Which song on Metallica’s 1991 album Metallica is the only recording on which Kirk Hammett does not play?

“Nothing Else Matters” is the only song on Metallica’s 1991 album Metallica on which Kirk Hammett does not play.

James Hetfield wrote and performed the song’s guitar parts for the studio recording, including its prominent acoustic introduction and the solo. The song began as a private guitar idea before developing into a power ballad about distance and connection. Its softer opening and orchestral arrangement made it a striking contrast with the album’s heavier material.

Hammett does appear in the song’s music video and has performed it live with Metallica. That distinction causes a common mix-up: his absence from the original recording does not mean he was absent from the song’s broader presentation or concert history.

The recording credits also identify additional orchestral contributions arranged with Michael Kamen. “Nothing Else Matters” became one of Metallica’s most recognizable songs despite departing from the band’s earlier thrash-metal profile.