Which song became the third single from Metallica’s 1991 album, The Black Album?

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“Nothing Else Matters” became the third single from Metallica’s 1991 album, The Black Album.

The power ballad was released as a single on April 20, 1992, following “Enter Sandman” and “The Unforgiven.” It began as a private musical idea James Hetfield wrote while touring, but the band recognized its potential and developed it into a full arrangement.

The song’s orchestral parts were arranged by Michael Kamen, who later worked with Metallica on the S&M project. Its clean guitar opening and vulnerable lyrics gave the band a softer presentation than many listeners expected, helping it cross into rock and pop audiences.

“Nothing Else Matters” reached number six on the UK Singles Chart and number 11 on the U.S. Billboard Album Rock Tracks chart. It is often described as a power ballad, although its emotional directness and orchestral treatment set it apart from the band’s earlier ballads.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

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