Who wrote the original version of “Nothing Else Matters” while touring for Metallica?

James Hetfield wrote the original version of “Nothing Else Matters” while touring for Metallica.

Hetfield began writing the song in 1990 while he was away from home on tour. He initially considered the piece personal and did not intend it for Metallica, but drummer Lars Ulrich heard it and encouraged the band to develop it for the album.

The finished song is credited to Hetfield and Ulrich, while Hetfield is credited as its lyricist. It became a power ballad built around an arpeggiated guitar introduction, a restrained vocal performance, and orchestral arrangements by Michael Kamen.

Kirk Hammett does not play on the studio recording, making the song unusual within Metallica’s catalog. Hetfield played the guitar solo himself. Released as the album’s third single in 1992, it became one of the band’s best-known songs and a regular part of its live repertoire.