Open D tuning combined with a capo on the second fret creates a distinctive sound palette that many guitarists find inspiring for songwriting and performance. This list covers some of the best songs that utilize this setup, perfect for players looking to explore rich, resonant tones with familiar chord shapes shifted by the capo. Whether you’re into blues, folk, or alternative rock, these songs showcase the versatility of open D tuning with a capo on the second fret.
“She Talks to Angels” by The Black Crowes
This classic acoustic ballad uses open D tuning with a capo on the second fret to achieve its hauntingly beautiful vibe. The capo raises the pitch, allowing Chris Robinson to sing comfortably while the guitar rings out with a warm, full resonance. It’s an excellent example of how this tuning and capo placement create a rich harmonic environment for expressive fingerpicking and strumming.
“Big Yellow Taxi” by Counting Crows
Counting Crows’ version of Joni Mitchell’s hit uses open D tuning with a capo on the second fret to add a shimmering brightness to the song’s bright, upbeat mood. The capo shifts the tonal center, making chord transitions smoother and the melody more accessible for vocal accompaniment. It’s a great song for intermediate players wanting to practice rhythm and chord dynamics in this tuning.
“No Rain” by Blind Melon
While originally played in standard tuning, many guitarists cover “No Rain” using open D tuning with a capo on the second fret to capture the jangly, open sound that complements the song’s upbeat feel. This approach emphasizes the ringing open strings and makes the iconic intro riff easier to play. The capo also allows you to sing along in the original key more comfortably.
“Only Love” by Ben Howard
Ben Howard is known for his creative use of alternate tunings, and “Only Love” is often played in open D with a capo on the second fret to achieve its warm, intimate tone. The capo shifts the pitch to suit his vocal range while the tuning enhances the song’s harmonic richness. This song is a great study in combining fingerpicking with open tuning resonance.
“Death Letter” by Son House (Covered by Many)
Son House’s “Death Letter” is a Delta blues staple often played in open D tuning. When covered with a capo on the second fret, the song gains a slightly higher pitch that suits many vocalists and adds a fresh edge to the traditional blues sound. This setup highlights the slide guitar possibilities in open D, making it a favorite for blues guitarists exploring slide techniques.
“The Stable Song” by Gregory Alan Isakov
Gregory Alan Isakov’s folk tune often employs open D tuning with a capo on the second fret to create a lush, melancholic atmosphere. The capo helps match the vocal register while the open tuning allows for rich drones and harmonic overtones. This song is ideal for players interested in subtle dynamics and folk-style fingerpicking.
“Heartbeats” by José González
Though originally played in a variant of open tuning, many guitarists adapt “Heartbeats” to open D with a capo on the second fret to replicate its intricate fingerstyle patterns. This approach simplifies some chord shapes and provides a ringing, bell-like quality to the notes. The capo placement also helps match González’s vocal pitch, making it a popular choice for covers.
“Down in the Valley” by The Head and the Heart
This indie folk track uses open D tuning with a capo on the second fret to enhance its warm, inviting sound. The capo allows for bright chord voicings while the open tuning keeps the resonance deep and full. It’s a great song for players looking to blend strumming and fingerpicking techniques within an emotionally evocative framework.
“King of the World” by First Aid Kit
Swedish folk duo First Aid Kit often uses open tunings, and “King of the World” benefits from open D tuning with a capo on the second fret to achieve its soaring harmonies and lush guitar texture. The capo placement shifts the pitch to complement their vocal range, while open D tuning provides the shimmering, open sound that defines their style. This song is perfect for players seeking to explore modern folk arrangements.
“Hollow Coves” Songs (Various)
Australian duo Hollow Coves frequently use open D tuning with a capo on the second fret across multiple songs to create their signature airy, melodic sound. This setup allows for easy chord transitions and a bright tonal palette that supports their vocal harmonies. Exploring their catalog can provide inspiration for crafting atmospheric acoustic arrangements using this tuning and capo position.
How to Choose
When selecting songs to play in open D tuning with a capo on the second fret, consider your vocal range first—this capo placement often shifts the key to suit higher or mid-range voices. Next, think about the playing style you want: fingerpicking-heavy songs like “Only Love” or strumming-driven tunes like “Big Yellow Taxi” offer different challenges and opportunities. Also, examine the genre and mood; blues songs like “Death Letter” emphasize slide and feel, while folk songs focus on harmonic richness. Finally, consider the technical difficulty and your familiarity with open D tuning shapes to ensure a rewarding learning experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why use a capo on the second fret in open D tuning?
Using a capo on the second fret raises the pitch by a whole step, allowing you to play in a higher key while maintaining the open D chord shapes and resonance.
Q: Can I use open D tuning with a capo on other frets?
Yes, but the tonal character and key will change. The second fret is popular because it suits many vocal ranges and retains the tuning’s rich sound.
Q: Is open D tuning good for slide guitar?
Absolutely. Open D tuning is one of the most common tunings for slide guitar because it forms a major chord when strummed open, making slide melodies easier to play.
Q: Do I need a special capo for open D tuning?
No special capo is required. Any standard capo will work fine on the second fret, but make sure it applies even pressure to avoid tuning issues.
Q: How do I tune my guitar to open D?
From standard tuning, tune your strings to D-A-D-F#-A-D, starting from the lowest to highest string. This creates a D major chord when played open.
Q: Can I play standard chord shapes in open D tuning with a capo?
Open D tuning changes chord shapes, but with the capo on the second fret, some familiar shapes become easier to use or modify, blending standard and open tuning techniques.
Final Thoughts
Open D tuning with a capo on the second fret opens up a world of sonic possibilities, offering a rich, resonant tone that suits various genres from blues to indie folk. The songs listed here represent a range of styles and technical challenges, providing excellent starting points for guitarists wanting to explore this tuning and capo combination. Whether you’re drawn to slide guitar, fingerpicking, or strumming, these tracks can inspire you to create your own unique sound within this versatile framework.
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