Which Metallica song was initially written by James Hetfield for himself before joining The Black Album?

“Nothing Else Matters” was initially written by James Hetfield for himself before joining The Black Album.

Hetfield began writing the song in 1990 while touring and feeling homesick. He originally regarded the intimate guitar part as personal material rather than a Metallica song, but drummer Lars Ulrich heard it and encouraged the band to consider recording it.

The song became one of the album’s defining moments. Its arpeggiated opening, orchestral arrangement, and direct lyrics contrasted with Metallica’s earlier reputation for speed and aggression. The studio recording also stands out because Kirk Hammett did not play on it; Hetfield performed the guitar solo.

The writing credit is officially shared by Hetfield and Ulrich, even though Hetfield originated the song’s initial idea. That distinction explains why answers naming only Hetfield can describe the origin story but do not give the complete formal songwriting credit.