James Hetfield First Thought ‘Nothing Else Matters’ Would Make Him Look Weak
Metallica’s ballad “Nothing Else Matters” has become a classic since it was first released off the band’s 1991 self-titled album, but James Hetfield had reservations about the track 30 years ago.
In an interview with Classic Rock magazine (as transcribed by Loudwire), Hetfield said about writing the song, “What was it about not wanting to write a love song? That’s pretty easy. It’s a huge sign of weakness. You’re in Metallica. This is hardcore. What the f-ck are you doing?”
Of course, Papa Het would soon come around saying, “But that song was for me, it’s about being on the road, missing someone at home. But it was written in such a way that it connected with so many people. It wasn’t just about two people. It was about a connection with your higher power, lots of different things.”
Guitarist Kirk Hammett thought “Nothing Else Matters” was anything but weak noting, “All I could think of at the time was, ‘James wrote a f-cking love song to his girlfriend? That’s just weird.’ James always wanted to be perceived as this guy who is very confident and strong. And for him to write lyrics like that — showing a sensitive side — took a lot of balls.”
Another ballsy decision? Curating a massive covers collection in honor of the 30th anniversary of “The Black Album.” As previously reported, Metallica will be releasing a massive reissue of Metallica on September 10. Along with a reissue of the original album, the band is releasing The Metallica Blacklist, an all-star covers album of over 50 artists putting their own spin on the classic tracks that make up “The Black Album.”
Among the artists featured on the album is Miley Cyrus, who recently released her cover of “Nothing Else Matters” which also features Elton John, Yo-Yo Ma, Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith, Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo and WATT (aka: producer/musician Andrew Watt.)
Complete details can be found at Metallica.com, where both the Metallica reissue and The Metallica Blacklist are currently available for pre-order.
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