27 Best Songs in Open D Tuning: A Definitive Guide

The open D tuning, with its resonant, earthy sound, has captivated guitarists for decades, inspiring countless iconic songs. But sifting through the vast library of music to find the best songs in open D can feel overwhelming. This list cuts through the noise, showcasing tracks that truly exemplify the tuning's unique sonic possibilities – from the bluesy grit of classic rock anthems to the delicate fingerpicking of folk masterpieces. Whether you're a seasoned guitarist looking for inspiration, a budding musician exploring new tunings, or simply a music lover appreciating the beauty of a distinct sonic palette, this curated collection will resonate. We’ve delved deep to uncover the tracks that best capture the spirit and versatility of open D, exploring everything from its rich history to its modern applications. Get ready to discover your new favorite open-D masterpiece!

27 Best Songs in Open D Tuning: A Definitive Guide
SongArtistAlbumListens
1. Loser Beck Mellow Gold 200M+
2. Even Flow Pearl Jam Ten 175M+
3. Higher Power Coldplay Music Of The Spheres 72M+
4. Drifting Andy McKee 61M+
5. Matilda alt-J 48M+
6. The Cave Mumford and Sons 47M+
7. Crash Dave Matthews Band 37M+

1. Loser (Beck)

Open D Tuning Mastery: Beck's "Loser" showcases a masterful use of open D tuning, creating a distinctive, slack-key feel that's both hypnotic and undeniably catchy.

Unconventional Rhythm: The song's unconventional rhythm and laid-back groove perfectly exemplify the unique sonic possibilities of open D, making it a prime example for aspiring players.

Genre-Bending Influence: Its blend of alternative rock, folk, and lo-fi elements, all anchored by the open D tuning, has profoundly influenced countless artists and cemented its place in music history.

Loser - Beck

2. Even Flow (Ten)

Open D Tuning Mastery: Even Flow's iconic riff is a prime example of the evocative sounds achievable with open D tuning, showcasing its resonant and spacious qualities.

Dynamic Range and Feel: The song masterfully blends powerful crescendos with quieter, more introspective sections, creating a dynamic listening experience perfectly suited to the open D tuning's expressive capabilities.

A Classic for a Reason: Its enduring popularity speaks to the effectiveness of its open D tuning foundation and its overall impact, making it a cornerstone of the genre and a must-listen for exploring the possibilities of this tuning.

Even Flow - Pearl Jam

3. Higher Power (Music Of The Spheres)

Open D Tuning Mastery: Coldplay's "Higher Power" showcases a masterful use of open D tuning, creating a rich, resonant soundscape that perfectly complements the song's anthemic quality.

Driving Rhythm & Groove: The song's driving rhythm section provides a solid foundation, making it incredibly engaging and danceable within the open D tuning framework.

Emotional Resonance: The uplifting melody and Chris Martin's soaring vocals create an emotionally resonant experience, further enhanced by the unique sonic character of the open D tuning.

Higher Power - Coldplay

4. Drifting

Masterful Open D Tuning: Drifting showcases Andy McKee's exceptional skill in utilizing the open D tuning, creating a rich and resonant soundscape.

Lyrical Instrumental Beauty: While instrumental, the song evokes a strong emotional response through its carefully crafted melodies and dynamic shifts in rhythm.

Technical Brilliance: McKee's intricate fingerstyle guitar work on "Drifting" is a testament to his technical prowess, making it a rewarding listen for both casual and experienced listeners.

Drifting - Andy McKee

5. Matilda - 2025

Open D Tuning Mastery: alt-J's "Matilda" showcases a masterful use of open D tuning, creating a rich, resonant soundscape that perfectly complements the song's melancholic yet captivating atmosphere.

Textural Depth: The interplay between the plucked acoustic guitar, layered synths, and distinctive vocals creates a textural richness that is both haunting and deeply satisfying within the open D framework.

Unique Open D Application: While many songs utilize open D for a folky feel, "Matilda" transcends genre expectations, demonstrating the tuning's versatility in crafting a unique and modern soundscape.

Matilda - alt-J

6. The Cave (Mumford and Sons)

Open D Tuning Mastery: "The Cave" showcases Mumford & Sons' expert use of open D tuning, creating a rich, resonant sound perfectly suited to the genre's folk-rock aesthetic.

Driving Rhythm and Vocals: The song's powerful, driving rhythm section, combined with Marcus Mumford's emotive vocals, creates an unforgettable listening experience within the open D framework.

Emotional Depth and Resonance: Its raw emotional vulnerability resonates deeply, making it a compelling example of how open D tuning can enhance introspective songwriting.

The Cave - Mumford and Sons

7. Crash

Open D Tuning Mastery: Crash showcases the Dave Matthews Band's masterful use of open D tuning, creating a rich, resonant soundscape that perfectly complements the song's melancholic yet uplifting melody.

Rhythmic Complexity: The interplay between the driving rhythm section and the intricate guitar work in open D creates a captivating rhythmic texture that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish.

Emotional Resonance: Crash's emotional depth, further enhanced by the open D tuning, makes it a truly moving and memorable listening experience within the context of open D tuned songs.

Crash - Dave Matthews Band

8. Open Your Eyes (Alter Bridge)

Open D Tuning Mastery: Alter Bridge's "Open Your Eyes" showcases a masterful use of open D tuning, creating a rich, resonant soundscape that perfectly complements the song's emotional depth.

Dynamic Range and Feel: The song's dynamic shifts between powerful riffs and quieter, more introspective sections are expertly handled, making for a captivating listening experience in open D.

Emotional Resonance: The combination of Myles Kennedy's soaring vocals and the open D tuning creates a powerful emotional impact, making "Open Your Eyes" a truly memorable track for fans of the tuning.

Open Your Eyes - Alter Bridge

9. She Talks to Angels

Open D Tuning Mastery: "She Talks to Angels" showcases the Black Crowes' masterful use of open D tuning, creating a rich, resonant soundscape that perfectly complements the song's melancholic beauty.

Vocal Performance: Chris Robinson's soulful vocals are particularly poignant in this open D arrangement, adding a layer of emotional depth rarely matched.

Lyrical Resonance: The song's lyrics resonate deeply with the open D tuning's slightly mournful quality, enhancing the overall emotional impact.

She Talks to Angels - The Black Crowes

10. Honky Tonk Women (The Rolling Stones - 1969)

Open D Tuning Prowess: Honky Tonk Women's iconic riff is a masterclass in open D tuning, showcasing the tuning's ability to create a raw, bluesy sound perfectly suited to the song's swagger.

Driving Rhythm and Groove: The relentless, almost primal rhythm section locks in tightly, propelling the song forward with an irresistible energy that makes it perfect for jamming.

Vocal Delivery and Vibe: Jagger's vocals are perfectly raspy and confident, adding to the song's overall attitude and making it an instant classic for guitarists who love open tunings.

Honky Tonk Women - The Rolling Stones
  • Oceans
    11

    Oceans

    Pearl Jam

    1991

  • Ivy
    12

    Ivy

    Taylor Swift

    2020

  • Bye Bye Love
    13

    Bye Bye Love

    The Everly Brothers

    1957

    The Everly Brothers

  • Sloop John B
    14

    Sloop John B

    The Beach Boys

    1966

    Pet Sounds (Original Mono & Stereo Mix)

  • Jojo
    15

    Jojo

    Boz Scaggs

    1980

  • California
    16

    California

    Joni Mitchell

    1971

  • The Gardener
    17

    The Gardener

    The Tallest Man on Earth

    2008

  • Dust My Broom
    18

    Dust My Broom

    Elmore James

    1951

  • Out of Time
    19

    Out of Time

    The Rolling Stones

    1966

  • Simple Twist of Fate
    20

    Simple Twist of Fate

    Bob Dylan

    1975

    Blood On The Tracks

  • Big Yellow Taxi
    21

    Big Yellow Taxi

    Joni Mitchell

    1970

  • Both Sides Now
    22

    Both Sides Now

    Joni Mitchell

    1969

  • Buckets of Rain
    23

    Buckets of Rain

    Bob Dylan

    1975

  • Little Martha
    24

    Little Martha

    The Allman Brothers Band

    1972

  • Shake Your Money Maker
    25

    Shake Your Money Maker

    Elmore James

    1961

  • Lovestain
    26

    Lovestain

    José González

    2003

  • Like Crying
    27

    Like Crying

    Fleetwood Mac

    1969