Bad Company’s “Can’t Get Enough” is instantly recognizable for its raw power and iconic riff. A key component of this sound lies in Mick Ralphs’ unique guitar tuning. This article delves into the specifics of this tuning, exploring how it contributes to the song’s distinctive character and the challenges it presents.
Mick Ralphs’ “C” Tuning: CCGCEC
According to a Guitar Player interview with Mick Ralphs during a Bad Company reunion tour, the tuning for “Can’t Get Enough” is as follows:
- 6th String (Low E): Tune DOWN two whole steps to C.
- 5th String (A): Tune UP one and a half steps to C.
- 4th String (D): Tune UP two and a half steps to G.
- 3rd String (G): Tune UP two and a half steps to C.
- 2nd String (B): Tune UP two and a half steps to E.
- 1st String (High E): Tune DOWN two whole steps to C.
This results in a tuning of CCGCEC, from low to high. Although the bottom C string isn’t heavily utilized, it subtly contributes to the overall sonic texture, occasionally audible in the recording.
Playing in “C” Tuning: Familiar Shapes, Unique Sound
The beauty of this tuning lies in its familiarity. Chord shapes remain the same as in standard G tuning, but with the root now on both the bottom and top strings. This creates a powerful, resonant sound with the root note emphasized. The combination of slack outer strings and tight inner strings yields a distinctive tonal quality unlike standard tuning. Ralphs reportedly used a .009 gauge string set, though adjusting gauges might be necessary for optimal playability and to accommodate the slack low C. Using a heavier gauge on the low E and a lighter gauge on the high E can help balance the tension.
The Influence of Open Tunings
This tuning bears resemblance to open tunings used by guitarists like Jimmy Page in early Led Zeppelin recordings. It’s possible Ralphs drew inspiration from these folk-influenced tunings. The open nature of the tuning lends itself to creating a driving, rhythmic sound that perfectly complements the song’s energetic feel.
The Challenge of the Solo
While the rhythm parts are relatively straightforward in this tuning, the solo presents a significant challenge due to the tight inner strings. It’s speculated that Ralphs might have recorded the lower part of the solo in the CCGCEC tuning and then overdubbed the high harmony in standard tuning. Alternatively, Paul Rodgers may have played the harmony part. Live performances from the reunion tour show Ralphs playing only the single-note melody line without the harmony, lending credence to this theory.
Capturing the “Can’t Get Enough” Sound
For years, guitarists have attempted to replicate the unique sound of “Can’t Get Enough,” often resorting to playing in standard G tuning. However, this approach never quite captures the true essence of the song. Mick Ralphs’ innovative “C” tuning is the key to unlocking the song’s magic, creating a sound that is both powerful and instantly recognizable. While challenging to master, this tuning offers a rewarding experience for guitarists seeking to delve into the intricacies of Bad Company’s iconic sound.
