We have a collection of 18 arrangements for Metallica - Nothing Else Matters
How did "Nothing Else Matters" become one of Metallica's most iconic ballads despite departing from their traditional thrash metal style? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Metallica: The Definitive Biography
"Nothing Else Matters" is one of Metallica's most iconic songs, and there are several interesting facts related to its creation, meaning, and impact:
Songwriting and Composition: "Nothing Else Matters" was written by Metallica's lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, James Hetfield, and the lead guitarist, Kirk Hammett. It was one of the few Metallica songs where Hetfield shared the songwriting credits with another band member.
Acoustic Beginning: The song originally began as a personal and emotional acoustic guitar riff that Hetfield had written while he was on a phone call. The song's initial inspiration came from missing his girlfriend while on tour.
Lyricism: The lyrics of "Nothing Else Matters" delve into themes of vulnerability, trust, and the challenges of maintaining relationships amidst the turmoil of life on the road. This emotional depth resonated with many fans.
Black Album: The song is featured on Metallica's self-titled fifth studio album, often referred to as the "Black Album," which was released in 1991. The album marked a significant shift in Metallica's musical style, leaning more towards a mainstream rock sound.
Producer's Influence: The producer of the "Black Album," Bob Rock, played a crucial role in shaping the sound of "Nothing Else Matters." He encouraged the band to explore a more melodic and introspective direction, resulting in the song's distinct blend of heavy and emotional elements.
Orchestral Version: Metallica collaborated with the San Francisco Symphony to perform an orchestral version of "Nothing Else Matters" for their live album "S&M" (Symphony & Metallica), released in 1999. The orchestral arrangement added a new dimension to the song, showcasing its versatility.
Commercial Success: "Nothing Else Matters" was not initially released as a single but still received significant radio airplay. Despite this, the song became one of Metallica's most popular and enduring tracks. It has been covered by various artists and is often performed by the band at their concerts.
Crossover Appeal: The song's accessible melody and emotional lyrics helped Metallica attract a broader audience beyond their traditional heavy metal fanbase. This crossover appeal contributed to the song's lasting impact and recognition.
Grammy Nomination: Metallica received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Rock Song for "Nothing Else Matters" in 1992, further solidifying the song's critical acclaim and cultural significance.
Cultural Significance: "Nothing Else Matters" remains a staple of Metallica's live performances and is considered one of the greatest rock ballads of all time. Its enduring popularity has solidified its place in music history.
"Nothing Else Matters" stands as a testament to Metallica's ability to create emotionally resonant music that transcends genres and connects with listeners on a deeply personal level.