How Metallica Nothing Else Matters Became a Rock Anthem
Metallica is one of the most influential and successful heavy metal bands ever. Their self-titled fifth album, also known as the Black Album, is their best-selling record, with over 30 million copies sold worldwide.
One of the songs from that album, Nothing Else Matters, has become a rock anthem that transcends genres and generations.
But what is the story behind this song? How did it come to be, and what does it mean to the band and its fans? This article will explore the origins, lyrics, and legacy of Metallica’s Nothing Else Matters.
The Origins of Nothing Else Matters
Nothing Else Matters was written by Metallica’s lead singer and rhythm guitarist, James Hetfield, in 1990.
He was on the phone with his girlfriend at the time, who was in Los Angeles while he was on tour in Europe. He started playing his guitar with one hand while holding the phone with the other.
He recorded what he played on a cassette tape and later developed it into a song.
Hetfield initially intended the song to be a personal ballad, not a Metallica song. He was reluctant to share it with the rest of the band as he felt it was too soft and vulnerable for their image.
However, he eventually played it to drummer Lars Ulrich, who convinced him to include it on the Black Album.
The song was produced by Bob Rock, who helped Metallica achieve a more polished and mainstream sound.
The song features Hetfield’s acoustic guitar and vocals, Kirk Hammett’s electric guitar solo, Jason Newsted’s bass, and Ulrich’s drums.
It also features a harmonious arrangement by Michael Kamen, who later collaborated with Metallica on their live album S&M.
The Lyrics of Nothing Else Matters
The lyrics of Nothing Else Matters reflect Hetfield’s feelings of being away from his loved ones and his trust in their bond.
He expresses his devotion and loyalty and his disregard for what others think or do. He also affirms his confidence and independence and his openness to new experiences.
The chorus of the song repeats the phrase “nothing else matters,” which emphasizes the main theme of the song. The song also ends with the line “No, nothing else matters“, which suggests a sense of closure and resolution.
Some of the most memorable lines from the song are:
- No matter how far, it’s so close. It couldn’t be more authentic. never losing faith in who we are. Nothing else matters, either.
- Never let myself be this exposed. We own life and we live it how we choose. I don’t just speak all these words. Nothing else matters, either.
- I look for trust, and I find it in you. For us, something fresh every day / Be receptive to alternative viewpoints. Nothing else matters, either.
- Never cared for what they do / Never cared for what they know / But I know
The Legacy of Nothing Else Matters
Nothing Else Matters was the third single released from the Black Album in 1992. It peaked at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 6 on the UK Singles Chart.
It also succeeded in numerous other countries, including Australia, Canada, Germany, and Sweden.
The song received critical acclaim and was praised for its emotional depth and musical diversity. It also attracted a wider audience for Metallica, as it appealed to fans of different genres, such as rock, pop, and classical.
The song became a staple of Metallica’s live shows and was often performed with an orchestra or a guest artist.
The song has also been covered by many artists, such as Apocalyptica, Avril Lavigne, Bif Naked, Lissie, Miley Cyrus, Shakira, and Staind.
It has also been featured in various media, such as films, TV shows, video games, and commercials.
Nothing Else Matters is considered one of Metallica’s best and most iconic songs. It is a tribute to the band and its members, who have overcome many challenges and changes in their career, and have remained true to themselves and their fans.
It is also a tribute to the fans, who have supported and followed the band through thick and thin, and have found meaning and inspiration in their music.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nothing Else Matters
What is the meaning of Nothing Else Matters?
Nothing Else Matters is a song about being loyal and faithful to the people you love, and being confident and independent in your choices and beliefs.
It is also a song about living on your terms and being open to new experiences and perspectives.
Who wrote Nothing Else Matters?
Nothing Else Matters was written by James Hetfield, Metallica’s lead singer and rhythm guitarist. He wrote the song while he was on the phone with his girlfriend, who was in Los Angeles while he was on tour in Europe.
He later shared the song with the rest of the band, and they decided to include it on their fifth album, the Black Album.
When was Nothing Else Matters released?
Nothing Else Matters was released as the third single from the Black Album in 1992.
The Black Album was released in 1991 and was Metallica’s first album to feature producer Bob Rock, who helped them achieve a more polished and mainstream sound.
How popular is Nothing Else Matters?
Nothing Else Matters is one of Metallica’s most popular and successful songs.
It reached number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and 6 on the UK Singles Chart. It also charted in several other countries, such as Australia, Canada, Germany, and Sweden.
It has been streamed over a billion times on Spotify and has over a billion views on YouTube. Many artists have also covered it, featuring it in various media.
