning and raise the whole guitar up two frets by adding a capo. If you prefer to avoid capo tension, retune directly to E B E G# B E using an accurate tuner.
Use medium or light gauge strings to maintain comfortable tension, and consider a setup that adjusts the intonation for the higher pitch. This keeps chords in tune up the neck and reduces buzz on open strings.
String Gauges to Consider
Many players choose 11–52 or 12–53 sets for balanced action and clear tone in this tuning. Heavier gauges can offer fuller tone but require more finger strength, especially for barre chords based on open D shapes.
Right Hand and Rhythm Techniques
Open strings create natural sustain, so strumming patterns that emphasize downbeats on the bass strings highlight the drone effect. Try alternating bass notes with treble pulses to weave intricate patterns that showcase the tuning’s shimmer.
Fingerstyle players often focus on thumb patterns on the lower strings while the fingers dance across the trebles, using the open ringing tones as harmonic glue between melody notes.
Practical Tips for Mastery
- Tune carefully to E B E G# B E with an electronic tuner or by matching harmonics.
- Check intonation after adding the capo, especially on the higher frets.
- Learn moveable chord shapes from open D and apply them at the second fret.
- Experiment with thumb-lead patterns to emphasize the open bass drones.
- Use light or medium strings for comfortable playing and reduced fatigue.
FAQ
Reader questions
Can I use a capo on an already open-tuned guitar without retuning?
Yes, placing a capo at the second fret on a guitar tuned to open D produces the Guy Clark open E capo tuning, giving you open E voicings without retuning each time.
Will my guitar neck be stressed by this tuning?
Most steel-string acoustics handle the tension of open E capo tuning well, but ensure your truss rod is adjusted for the extra string pressure and that the action is set to prevent high fret buzz.
How do I switch back to standard tuning quickly?
Remove the capo and either loosen to standard pitch or retune directly down to E A D G B E, depending on whether you want to preserve string life or reset your setup.
What songs best showcase this tuning?
Listen to classic Guy Clark cuts and similar Texas folk tracks where the guitar acts as both rhythm instrument and melodic voice, using open-string drones to underline storytelling phrases.