We have a collection of 18 arrangements for Metallica - Nothing Else Matters
Was "Nothing Else Matters" originally written as a ballad for Metallica's self-titled album? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Metallica: The Definitive Biography
"Nothing Else Matters" is one of Metallica's most iconic and well-known songs, and it holds a special place in the band's history. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Composition: "Nothing Else Matters" was written by Metallica's lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, James Hetfield. He composed the song while he was on the phone with his then-girlfriend. The lyrics reflect the challenges of being on the road and away from loved ones while pursuing a music career.
Unusual for Metallica: The song stands out from Metallica's typical thrash metal style. It has a more melodic and softer sound, featuring acoustic guitars and a symphonic arrangement. This departure from their usual heavy sound showcases the band's versatility.
Collaboration with an Orchestra: Metallica recorded a version of "Nothing Else Matters" with the San Francisco Symphony for their live album "S&M" (Symphony and Metallica). This collaboration further emphasized the band's ability to blend different musical genres.
Commercial Success: Despite its departure from the typical Metallica style, "Nothing Else Matters" became one of the band's biggest commercial successes. It reached high chart positions around the world and is considered one of their signature songs.
Grammy Nomination: The song earned Metallica a Grammy Award nomination for Best Rock Song in 1992. While it didn't win, the nomination highlighted the impact and recognition the song received.
Enduring Popularity: Over the years, "Nothing Else Matters" has remained one of Metallica's most popular and enduring songs. It continues to be a fan favorite and is often performed at their concerts.
Cross-Genre Appeal: The song's broad appeal has led to numerous covers and interpretations by artists from various genres. Its emotional lyrics and melody make it a song that resonates with listeners beyond the metal community.
Influence on Later Work: The success and positive reception of "Nothing Else Matters" encouraged Metallica to explore more diverse musical styles in their later albums. While they continued to produce heavy and thrash metal music, they became more open to experimenting with different sounds and arrangements.
"Nothing Else Matters" remains a testament to Metallica's ability to create music that transcends genre boundaries and connects with a wide audience.