Funny you mentioned „some orchestration” ;). There are actually two live albums of Metallica with San Francisco Symphony. They’re called S&M and I have a felling they’ll blow Your mind ;)
With all due respect, Elton John is a damn fool. If this was a Bon Jovi or a Poison song everyone would laugh at it. There are no Poison or Bon Jovi reactions on this channel (and for good reason).
There are so many beautiful versions of this song. And Elton John himself made James Hetfield tear-up when he said this was one of the greatest songs of all time. And thank you for being so pure in the way you present yourself and what you're showing and teaching us.
This song will always have a special place in my heart. Seven months ago my wife suffered a random massive seizure and despite all my efforts to save her, she died in my arms. She was only 28. Her death shattered me in a way I can't explain. I was completely inconsolable for the first three days or so. It was the worst kind of hell I could even imagine. My very worst nightmare. After a few days I began to scrape myself back together enough to take a drive. After a week of complete and total musical silence I turned the radio on for the first time. Nothing Else Matters started playing the very second I hit the button. I cannot accurately describe the experience. It was like hearing it for the very first time. It was the single most beautiful song I had ever heard. I'll never forget it.
This song got me through my deployment to Somalia in '92. As a medic, I was trying to save the people that were trying to kill us, and the cognitive dissonance was incredible. Another 10th Mountain soldier let me listen to this cassette, and I latched onto it like a drowning person clings to a life preserver. I will always be indebted to Metallica for this song, among others.
This is the most meaningful song to me. My beautiful brother played this song perfectly, and it was he and his wife’s song since they were 15 and 16, when they met. They married in their 20’s. They were married for 35 years with 3 beautiful kids who grew up with a house full of live music learning percussion, strings and winds. When my brother passed after fighting cancer for more years than they thought possible, this is the song I played for him. It was the last song he heard. The best song for my best friend, my brother.
I'm sorry for your loss but this timeline doesn't add up. This was released in 1991. If this was "their" song when they met at 15/16 in 1991 and then they married in their 20's, the earliest they could have been married was around 1997. If they were married for 35 years as your post currently states that would take you to 2032 which is 10 years from now.
@@ericswannie3953 Should have clarified… It became their song when it came out. Yeah, you’re right. That song is just plastered in with my memories of him. I was surely a bit emotional when I posted that. And, thank you. ✌🏽
James Hetfield should be talked about alongside all the great "singer-songwriters". And not only is he writing and singing all of these songs, but he's often playing not the easiest riffs at high speeds while singing. He's an incredible musician and doesn't get enough praise because metal is viewed as a lesser genre.
No, because of their fame and infamy are they not given credit. The money grabbing(I'm a life long fan, I'll say it) turned the younger generation off.
@@7861blackthorn I just happened to click on this thread and Dylan is right my teenage son loves Metallica in fact some of his favorite stuff is off of Load, Reload, and Saint anger he’s a drummer he loves Metallica. Explain the money grabbing part of comment also because I believe you’ve drank some of the Napster hater kool aid real Metallica fans know they’ve never been sellouts like people used to say about the black album this album which is plain stupidity
So we’ll said. I always feel the same. They can take you to the point of anger, then toss you into a emotional rollercoaster, to going through a whole box of Kleenex. This song has such deep meaning for me, especially now as a mother, a widow and watching the world slowly fall apart.
Used to. First five are legendary and we are all better off in life for having them. After that…meh. But they know it too. Why they play the old stuff live more than the new.
The S&M (Symphony & Metallica) live album version of this song is probably my favourite. They played and recorded a live show with the San Francisco Symphony orchestra. If you want Orchestration... that's the album to listen to. It gives a great variation of the songs with a orchestral twist.
S&M 1 and 2, while not perfect in some parts, are probably the best Metallica and metal albums period. Disappointed that they didn't redo Hero of the Day on S&M2. Wish more mega rock bands would do albums with orchestras. So incredible.
Michael Kamen (R.I.P.) deserves a lot of credit for his work on writing the string arrangement to go with the music and singing. It adds so much depth and character to the song.
Micheal's work on the S&M album is magical. It is some of the most beautiful music I have ever heard. I strongly recommend Outlaw Torn from that album, epic!
This song demonstrates why you should never underestimate metal, and why I've been a fan of metal music for well over 50 years. Metal can be a brutal fist in your face, or a soft place to lie down and think about life, or anything in between.
Spot on. For me, going to metal shows and listening to metal, is a safe, cathartic way to release frustration, anger and whatever negative feelings that life throws at you. Going to a metal show is my favorite form of therapy and I have never felt unsafe at a show. Everyone is just there for the same reason. To enjoy it, exercise your demons, get our your frustration and anger with the powerful agressive songs in a safe and (mostly) socially acceptable way. 😂 I've been in the pit, and everywhere and met some of the coolest people. It's truly amazing energy and a great way to get out a lot of angst. I always leave feeling so much better, and lighter than I felt before a show. It's like group therapy on a very large scale and everyone gets into it. I have as much fun watching others just let go, cut loose and go with the feelings the music evokes as I do watching and enjoying the bands. 😁🤘 If you haven't been to a show, do it. I promise you won't regret it.
I've never seen a Metallica review like this.. Your emotion, joy, passion.. you can even pinpoint the moment you fell in love with the song. I love this review.. You're amazing!
You should do "The Unforgiven" next. If you liked this song, you'd probably like that one. There are some really interesting and unexpected things going on in it. I'm more of a fan of the earlier Metallica albums, but this album definitely has the best ballads.
you react to these songs how we all wish everyone reacted to these songs when we shared them with a friend/lover over the years. you appreciate the deep meanings and flow of everything us fans see
To me this song is Metallica’s “Stairway to Heaven”. Starting as a beautiful introductory melodic instrumental, the addition of soft spoken singing, the slow introduction of the structuring drum beat, all escalating in pace and tone over several minutes to a very multi-layered rock n roll power ballad!
IMPORTANT BACKGROUND information: James Hetfield recorded all the guitars for this song all by himself, including the guitar solo. Kirk had no participation in it. The reason is that this song is very personal for Hetfield. He composed and wrote the song at home with nobody else around in a very intimate moment with himself. Moreover, he had no intention to bring it to the band because of the song's intimacy. He just wrote it for himself. But than somehow lars had heard it and said, "Hey James, this is beautiful!". To my count, there are at least 6 or 7 different Guitars in this song playing different parts, including one 12-string double-neck guitar that you can see in the video. But all of them are recorded by Hetfield. FUN FACT: Hetfield composed the song while talking on the phone with a friend. He had the guitar on him with only the right hand being free, while holding the phone in his left hand. So he just started picking the open strings (that needs only one hand), E (low), G, B, E (high) in this order and backwards, making an E Minor cord in arpeggio. So the first notes of the song came up randomly just like that, and Hetfield told his friend 'Hey dude, sorry, got to go", And went on from there. And the rest is history.
Additional fact: Elizabeth mentions the string arrangements in this song. The strings were actually arranged by the late genius Michael Kamen. Reading his Wikipedia page of who he has worked with reads like a “Who’s Who” of the 80’s and 90’s music industry.
@@tomd1969 Indeed. Kamen was basically a film-soundtrack composer ("The Princess Bride" and many more). The orchestral arrangement for this song, by kamen, led to the s&m show about 8 years later. After "Nothing Else Matters" he suggested Metallica to do a full show with an orchestra, and it took literally 8 years till they said yes. And by the way, when the black album came out, kamen complained to Metallica that the orchestra is really low in the mix, but they showed him "the elevator version", which includes only one guitar, James's voice and the orchestra.
No Leaf Clover on the S&M album live with the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra gets my next vote. When you noted you really enjoyed classical orchestration it immediately popped in mind.
Np Leaf Clover is a piece that Metallica wrote especially for this concert with a symphony orchestra. They showed it to the world for the first time live during this concert. This year in Prague, I heard him live and my legs buckled. Please, analyze it.
James always writes more melodic, song-serving solos. I haven't been a Metallica fan for some time, but I'll always have an immense amount of respect for his musicianship.
I envy her ability to hear these songs for the first time. It's like a drug you're always chasing what you felt the first time you did it. As many times as ive heard the songs she goes over, i feel myself getting so emotional hearing her say what ive felt so many times hearing these songs. I almost wish i could wipe the songs from my memory and hear them for the first time again. This is the closest I'll get to that and i applaud her for the emotions she purvays and helps us to feel.
Right? And I believe her too! Why would a vocal expert know anything about vocals? Only a fool would listen to music when it's their literal job. Pretending to have not heard Nirvana, ELO, Boston, on and on and on... I mean, seems like you fall for it, so she has a base apparently.
@@eriklarson9137 she's an opera singer. So, I would imagine that her musical preferences would range toward the classic style. Not everyone listens to the same thing that you do. 😮
It is extraordinary to see someone who has never heard this song, to see how she reacts, how she feels it, how she appreciates it, and remember the first time we heard it, remember how we felt in that wonderful moment...
@@adamclark9004depends on how you were raised, been exposed to when growing up and so on. For me, I was exposed to a lot of this because of my brothers but there's a ton of music I'm just starting to discover beyond rock/metal and such.
i know it almost makes me feel as if im hearing the song again for the first time, this is my favorite metallica song. i could listen to it every day for the rest of my life and not ever get bored of it
She is mainly doing reactions to rock and metal songs. I don't believe she is so naive when it comes to metal only because she is an opera singer herself...
Elton John, himself a freaking LEGEND. Made Hetfield almost cry, (I saw a tear, so did Lars. Believe it was a Howard Stern interview) when he said this song is one of the most beautiful songs ever written... My fav song! Although all my boys believe it's Master of Puppets. :)
Your react videos are one-of-a-kind in that you listen not just with your ears, but your soul. Watching your reactions is the closest thing we can get to listening to the song for the first time again. This one truly is beautiful and marks a special time in my adolescence when I was discovering music other than what I grew up on. It is incredibly nostalgic and makes me feel so happy to listen to. Thank you for giving us such heartfelt content and bringing joy into our lives!
I never thought i'd spend 25 minutes listening to Nothing else matters, but here we are.. 😁 I know nothing about music, but love to hear insights from people who do. Thank you for this. 😊
Yup, me neither and I forgot how good of a song it is. The thing is this song is played in bars to exhaustion so for a while I avoided completely, but here we are.
That intro is still one of my favorite things to play on guitar. It isn't hard to play at all, but playing it with perfect clarity and emotion is really satisfying and it just sounds so melancholy.
This was the first Metallica song where James really wore his heart on his sleeve. It’s no wonder it’s so beloved. Thank you Elizabeth for reacting to this one!
Since you've done this song, I HIGHLY recommend listening to the Unforgiven trilogy from Metallica. The first one always gives me chills. If you don't want to do another metallica reaction so soon, then I suggest Erase My Scars by Evans Blue. That's another song that sends me to chill city.
The Unforgiven is the fist Metallica song i ever heard, i can't explain how or why but it was at that point i learned that music can actually do something to you instead of just being some sound around you. Without Metallica my life would've been different, that's for sure.
Your reactions give me life.. the way your face lights up when you hear something the first time.. is awe inspiring.. like a child on Christmas morning.. just beautiful
I've never felt so relaxed about learning something because the musical education you give is beyond refreshing. You analysize the technicalities of the piece in a straight forward manner yet maintain a level of intensity that makes one know they're learning something but it's enveloped in an atmosphere of enjoyment. Your emotional rawness just adds to the level of genuine honesty.
As a long time Metallica fan, I would love to see your reaction to anything off of the S + M album. Metallica playing live with a full symphony. It is almost magical.
As someone that's been a Metallica fan since 85 and studied classical music for a little longer I have to say I really don't like either of the S&M records. The oddball orchestration detracts from the power of the songs with weird interjections and mistimed exclamations of shrill tones. The song One is a great example of what I dislike. Such a simple melody but the orchestrated parts just detract rather than add. The majestic segue that Metallica had between the slower parts and the heavy "SOS" riff with "Landmine...." is destroyed more than if a shell had landed on it. It's a super simple part when it gets heavy (amazing timing though, so percussive) but Michael Keman was all over the place. It's like throwing spaghetti at the walls and calling it dinner. He could have channeled his inner Chopin or Liszt and gone dark and slow - and made it sound unbelievably evil, which would fit the mood. Instead you get weird blurts that distract. Being that it was a local show and I'd been a member of the fan club for years, it was fun being there for the occasion but it was far from their most fun show. As for my other Metallica favorite, Battery: oboe player, why? The melancholy intro is interrupted from the get go by an oboe piece that's the equivalent of some teen walking into a eulogy and blathering on about how bad a pizza at the mall was. It's a song about the raw energy found in SF in the scene around Battery St. The only good thing to come from that recording of Battery was that James had to slow down so everyone else could really keep up and consequently played it heavier than he had done in years. Jason played bass on this album but his predecessor Cliff loved classical and was a student of not always following the guitar part. It's a shame that Michael isn't of the same ilk.
@@Swampster70 hmm, I agree but some songs like Bleeding Me or Outlaw Torn are a lot better in the S&M versions I think. Some songs didn't work and some songs did
@@Swampster70 I too have studied music to a collegiate level and I have to respectfully disagree with you. Obviously these are both our opinions and nothing more, but I feel that Michael Kamen was very cohesive and tasteful with his orchestration through out the entire concert. There were many beautifully crafted lines and themes all throughout the concert. Outlaw torn was gorgeous. My all time favorite track "The Thing that Should Not Be" was so full sounding and eeiry. As far Jason being there, unfortunately seeing as Cliff passed and Jason got given next to no creative freedom. As a result. Jason was (as far as a solid stage presence and bass player goes) Was the best bassist they had post Cliff. He also plays very well in "The Call of Ktulu" which, as you know doesn't just follow the guitar tracks at all. Plus all the guys were really just on form in the SnM 1 performance that was released.
It’s so thrilling to watch you being struck by the magical places that this song delivers. we know they are approaching and can’t wait to see your reactions. It’s so validating.
I've listened to this song literally thousands of times in the 31 years since its release and it still gives me goosebumps. I had my first real kiss to the intro and beat drop of this song. It holds a special place in my heart.
Yes, 16 year old me was wondering when you would finally get to this song. It’s been a song I have listened to a bunch in my Highschool years. It’s loaded with memories from how I was back then. A tall, shy and skinny adolescent.
I wish I listened to Metallica in my early HS years. Was too busy listening to Pink Floyd to care. Until about late Junior year when I started listening to all types of metal.
Metallica is ingrained in my teenage years.! So many good times, and got me through the worst of times! So much so that when I became widowed at the age of 21, we played "Mama Said", one of his surprisingly favorites at that time, at his funeral. Wasn't a dry eye in the place. ❤️🤟
Same. I was 14 when the Black album broke and it was so epic. Something that will stay with me always. The only other music that hit me as hard was GNR Appetite for destruction album , Chili Peppers Under the Bridge song, and Nirvana Teen Spirit song. Admittedly I didn’t really get to GNR until 13 years of age because in ‘86 I wasn’t listening to metal yet. I love so much of the 80’s music and it will always be my favorite era followed by the 70’s, but maybe it was because I was at the right age or whatever, but the music I listed hit me the hardest and I really really miss those days. Plus the 80’s because being a kid in the 80’s is something I would never change. 🤙🏻
“Nothing Else Matters” is a ballad about being honest with your feelings and expressing them. In a 2012 interview with The Village Voice, Hetfield spoke about the intention of the track, its meanings and how it came to be: “It was a song for myself in my room on tour when I was bumming out about being away from home.
A friend of mine died a year ago and had this song playing at his funeral. His death was a shock to everyone that knew him and this song always hits home, I cannot but think of him every time I hear it.
There was a recent beautiful moment on the Howard stern show of all places. Metallica celebrating their 30th anniversary of this, the Black Album, did an appearance and played this song, strangely, with Miley Cirus. Miley covered this song on a tribute album also for the anniversary with Elton John. Elton John called into the show and while talking to Howard with the boys in Metallica listening, stated that this song was one of the best songs ever written. The look on James’ face,while almost brought to tears, is priceless. You could tell it meant the world to him. Stuff like that always gets to me.
I’m pretty sure that, like everything else on Howard’s show, and most others, that was planned. Unless Elton was just sitting at home listening to the Howard Stern show and was like ‘Ooh, Metallica! I should call them.’
@@Stevil3113likely pre planned but that doesn’t mean James knew he would call in and even if he did he may not have known what Elton would say. His reaction seemed genuine.
I’ve listened to this song countless times since it’s release, and have never experienced such emotion with it until watching you break it down here. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and emotions on this piece. Wonderful!
The Elizabeth experience. She’s made me emotional on a few occasions. Her breakdowns and insight make it almost as if I’m sitting in a room with the artist and they are telling me all of the finite details of composing a piece.
James Hetfield said in a old interview that he wrote the song from hotel room to hotel room and he was inspired by thinking how difficult is to hold a healthy relationship with someone while being on the road all the time(traveling so much). He also said that ‘Nothing Else Matters’ is his favorite song from the band.
Exactly, originally the song was never meant for a Metallica album. Then Lars heard it and the guys managed to convince James to put it on the Black Album.
One of the greatest songs ever written. Shows true musicianship. I love the meaning behind the song. It can literally relate to anything in any person's life. Great analysis! Subbed!
This song hits the heart for me in more ways than one. I love using "Nothing Else Matters" as a way to introduce Metallica and heavy metal in general to people who otherwise often think that metal is just noise. It's one of the first songs that I decided to learn the lyrics to, and not to mention my wife and I snuck it into our first dance at our wedding. Now every time I hear this song, I think of that special moment
One of the greatest moments in my life was having this song as the first dance at my wedding. My wife and I are both huge Metallica fans so to be able to celebrate our day with a song like this was amazing.
While not the most loved era of the band, 90s Metallica was a great showcase for James Hetfield's Vocals. "Hero of the Day", "Bleeding Me", "Low Man's Lyric" and "No Leaf Clover" all show great depth that he didn't have before...and probably not since. All are worthy of your great vocal analysis!
I would like you to do a reaction of the Cranberries, particularly “Dreams” or “Linger.” Dolores O’Riordan (the lead singer) has a beautifully haunting and expressive voice--one of my all-time favorites. Sadly, she is no longer with us, and that thought brings a tear to my eye, mainly through regret that I never have and will never see her perform live.
@@tomd1969 she did the cover along with a doom/sludge metal band called Thou, but if you check out the rest of her music you’ll see she’s more into the shoegaze & even the folk genre of music 😌🖤
This came out after James first started taking voice lessons. He wrote these lyrics and was super worried the band wouldn't accept it, because it was a ballad.
Yeah and the voice lessons have totally paid off. He still sounds incredible if not better these days whilst other singers have blown / worn out their vocal chords
@@TheNish101 I agree, I think James's vocals have improved with age. His Pre-Black Album vocals are iconic, but there's no comparison in the quality of his vocals from the Black Album - present day. He's not fancy, he may not have a crazy range, but he's a great vocalist and it works perfectly for Metallica!
SO happy you use the term ANALYSIS instead of the usual click hunting 'reaction' or 'first listen'. I love your videos, you are interesting, informative and beautiful. No need for any misleading titles, just do you, honestly, we will all still be here.
This is why soooo many true musicians love metal. The possibilities of combinations are truly endless. This song is a perfect example. It can be played acoustically, full band, or with a full orchestra behind it. You should definitely check out their first tour with an orchestra. You’ll get those “wash over” feelings all the time.
This song has really helped me . After my wife had a mastectomy for breast cancer , making her listen to this allowed her to believe my feelings for her had not changed , James is a god
Can't believe you lived your whole life without listen to this masterpiece 'til now. This song always makes me wanna cry, especially when the guitar solo is about to start. It gives me goosebumps EVERY TIME.
Your ability to dissect music and tell it into a story is unrivalled. The way you melt into (imo) the greatest song of all time speaks volumes in how metallica also has the ability to tell a story. I love your work.
Your final comments say it all. Magic! Genius talent across the board!! One of the most miss understood and overlooked best bands of the last50 years!!!!
The incredible thing about this song is that it's written in such a way that it can mean something very specific for each listener. It's powerful and beautiful, and I think entirely appropriate to feel strong emotions when hearing this song for the first or thousandth time.
Yeah, it's an astonishing song and rightfully considered an all time classic. It's probably one of the most covered songs ever (seriously, there are some great covers out there) and I have listened to it countless times. But I have no idea what it's actually about. :p
The Black album got me into these guys. The older kids preferred their older albums, and considered Black to be their selling-out point. Truth be told, I think Black is peak Metallica, and I am glad you got to hear this amazing gem from that album!
This album also got me into these guys. I also agree this was Metallica AR their peak, but I still prefer their older albums. However, all of their albums are amazing and my mood decides the album I'm listening too.
Oh,I remember how furious many longtime hardcore fans were when this album was released! Sellout was the kindest thing said.There was a sense of betrayal...but bands can't make the same albums over and over,and they need to stretch and explore or they won't grow.The band or the members of the band.I'm very happy to know that a lot of people really love the Black album.It's the source of many songs I love,not just Metallica songs but songs in general.
I remember this. I was in the older kids that had cut my teeth on all the earlier albums. I could never understand what they saw as selling out. Yes, the worked with Bob Rock to format their songs for better acceptance with radio. But that partnership brought so much artistic growth as well.
This is probably one of the greatest songs to ever be, and among my personal favorites. I have listened to Nothing Else Matters and the rest of the "Black" album countless times since I bought it with my allowance money back in 1991. I was 13 years old at the time, and it really made me appreciate music, and got me into the hobby. When I hear it my heart fills with nostalgia, and brings back such fond memories.
I found your channel yesterday, and i cannot stop watching, you have such a great personality and you notice thing i never have. I grew up with this song, i know ever work and learned to play it and you pointed out things i never noticed. Love it!! Thank you for showing me to look at music with more detail!
My mom and I slow danced to this at my high school graduation party which was 9 days before I left for us navy boot camp back in 2002. This song will always hold a special place in my heart ❤️.
This has quickly become my favorite RUclips channel. To have the songs I grew up listening to, and not understanding then why they were so impactful and beautiful, to now have you so beautifully explain is really something special. Thanks for always bringing such quality and respectful analysis. I now have a deeper appreciation for what many of these bands have accomplished.
Watching you listen to this is so entertaining. Your reactions and love of the music is as good as the song itself. The vulnerable, passionate, pleasure, excitement and love you show are absolutely beautiful. You are stunning.
it's probably been said before. but the orchestra in the background is arranged by Michael Kamen. Michael once said in an interview that he was surprised that his arrangements for Nothing Else Matters were so soft in the final mix. when he spoke to the band at an award show, he said that they should do an orchestral show with his arrangements. After years of not hearing anything, Michael suddenly received a message from Metallica: “we want to do that concert with you that you were talking about last” 😆 And that's how Symphony & Metallica came out in 1999.
a challenging song for james' singing is Bleeding Me. If you want to analyze a metallica song again, this one is very cool with the orchestra behind the band!
I saw that concert at Madison Square Garden and it was so amazing! There are so many good songs from Load she could do. Outlaw Torn is my all time favorite song of theirs, got through some real lows.
James Hetfield was on the Howard Stern show and Elton John phoned in. Elton told James that "Nothing Else Matters" was, in his opinion, one of the greatest songs ever written regardless of genre, and it caused Hetfield to cry a bit. It was a touching moment...
Wow, that would be a mind-blowing moment. I would probably cry too lol, I don't think James gets the recognition he deserves as a vocalist and a songwriter. Metallica is the biggest band in the world and sometimes that's a bad thing, it causes people to overlook an individual member's genius.
One thing i love about watching Elizabeths reaction videos is that you can see from her face expressions that she pays attention to every detail of each song. ❤❤ Elizabeth if you like the orchestrational part underneath you should listen to the s&m version of the song
Have been waiting for this day. Not only is this one of Metallica's greatest songs, it's easily one of the greatest songs ever. The more Metallica music you explore, the more you'll love them. They have something for pretty much everyone. 40+ years of making and playing music and still going strong! I'm with the others on these suggestions. The Outlaw Torn, Bleeding Me, and No Leaf Clover all from S&M 1999. Metallica played with the San Fransisco Symphony for that show, and the whole thing is just amazing.
Omg, I just love how Elizabeth can pick up on the deep emotion this song evokes! This song has made me cry and almost always gives me goosebumps. Thanks Elizabeth for your intelligent and emotionally honest analysis of this song! Xx
I strongly recommend "The Outlaw Torn" and "Bleeding Me" from S&M. Both of those songs are probably James' greatest vocal pieces, and S&M includes the San Fransisco Symphony for the entire show. My favorite version of "Bleeding Me" is actually Woodstock '99, but there is a topless woman in the crowd that it shows for a second or two (might want to cut that part out if you react to it).
Unforgiven 3 too. Wierd to watch James without his axe. But I have always been obsessed with bleeding me in terms of him singing it and the lyrics. Such a good song.
"It's just simple... and well done." Describes every great Metallica song, riff and melody. They are masters of making songs which sound "simple" or look "simple" to play when you read the music, but replicating it to make it *feel* just right takes an insane level of skill and commitment. Can't wait to see what next Metallica piece you cover next. I think Battery (Seattle '89) should definitely be on your radar, lots of fast articulation and PURE energy from their absolute peak.
@@stanleymyrick4068 I honestly think Battery is extremely hard to replicate. Dream Theater's version of Battery is a great example (a band that I absolutely love btw). They play it perfectly note for note, and they are outstanding musicians, all of them. They absolutely have what it takes to play it perfectly and they do (vocals aside, which are obviously the hardest thing to replicate). They nailed the tone of the instruments, the tempo is flawless, the small details are all present, they are tight af, everything you could expect is there... yet it doesn't sound quite right. It's just not Metallica. People can talk all they want about how Metallica are sloppy sometimes and what not, but man they truly have a thing of their own that you can't replace with anything else. It just has to be them for it to sound good.
@@nicosimioni7363 there absolutely is just something about them. Seeing them live is something else. Last time I saw them Godsmack played just before they did. Godsmack put on a good show, for sure. But when Metallica plays, there's an energy there that most other bands don't have, it's an energy that goes beyond the music. The music alone doesn't explain the energy you feel.
I've seen a lot of bands live and while I've been to some GREAT concerts, there is nothing quite like Metallica. Say whatever you want about them. I grew up with them. I've seen them 3 times and I can't get enough. They'll always be my favorite band no matter what. They are the reason why I love metal.
The Metallica concert I went to they turned down the lights and James sat on stool and played this song acoustically. Totally stripped down and purely amazing.
Band members James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich wrote this. According to Hetfield, he wrote the song about a girlfriend he once had, but when he looks back at it, he can't remember why he wrote it. Now, Metallica just considers it a song about their fans, because nothing else matters but their fans. The orchestration in the song was arranged by Michael Kamen, who also conducted the San Francisco Symphony orchestra. This song appears on Metallica's 1999 live album S&M, which was recorded with the San Francisco Symphony orchestra. >> James Hetfield has cited the band's constant touring as an inspiration for this song. They wrote pieces of the song on their tour bus and in numerous hotels. This is one of the few Metallica songs where James Hetfield played the guitar solo rather than Kirk Hammett. Hetfield explained this song to Mojo magazine December 2008. Said the Metallica singer: "It's about being on the road, missing someone at home, but it was written in such a way, it connected with so many people, that it wasn't just about two people, it was about a connection with your higher power, lots of different things Hetfield told Mojo that after penning this love ballad, he was initially concerned about playing it to the rest of the band. He explained: "At first I didn't even want to play it for the guys. I thought that Metallica could only be the four of us. These are songs about destroying things, head banging, bleeding for the crowd, whatever it is, as long as it wasn't about chicks and fast cars, even though that's what we liked. The song was about a girlfriend at the time. It turned out to be a pretty big song.
He wrote the basis of the song and nearly didn't show the band as it was so personal and 'not a Metallica song' in his mind. I think he ended up showing it to Lars and he was adamant that it needed to be on the album. I for one am glad he did!
Please James.. On stage , Sing Nothing else matters and ESPECIALLY the unforgiven the exact same way you did on the album! 🙏😭 It's shame.James is like forgot how to sing those songs (even if he got better at singing he ruins the original material )
Orchestrations in the back of the “choruses” were composed by maestro Michael Kamen, whom more or less 10 years later will conduct San Francisco Symphony Orchestra in the concert with Metallica, playing a whole Metallica set …you should definitely check it out
The most talented and absolutely the best person on the planet to evaluate anything anyone could or would sing. Elizabeth is a professional trained singer with a pedigree of education that is from the best of the best classical trained singers so we need to just pay attention to what she says
My late wife selected this as one of the songs to play at her funeral/ celebration at life. It was also one of the songs that was mellow enough to put our infant to sleep.
Metallica has been a huge part of my life since 1986. They’ve saved me many times. This song was the song my daughter chose for our first dance at her wedding. Incredibly emotional.
"Cinematic" Perfect description for Metallica's classic tracks. They were known for having long instrumental intros like this, which went so well with the music they wrote. They were so far ahead of their time it's actually ridiculous. The is one of the best songs ever written, in history, in my opinion.
Such a beautiful song. The opening riff has got to be one of the most famous guitar riffs of all time. Everyone who plays guitar learns it. James' voice has so much power and emotion in this song too.
It's an exercise for fingerpicking. Thumb low E, middle G, ring B, pinky high e. Hetfield was working on the strumming pattern to improve his fingerpicking and that pattern gave him an idea.
Everyone plays it because it's the easiest thing in the world to play. The first couple of bars are all open notes. It sounds great, but you can literally never have touched a guitar before and be able to play it in 2 minutes.
Nothing Else Matters is the most defiant song they ever have done. It says I don't care what you do, say i am me and it doesn't matter what you say, nothing else matters but staying true to me. James was on spot with his vocals abilities and they guys again are amazing. Not over doing a thing. Punctuation is spot on. Happy with whatever comes no matter what. This song speaks to the soul. It's metal yeah but it defines what was always there and most ignored. This is genius. Sadly most will never "hear" it. Keep diving.
Absolutely the best vocal analysis of songs in general. Love the amount of knowledge you have on the subject, and that you share it freely with the world making us all smarter. Bringing us all up. You are such a boon to this world. Never stop.
People don't get how musically beautiful hard rock and metal music truly is, especially when compared to the overproduced, radio friendly hip hop and pop genres. I fell in love with this music at a young age because the musicianship of it, the brilliant and deep writing, the raw emotion of it spoke to me like nothing else.
How do You do this? The way you dissect and also appreciate a song. You have a very gifted ear and brain to evaluate music. That's why I keep coming back. Keep going!
For whatever reason, I haven’t heard this song in years, and you just reminded me of how beautiful a piece it is. Thank you, I’m going to add it into my regular playlist again…
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You should do Alanis morisette uninvited ✌️🤟🤙
Funny you mentioned „some orchestration” ;). There are actually two live albums of Metallica with San Francisco Symphony. They’re called S&M and I have a felling they’ll blow Your mind ;)
Are you ever going to pay respects to the legends, Brenda Lee, Patsy Cline, Connie Francis, Roy Orbison?
Would like a T-Shirt combination of Spoiled by Metal, with WACKAWACKA WACKA underneath
Has anybody told this woman Metallica has an album with a full orchestra??
Elton John said about Nothing Else Matters - "one of the best songs ever written". That's pretty high praise.
With all due respect, Elton John is a damn fool. If this was a Bon Jovi or a Poison song everyone would laugh at it. There are no Poison or Bon Jovi reactions on this channel (and for good reason).
@@MetalPersonJ I’m not sure I understand the point you’re trying to make.
It got James to tear up.
Watching James' reaction to hearing Elton saying that got me to tear up as well. That is some amazing praise to get from a legend.
@@Maggai wasn't that just the best?! I've rewatched that appearance on Howard Stern quite a few times and it gets me in the feels every single time.
There are so many beautiful versions of this song. And Elton John himself made James Hetfield tear-up when he said this was one of the greatest songs of all time. And thank you for being so pure in the way you present yourself and what you're showing and teaching us.
there's a youtube clip under the Howard Stern Show. It's remarkable
Good job. I knew someone would know this metallica4LIFE
@@coachjdc ruclips.net/video/wofWGD5TUxo/видео.html James' reaction is just pure emotion.
The version with Miley Cyrus on the Howard Stern Show is amazing.
@@emerje0 You can tell James was making every evert to hold back the emotions when Sir Elton John says that.
"Unforgiven" is also an amazing soft-ish number on the same album, that is worth analyzing
Fully agree. Great song which is pretty ideal in studio version, so many specific details, tones.
Yes please do "The Unforgiven" has one of my favorite Kirk solos of all time!
Big time..
1,2 and 3 would be amazing to analyse.
Unforgiven is fantastic! Unforgiven 2 is super lyricially catchy and awesome. Unforgiven 3 is so bluezy especially the solo so good!
This song will always have a special place in my heart. Seven months ago my wife suffered a random massive seizure and despite all my efforts to save her, she died in my arms. She was only 28. Her death shattered me in a way I can't explain. I was completely inconsolable for the first three days or so. It was the worst kind of hell I could even imagine. My very worst nightmare. After a few days I began to scrape myself back together enough to take a drive. After a week of complete and total musical silence I turned the radio on for the first time. Nothing Else Matters started playing the very second I hit the button. I cannot accurately describe the experience. It was like hearing it for the very first time. It was the single most beautiful song I had ever heard. I'll never forget it.
I'm sorry for your loss.
Oh my goodness, I'm so sorry for your loss...
Wow that’s heavy
You've done really well to write this piece - keep strong.
Sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and glad that this masterpiece of a song brings you comfort
This song got me through my deployment to Somalia in '92. As a medic, I was trying to save the people that were trying to kill us, and the cognitive dissonance was incredible. Another 10th Mountain soldier let me listen to this cassette, and I latched onto it like a drowning person clings to a life preserver. I will always be indebted to Metallica for this song, among others.
I’m glad you got home safe.
Thank you for your service.
Maybe they were trying to kill you because you had no business being in their country?
Thanks for your service brother. I was a senior in high school. Remember buying the tape.
Thank you for your service, my brother.
This is the most meaningful song to me. My beautiful brother played this song perfectly, and it was he and his wife’s song since they were 15 and 16, when they met. They married in their 20’s. They were married for 35 years with 3 beautiful kids who grew up with a house full of live music learning percussion, strings and winds.
When my brother passed after fighting cancer for more years than they thought possible, this is the song I played for him. It was the last song he heard. The best song for my best friend, my brother.
I'm sorry for your loss but this timeline doesn't add up. This was released in 1991. If this was "their" song when they met at 15/16 in 1991 and then they married in their 20's, the earliest they could have been married was around 1997. If they were married for 35 years as your post currently states that would take you to 2032 which is 10 years from now.
@@ericswannie3953 Should have clarified… It became their song when it came out. Yeah, you’re right. That song is just plastered in with my memories of him. I was surely a bit emotional when I posted that. And, thank you. ✌🏽
My wife passed from cancer, sorry for your loss. I truly feel for you.
That's beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
@@ericswannie3953 Wow imagine typing that out as a response.
James Hetfield should be talked about alongside all the great "singer-songwriters". And not only is he writing and singing all of these songs, but he's often playing not the easiest riffs at high speeds while singing. He's an incredible musician and doesn't get enough praise because metal is viewed as a lesser genre.
No, because of their fame and infamy are they not given credit. The money grabbing(I'm a life long fan, I'll say it) turned the younger generation off.
@@7861blackthorn what? Metallica are known as the metal gods. Everyone even kids these days know Metallica
@@dolantho apparently you don't get out much. I love Metallica but they catch major flak in the metal community.
@@7861blackthorn I just happened to click on this thread and Dylan is right my teenage son loves Metallica in fact some of his favorite stuff is off of Load, Reload, and Saint anger he’s a drummer he loves Metallica. Explain the money grabbing part of comment also because I believe you’ve drank some of the Napster hater kool aid real Metallica fans know they’ve never been sellouts like people used to say about the black album this album which is plain stupidity
great comment
Metallica doesn't just make music. They take you on a journey through the song and every note is a word in the story.
So we’ll said. I always feel the same. They can take you to the point of anger, then toss you into a emotional rollercoaster, to going through a whole box of Kleenex. This song has such deep meaning for me, especially now as a mother, a widow and watching the world slowly fall apart.
Wow...that is absolutely my feeling...
Metallica writes goddamn _operas._
Used to. First five are legendary and we are all better off in life for having them. After that…meh. But they know it too. Why they play the old stuff live more than the new.
Well put
When James sings "never opened myself this way" on the first verse feels so genuine, feels like it's not even singing but just talking to a friend.
Esa frase son las últimas palabras del abuelo de James antes de morir, toda la primer estrofa lo es
The S&M (Symphony & Metallica) live album version of this song is probably my favourite. They played and recorded a live show with the San Francisco Symphony orchestra. If you want Orchestration... that's the album to listen to. It gives a great variation of the songs with a orchestral twist.
Yes, I was thinking of that version when I saw what song she did. The S&M version has become my favourite from the first time I listened to it
Hm, how many of the SM versions are the best? Fuel, obviously. Bleeding me. Hero of the day? Some others I could be convinced on
S&M is by far my favorite album. I think Nothing Else Matters, Fuel, and No Leaf Clover are probably my favorites.
Made a reality by the late, great Michael Kamen.
S&M 1 and 2, while not perfect in some parts, are probably the best Metallica and metal albums period. Disappointed that they didn't redo Hero of the Day on S&M2. Wish more mega rock bands would do albums with orchestras. So incredible.
Michael Kamen (R.I.P.) deserves a lot of credit for his work on writing the string arrangement to go with the music and singing. It adds so much depth and character to the song.
Micheal's work on the S&M album is magical. It is some of the most beautiful music I have ever heard. I strongly recommend Outlaw Torn from that album, epic!
This song demonstrates why you should never underestimate metal, and why I've been a fan of metal music for well over 50 years. Metal can be a brutal fist in your face, or a soft place to lie down and think about life, or anything in between.
Nicely said! Respect!
Spot on. For me, going to metal shows and listening to metal, is a safe, cathartic way to release frustration, anger and whatever negative feelings that life throws at you. Going to a metal show is my favorite form of therapy and I have never felt unsafe at a show. Everyone is just there for the same reason. To enjoy it, exercise your demons, get our your frustration and anger with the powerful agressive songs in a safe and (mostly) socially acceptable way. 😂
I've been in the pit, and everywhere and met some of the coolest people. It's truly amazing energy and a great way to get out a lot of angst. I always leave feeling so much better, and lighter than I felt before a show.
It's like group therapy on a very large scale and everyone gets into it. I have as much fun watching others just let go, cut loose and go with the feelings the music evokes as I do watching and enjoying the bands. 😁🤘 If you haven't been to a show, do it. I promise you won't regret it.
Absolute!
I love your analysis.
I've never seen a Metallica review like this.. Your emotion, joy, passion.. you can even pinpoint the moment you fell in love with the song. I love this review.. You're amazing!
check out her review of master of puppets
I could not have said it better. ❤️
It's because she loves music.. when you love it you can appreciate so much different music
I lost count at the amount of times she mentally orgasmed on camera.
You should do "The Unforgiven" next. If you liked this song, you'd probably like that one. There are some really interesting and unexpected things going on in it.
I'm more of a fan of the earlier Metallica albums, but this album definitely has the best ballads.
“Nothing Else Matters” is Metallica’s top ballad and “Unforgiven” is easily the second best. Please review “Unforgiven.”
In my opinion, as much as I love this song, I think the unforgiven is much better.
I agree, that has been my favourite of theirs ever since I first heard it.
How about the collaboration with the orchestra
Not to mention, its an interesting emphasis of Metallica's "storytelling" when they made it a trilogy across 17 years.
you react to these songs how we all wish everyone reacted to these songs when we shared them with a friend/lover over the years. you appreciate the deep meanings and flow of everything us fans see
To me this song is Metallica’s “Stairway to Heaven”. Starting as a beautiful introductory melodic instrumental, the addition of soft spoken singing, the slow introduction of the structuring drum beat, all escalating in pace and tone over several minutes to a very multi-layered rock n roll power ballad!
Love it
So true, I always have this stairway connection too ❤
IMPORTANT BACKGROUND information: James Hetfield recorded all the guitars for this song all by himself, including the guitar solo. Kirk had no participation in it.
The reason is that this song is very personal for Hetfield. He composed and wrote the song at home with nobody else around in a very intimate moment with himself. Moreover, he had no intention to bring it to the band because of the song's intimacy. He just wrote it for himself. But than somehow lars had heard it and said, "Hey James, this is beautiful!".
To my count, there are at least 6 or 7 different Guitars in this song playing different parts, including one 12-string double-neck guitar that you can see in the video. But all of them are recorded by Hetfield.
FUN FACT: Hetfield composed the song while talking on the phone with a friend. He had the guitar on him with only the right hand being free, while holding the phone in his left hand. So he just started picking the open strings (that needs only one hand), E (low), G, B, E (high) in this order and backwards, making an E Minor cord in arpeggio. So the first notes of the song came up randomly just like that, and Hetfield told his friend 'Hey dude, sorry, got to go", And went on from there. And the rest is history.
Additional fact: Elizabeth mentions the string arrangements in this song. The strings were actually arranged by the late genius Michael Kamen. Reading his Wikipedia page of who he has worked with reads like a “Who’s Who” of the 80’s and 90’s music industry.
@@tomd1969
Indeed. Kamen was basically a film-soundtrack composer ("The Princess Bride" and many more). The orchestral arrangement for this song, by kamen, led to the s&m show about 8 years later. After "Nothing Else Matters" he suggested Metallica to do a full show with an orchestra, and it took literally 8 years till they said yes. And by the way, when the black album came out, kamen complained to Metallica that the orchestra is really low in the mix, but they showed him "the elevator version", which includes only one guitar, James's voice and the orchestra.
Additionally Hetfield was inspired by the Chris Isaac song "Wicked Game" and was tired of "Screaming on key"
Thanks for sharing this information.
Makes me wonder how many songs we still haven't heard
No Leaf Clover on the S&M album live with the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra gets my next vote. When you noted you really enjoyed classical orchestration it immediately popped in mind.
I was going to suggest the S&M album as well. Can't go wrong
I absolutely loved the entire S&M album. I’m a fan of all music, but orchestra+metal just makes me so happy
Np Leaf Clover is a piece that Metallica wrote especially for this concert with a symphony orchestra. They showed it to the world for the first time live during this concert. This year in Prague, I heard him live and my legs buckled. Please, analyze it.
The sm2 live version
I came to say this as well. Do an analysis of No Leaf Clover, and then watch the whole Symphony and Metal performance just for fun. 😊
I love Hetfield's solo in this . it's perfect for the song. he is a fantastic guitar player.
Which one? He does both.
James always writes more melodic, song-serving solos. I haven't been a Metallica fan for some time, but I'll always have an immense amount of respect for his musicianship.
Best solo on the album
Papa Het da man
I envy her ability to hear these songs for the first time. It's like a drug you're always chasing what you felt the first time you did it. As many times as ive heard the songs she goes over, i feel myself getting so emotional hearing her say what ive felt so many times hearing these songs. I almost wish i could wipe the songs from my memory and hear them for the first time again. This is the closest I'll get to that and i applaud her for the emotions she purvays and helps us to feel.
Right? And I believe her too! Why would a vocal expert know anything about vocals? Only a fool would listen to music when it's their literal job. Pretending to have not heard Nirvana, ELO, Boston, on and on and on... I mean, seems like you fall for it, so she has a base apparently.
Explore a lot of music outside of your norm or language even. It's really worth the chase.
she heard nothing else matters for the first time in this video? are you joking.
@@eriklarson9137Haters gonna hate. I pity you.
@@eriklarson9137 she's an opera singer. So, I would imagine that her musical preferences would range toward the classic style. Not everyone listens to the same thing that you do. 😮
It is extraordinary to see someone who has never heard this song, to see how she reacts, how she feels it, how she appreciates it, and remember the first time we heard it, remember how we felt in that wonderful moment...
Absolutely 1,000 percent!!! Love you Elizabeth!
How can anyone be over the age of 30 and have never heard this song?
@@adamclark9004depends on how you were raised, been exposed to when growing up and so on. For me, I was exposed to a lot of this because of my brothers but there's a ton of music I'm just starting to discover beyond rock/metal and such.
i know it almost makes me feel as if im hearing the song again for the first time, this is my favorite metallica song. i could listen to it every day for the rest of my life and not ever get bored of it
She is mainly doing reactions to rock and metal songs. I don't believe she is so naive when it comes to metal only because she is an opera singer herself...
Elton John, himself a freaking LEGEND. Made Hetfield almost cry, (I saw a tear, so did Lars. Believe it was a Howard Stern interview) when he said this song is one of the most beautiful songs ever written... My fav song! Although all my boys believe it's Master of Puppets. :)
You raised/raising them right 🤘
🤣😂🤣! Awesome comment, man...made me lol!
One thing I always said when I was all Metallica, all the time, was that they had a song for every emotional state. Glad someone else agrees.
….never thought of that.
What I love about her is that her facial expressions tell even more (which is a lot and very educational) about what she is thinking of the song
Your react videos are one-of-a-kind in that you listen not just with your ears, but your soul. Watching your reactions is the closest thing we can get to listening to the song for the first time again. This one truly is beautiful and marks a special time in my adolescence when I was discovering music other than what I grew up on. It is incredibly nostalgic and makes me feel so happy to listen to. Thank you for giving us such heartfelt content and bringing joy into our lives!
"Why is a Metallica song making my eyes water? It must be the orchestra." Nope, it's the power of the song. It's Metallica.
You're 100% right!
I'd have thought Elizabeth would have figured that out by now.
I’d say papa het magical touch
It’s mostly the orchestra
@@MichaelB769 Listening to the guitar track gives me the same feeling
The orchestration is MASSIVELY important. The song would be good without it, but the orchestration is what makes it great!!!!!
I never thought i'd spend 25 minutes listening to Nothing else matters, but here we are.. 😁 I know nothing about music, but love to hear insights from people who do. Thank you for this. 😊
Yup, me neither and I forgot how good of a song it is. The thing is this song is played in bars to exhaustion so for a while I avoided completely, but here we are.
That intro is still one of my favorite things to play on guitar. It isn't hard to play at all, but playing it with perfect clarity and emotion is really satisfying and it just sounds so melancholy.
So true. I play it also, and once you get the voicing down nothing else matters… 😉
This was the first Metallica song where James really wore his heart on his sleeve. It’s no wonder it’s so beloved. Thank you Elizabeth for reacting to this one!
Since you've done this song, I HIGHLY recommend listening to the Unforgiven trilogy from Metallica. The first one always gives me chills. If you don't want to do another metallica reaction so soon, then I suggest Erase My Scars by Evans Blue. That's another song that sends me to chill city.
The Unforgiven trilogy is amazing
I concur
The Unforgiven is the fist Metallica song i ever heard, i can't explain how or why but it was at that point i learned that music can actually do something to you instead of just being some sound around you.
Without Metallica my life would've been different, that's for sure.
The first one was the only decent song.
No.
Your reactions give me life.. the way your face lights up when you hear something the first time.. is awe inspiring.. like a child on Christmas morning.. just beautiful
I've never felt so relaxed about learning something because the musical education you give is beyond refreshing. You analysize the technicalities of the piece in a straight forward manner yet maintain a level of intensity that makes one know they're learning something but it's enveloped in an atmosphere of enjoyment. Your emotional rawness just adds to the level of genuine honesty.
As a long time Metallica fan, I would love to see your reaction to anything off of the S + M album.
Metallica playing live with a full symphony. It is almost magical.
In my humble opinion, the first S + M album was the best performance they ever did. Absolutely it was magical!
As someone that's been a Metallica fan since 85 and studied classical music for a little longer I have to say I really don't like either of the S&M records. The oddball orchestration detracts from the power of the songs with weird interjections and mistimed exclamations of shrill tones. The song One is a great example of what I dislike. Such a simple melody but the orchestrated parts just detract rather than add. The majestic segue that Metallica had between the slower parts and the heavy "SOS" riff with "Landmine...." is destroyed more than if a shell had landed on it. It's a super simple part when it gets heavy (amazing timing though, so percussive) but Michael Keman was all over the place. It's like throwing spaghetti at the walls and calling it dinner. He could have channeled his inner Chopin or Liszt and gone dark and slow - and made it sound unbelievably evil, which would fit the mood. Instead you get weird blurts that distract.
Being that it was a local show and I'd been a member of the fan club for years, it was fun being there for the occasion but it was far from their most fun show.
As for my other Metallica favorite, Battery: oboe player, why? The melancholy intro is interrupted from the get go by an oboe piece that's the equivalent of some teen walking into a eulogy and blathering on about how bad a pizza at the mall was. It's a song about the raw energy found in SF in the scene around Battery St. The only good thing to come from that recording of Battery was that James had to slow down so everyone else could really keep up and consequently played it heavier than he had done in years.
Jason played bass on this album but his predecessor Cliff loved classical and was a student of not always following the guitar part. It's a shame that Michael isn't of the same ilk.
@@Swampster70 hmm, I agree but some songs like Bleeding Me or Outlaw Torn are a lot better in the S&M versions I think. Some songs didn't work and some songs did
@@Swampster70 I too have studied music to a collegiate level and I have to respectfully disagree with you. Obviously these are both our opinions and nothing more, but I feel that Michael Kamen was very cohesive and tasteful with his orchestration through out the entire concert.
There were many beautifully crafted lines and themes all throughout the concert. Outlaw torn was gorgeous. My all time favorite track "The Thing that Should Not Be" was so full sounding and eeiry.
As far Jason being there, unfortunately seeing as Cliff passed and Jason got given next to no creative freedom. As a result. Jason was (as far as a solid stage presence and bass player goes) Was the best bassist they had post Cliff.
He also plays very well in "The Call of Ktulu" which, as you know doesn't just follow the guitar tracks at all.
Plus all the guys were really just on form in the SnM 1 performance that was released.
An overrated metal band live ... good songs but mediocre live performance.
It’s so thrilling to watch you being struck by the magical places that this song delivers. we know they are approaching and can’t wait to see your reactions. It’s so validating.
It is very enchanting watching the emotions this girl goes through with every note
We hired a harp player for a wedding and she busted this out randomly. it was enchanting and awesome all at once.
I've listened to this song literally thousands of times in the 31 years since its release and it still gives me goosebumps. I had my first real kiss to the intro and beat drop of this song. It holds a special place in my heart.
Yes, 16 year old me was wondering when you would finally get to this song. It’s been a song I have listened to a bunch in my Highschool years. It’s loaded with memories from how I was back then. A tall, shy and skinny adolescent.
That was me in the early 80s, seems like several lifetimes ago yet some of the memories are still as fresh as if it were yesterday.
I wish I listened to Metallica in my early HS years. Was too busy listening to Pink Floyd to care. Until about late Junior year when I started listening to all types of metal.
Metallica is ingrained in my teenage years.! So many good times, and got me through the worst of times! So much so that when I became widowed at the age of 21, we played "Mama Said", one of his surprisingly favorites at that time, at his funeral. Wasn't a dry eye in the place. ❤️🤟
Same. I was 14 when the Black album broke and it was so epic. Something that will stay with me always. The only other music that hit me as hard was GNR Appetite for destruction album , Chili Peppers Under the Bridge song, and Nirvana Teen Spirit song.
Admittedly I didn’t really get to GNR until 13 years of age because in ‘86 I wasn’t listening to metal yet.
I love so much of the 80’s music and it will always be my favorite era followed by the 70’s, but maybe it was because I was at the right age or whatever, but the music I listed hit me the hardest and I really really miss those days. Plus the 80’s because being a kid in the 80’s is something I would never change. 🤙🏻
“Nothing Else Matters” is a ballad about being honest with your feelings and expressing them. In a 2012 interview with The Village Voice, Hetfield spoke about the intention of the track, its meanings and how it came to be: “It was a song for myself in my room on tour when I was bumming out about being away from home.
A friend of mine died a year ago and had this song playing at his funeral. His death was a shock to everyone that knew him and this song always hits home, I cannot but think of him every time I hear it.
There was a recent beautiful moment on the Howard stern show of all places. Metallica celebrating their 30th anniversary of this, the Black Album, did an appearance and played this song, strangely, with Miley Cirus. Miley covered this song on a tribute album also for the anniversary with Elton John. Elton John called into the show and while talking to Howard with the boys in Metallica listening, stated that this song was one of the best songs ever written. The look on James’ face,while almost brought to tears, is priceless. You could tell it meant the world to him. Stuff like that always gets to me.
I’m pretty sure that, like everything else on Howard’s show, and most others, that was planned. Unless Elton was just sitting at home listening to the Howard Stern show and was like ‘Ooh, Metallica! I should call them.’
@@MichaelB769 I explained exactly why Elton was on the phone. He had just finished recording a cover of nothing else matters with Miley Cyrus.
@@Stevil3113 Okay so it was pre-planned then. Ok ty.
@@Stevil3113 Sorry I thought you were talking about the version she did with Metallica; it’s been a long day. lol
@@Stevil3113likely pre planned but that doesn’t mean James knew he would call in and even if he did he may not have known what Elton would say. His reaction seemed genuine.
I’ve listened to this song countless times since it’s release, and have never experienced such emotion with it until watching you break it down here. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and emotions on this piece. Wonderful!
Dude I know ! Right! Amazing!
The Elizabeth experience. She’s made me emotional on a few occasions. Her breakdowns and insight make it almost as if I’m sitting in a room with the artist and they are telling me all of the finite details of composing a piece.
James Hetfield said in a old interview that he wrote the song from hotel room to hotel room and he was inspired by thinking how difficult is to hold a healthy relationship with someone while being on the road all the time(traveling so much).
He also said that ‘Nothing Else Matters’ is his favorite song from the band.
Exactly, originally the song was never meant for a Metallica album. Then Lars heard it and the guys managed to convince James to put it on the Black Album.
@@destructionnl8165 Stfų
@@destructionnl8165 🤡
@@destructionnl8165 Lars calling the right shots damn
@@lord2.0works Well yeah, people can say about Lars what they want but he has a feel for what works or not.
One of the greatest songs ever written. Shows true musicianship. I love the meaning behind the song. It can literally relate to anything in any person's life. Great analysis! Subbed!
This song hits the heart for me in more ways than one. I love using "Nothing Else Matters" as a way to introduce Metallica and heavy metal in general to people who otherwise often think that metal is just noise. It's one of the first songs that I decided to learn the lyrics to, and not to mention my wife and I snuck it into our first dance at our wedding. Now every time I hear this song, I think of that special moment
Check out Mylie Cyrus's version...
Easily one of the most romantic songs on earth.
One of the greatest moments in my life was having this song as the first dance at my wedding. My wife and I are both huge Metallica fans so to be able to celebrate our day with a song like this was amazing.
While not the most loved era of the band, 90s Metallica was a great showcase for James Hetfield's Vocals. "Hero of the Day", "Bleeding Me", "Low Man's Lyric" and "No Leaf Clover" all show great depth that he didn't have before...and probably not since. All are worthy of your great vocal analysis!
I definitely love 80s Metallica more than 90s Metallica, but Hero of the Day is just an amazing song to sing along with. It's just fantastic.
An no one ever mentions Mama Said.. Mama Said is probably one of their most underrated songs..
90’s Met = criminally underrated.
Bleeding Me indeed. I think most of Load and ReLoad.
I love 80s Metallica, but I actually prefer 90s Metallica. I feel it's a richer array of their talent.
Experiencing your genuine smile during this masterpiece is like hearing it for the first time again. This song never gets old.
I would like you to do a reaction of the Cranberries, particularly “Dreams” or “Linger.” Dolores O’Riordan (the lead singer) has a beautifully haunting and expressive voice--one of my all-time favorites. Sadly, she is no longer with us, and that thought brings a tear to my eye, mainly through regret that I never have and will never see her perform live.
Yes, & also Emma Ruth Rundle’s (who has covered The Cranberries’ song ‘Hollywood’) music & particularly her singing voice 😌🖤
@@jinabrasser9439 I’ve never heard of her. I’ll have to look her up.
@@tomd1969 she did the cover along with a doom/sludge metal band called Thou, but if you check out the rest of her music you’ll see she’s more into the shoegaze & even the folk genre of music 😌🖤
Definitely
I wait for it too..
This came out after James first started taking voice lessons. He wrote these lyrics and was super worried the band wouldn't accept it, because it was a ballad.
He put himself out there, swung with all his heart, and knocked it out of the park, hahah
Yeah and the voice lessons have totally paid off. He still sounds incredible if not better these days whilst other singers have blown / worn out their vocal chords
Just like Green Day, Time of your Life. Billie thought it was wildy different and almost didn't put it on the album. Glad he did
@@TheNish101 I agree, I think James's vocals have improved with age. His Pre-Black Album vocals are iconic, but there's no comparison in the quality of his vocals from the Black Album - present day. He's not fancy, he may not have a crazy range, but he's a great vocalist and it works perfectly for Metallica!
F.t.b is a ballad
Unforgiven I, II, III are my suggestions. I think the 3 part across multiple albums is unique.
Agreed 👍🏼
Absolutely also creeping death and for whom the bell tolls
It's a perfect way to explore how James' voice evolved over the years
Was just browsing the comments to see if someone didn't mention it already. 👍
Here's to hoping! 🤞
I started to suggest Unforgiven III to her. It has one of Kirk's best solos ever! After St. Anger, I bet he couldn't wait to do solos again lol.
SO happy you use the term ANALYSIS instead of the usual click hunting 'reaction' or 'first listen'. I love your videos, you are interesting, informative and beautiful. No need for any misleading titles, just do you, honestly, we will all still be here.
Honestly one of the best Metallica songs ever. Such a beautiful song. The lyrics, the music itself, just wonderful. Glad you chose this song.
Oh yes!! This song still sends shivers down my spin no matter how many times I hear it! Fantastic reaction as always!
This is why soooo many true musicians love metal. The possibilities of combinations are truly endless. This song is a perfect example. It can be played acoustically, full band, or with a full orchestra behind it. You should definitely check out their first tour with an orchestra. You’ll get those “wash over” feelings all the time.
This song has really helped me . After my wife had a mastectomy for breast cancer , making her listen to this allowed her to believe my feelings for her had not changed , James is a god
I love that it made you cry a little. Seeing someone moved to tears by music is one of the most beautiful things in this world.
Watching James reaction when Elton John called this one of the most beautiful pieces of music is priceless.
yes this!
Can't believe you lived your whole life without listen to this masterpiece 'til now.
This song always makes me wanna cry, especially when the guitar solo is about to start.
It gives me goosebumps EVERY TIME.
Your ability to dissect music and tell it into a story is unrivalled. The way you melt into (imo) the greatest song of all time speaks volumes in how metallica also has the ability to tell a story. I love your work.
Your final comments say it all. Magic! Genius talent across the board!! One of the most miss understood and overlooked best bands of the last50 years!!!!
The incredible thing about this song is that it's written in such a way that it can mean something very specific for each listener. It's powerful and beautiful, and I think entirely appropriate to feel strong emotions when hearing this song for the first or thousandth time.
Yeah, it's an astonishing song and rightfully considered an all time classic. It's probably one of the most covered songs ever (seriously, there are some great covers out there) and I have listened to it countless times. But I have no idea what it's actually about. :p
The Black album got me into these guys. The older kids preferred their older albums, and considered Black to be their selling-out point. Truth be told, I think Black is peak Metallica, and I am glad you got to hear this amazing gem from that album!
This album also got me into these guys. I also agree this was Metallica AR their peak, but I still prefer their older albums. However, all of their albums are amazing and my mood decides the album I'm listening too.
I always found it so ridiculous to say a band is selling out. It's their band, they can make whatever music they want.
Oh,I remember how furious many longtime hardcore fans were when this album was released! Sellout was the kindest thing said.There was a sense of betrayal...but bands can't make the same albums over and over,and they need to stretch and explore or they won't grow.The band or the members of the band.I'm very happy to know that a lot of people really love the Black album.It's the source of many songs I love,not just Metallica songs but songs in general.
@@joe7917 nahh...there are bands/artist that sell out and become mediocre for the sake of money and satisfying the public
I remember this. I was in the older kids that had cut my teeth on all the earlier albums.
I could never understand what they saw as selling out.
Yes, the worked with Bob Rock to format their songs for better acceptance with radio. But that partnership brought so much artistic growth as well.
This is probably one of the greatest songs to ever be, and among my personal favorites. I have listened to Nothing Else Matters and the rest of the "Black" album countless times since I bought it with my allowance money back in 1991. I was 13 years old at the time, and it really made me appreciate music, and got me into the hobby. When I hear it my heart fills with nostalgia, and brings back such fond memories.
I found your channel yesterday, and i cannot stop watching, you have such a great personality and you notice thing i never have. I grew up with this song, i know ever work and learned to play it and you pointed out things i never noticed. Love it!! Thank you for showing me to look at music with more detail!
My mom and I slow danced to this at my high school graduation party which was 9 days before I left for us navy boot camp back in 2002. This song will always hold a special place in my heart ❤️.
I was soooo moved by your treatment of this song. Moved me to tears along with yours. Thank you… Absolutely brilliant work here!
Cool name dude 😄
@@chrismoore7882 - Indeed, indeed. 😎 🙌
This has quickly become my favorite RUclips channel. To have the songs I grew up listening to, and not understanding then why they were so impactful and beautiful, to now have you so beautifully explain is really something special. Thanks for always bringing such quality and respectful analysis. I now have a deeper appreciation for what many of these bands have accomplished.
Watching you listen to this is so entertaining. Your reactions and love of the music is as good as the song itself. The vulnerable, passionate, pleasure, excitement and love you show are absolutely beautiful. You are stunning.
it's probably been said before. but the orchestra in the background is arranged by Michael Kamen. Michael once said in an interview that he was surprised that his arrangements for Nothing Else Matters were so soft in the final mix. when he spoke to the band at an award show, he said that they should do an orchestral show with his arrangements. After years of not hearing anything, Michael suddenly received a message from Metallica: “we want to do that concert with you that you were talking about last” 😆 And that's how Symphony & Metallica came out in 1999.
a challenging song for james' singing is Bleeding Me. If you want to analyze a metallica song again, this one is very cool with the orchestra behind the band!
I saw that concert at Madison Square Garden and it was so amazing!
There are so many good songs from Load she could do. Outlaw Torn is my all time favorite song of theirs, got through some real lows.
Michael Kamen is a top movie score conductor.
James Hetfield was on the Howard Stern show and Elton John phoned in. Elton told James that "Nothing Else Matters" was, in his opinion, one of the greatest songs ever written regardless of genre, and it caused Hetfield to cry a bit. It was a touching moment...
Wow, that would be a mind-blowing moment. I would probably cry too lol, I don't think James gets the recognition he deserves as a vocalist and a songwriter. Metallica is the biggest band in the world and sometimes that's a bad thing, it causes people to overlook an individual member's genius.
And Miley Cyrus nailed it!
I also love the commentary on James' vocal slide and how it echoes the slide on a guitar. Very astute! Yep! He's a guitarist!
One thing i love about watching Elizabeths reaction videos is that you can see from her face expressions that she pays attention to every detail of each song. ❤❤ Elizabeth if you like the orchestrational part underneath you should listen to the s&m version of the song
Have been waiting for this day. Not only is this one of Metallica's greatest songs, it's easily one of the greatest songs ever. The more Metallica music you explore, the more you'll love them. They have something for pretty much everyone. 40+ years of making and playing music and still going strong!
I'm with the others on these suggestions. The Outlaw Torn, Bleeding Me, and No Leaf Clover all from S&M 1999. Metallica played with the San Fransisco Symphony for that show, and the whole thing is just amazing.
Omg, I just love how Elizabeth can pick up on the deep emotion this song evokes! This song has made me cry and almost always gives me goosebumps. Thanks Elizabeth for your intelligent and emotionally honest analysis of this song! Xx
I totally got the goosebumps! I forgot about those with this song. I don't really listen to Metallica as much these days as I did in my youth.
I strongly recommend "The Outlaw Torn" and "Bleeding Me" from S&M. Both of those songs are probably James' greatest vocal pieces, and S&M includes the San Fransisco Symphony for the entire show. My favorite version of "Bleeding Me" is actually Woodstock '99, but there is a topless woman in the crowd that it shows for a second or two (might want to cut that part out if you react to it).
No Leaf Clover is a killer one from S&M as well.
Agreed. And "No Leaf Cover"
Unforgiven 3 too. Wierd to watch James without his axe. But I have always been obsessed with bleeding me in terms of him singing it and the lyrics. Such a good song.
Bleeding Me from S&M is one of my favorite Metallica tracks. The song itself is great, but Michael Kamen’s orchestration is just beautiful.
S&M Until it Sleeps is amazing. IMO, that's how that song should have always been.
When i'm in a sad mood or don't feeling so well i'm put this song on and floating away in bliss. Such a beautiful ballad from this great metalband.
"It's just simple... and well done." Describes every great Metallica song, riff and melody. They are masters of making songs which sound "simple" or look "simple" to play when you read the music, but replicating it to make it *feel* just right takes an insane level of skill and commitment.
Can't wait to see what next Metallica piece you cover next. I think Battery (Seattle '89) should definitely be on your radar, lots of fast articulation and PURE energy from their absolute peak.
Is battery easy and simple to play, but difficult to replicate?
@@stanleymyrick4068 I honestly think Battery is extremely hard to replicate. Dream Theater's version of Battery is a great example (a band that I absolutely love btw). They play it perfectly note for note, and they are outstanding musicians, all of them. They absolutely have what it takes to play it perfectly and they do (vocals aside, which are obviously the hardest thing to replicate). They nailed the tone of the instruments, the tempo is flawless, the small details are all present, they are tight af, everything you could expect is there... yet it doesn't sound quite right. It's just not Metallica. People can talk all they want about how Metallica are sloppy sometimes and what not, but man they truly have a thing of their own that you can't replace with anything else. It just has to be them for it to sound good.
@@nicosimioni7363 there absolutely is just something about them. Seeing them live is something else. Last time I saw them Godsmack played just before they did. Godsmack put on a good show, for sure. But when Metallica plays, there's an energy there that most other bands don't have, it's an energy that goes beyond the music. The music alone doesn't explain the energy you feel.
I've seen a lot of bands live and while I've been to some GREAT concerts, there is nothing quite like Metallica. Say whatever you want about them. I grew up with them. I've seen them 3 times and I can't get enough. They'll always be my favorite band no matter what. They are the reason why I love metal.
The Metallica concert I went to they turned down the lights and James sat on stool and played this song acoustically. Totally stripped down and purely amazing.
He took his clothes off?? 😉
@@jdunnatl Lars: Ayo James, put your clothes back on
I have heard this song thousands of times, and your insights have brought new depth and meaning to me. I appreciate all you do!
Elizabeth, you are head and shoulders the best in the “vocal coach reacts” genre. Your energy, emotion, knowledge, and natural joy is amazing
Band members James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich wrote this. According to Hetfield, he wrote the song about a girlfriend he once had, but when he looks back at it, he can't remember why he wrote it. Now, Metallica just considers it a song about their fans, because nothing else matters but their fans.
The orchestration in the song was arranged by Michael Kamen, who also conducted the San Francisco Symphony orchestra. This song appears on Metallica's 1999 live album S&M, which was recorded with the San Francisco Symphony orchestra. >>
James Hetfield has cited the band's constant touring as an inspiration for this song. They wrote pieces of the song on their tour bus and in numerous hotels.
This is one of the few Metallica songs where James Hetfield played the guitar solo rather than Kirk Hammett.
Hetfield explained this song to Mojo magazine December 2008. Said the Metallica singer: "It's about being on the road, missing someone at home, but it was written in such a way, it connected with so many people, that it wasn't just about two people, it was about a connection with your higher power, lots of different things
Hetfield told Mojo that after penning this love ballad, he was initially concerned about playing it to the rest of the band. He explained: "At first I didn't even want to play it for the guys. I thought that Metallica could only be the four of us. These are songs about destroying things, head banging, bleeding for the crowd, whatever it is, as long as it wasn't about chicks and fast cars, even though that's what we liked. The song was about a girlfriend at the time. It turned out to be a pretty big song.
Hammett not wrote this ;) James record all guitar lines on this song ;)
He wrote the basis of the song and nearly didn't show the band as it was so personal and 'not a Metallica song' in his mind. I think he ended up showing it to Lars and he was adamant that it needed to be on the album. I for one am glad he did!
And also, it was from Black album, 1991. Nevertheless - my most favourite song)
"Nothing Else Matters" was the ballad on the "Black Album" aka "Metallica, Metallica." There are orchestral versions in S&M and S&M2.
Please James.. On stage , Sing Nothing else matters and ESPECIALLY the unforgiven the exact same way you did on the album! 🙏😭
It's shame.James is like forgot how to sing those songs (even if he got better at singing he ruins the original material )
I love the commentary, the details, the incredible interpretation, but honestly it is just seeing your smile when you recognize "awesomeness"
Orchestrations in the back of the “choruses” were composed by maestro Michael Kamen, whom more or less 10 years later will conduct San Francisco Symphony Orchestra in the concert with Metallica, playing a whole Metallica set …you should definitely check it out
i have that on DVD great show.
@@markvanderstelt8999 Kamen looks like he could be Mike Portnoy's dad in S&M 🙂
No Leaf Clover comes to mind.
Outlaw torn - sm2 is the best
He'll yes. S & M shows how talented Metallica are at song writing. To have other genres work at the same time and get even stronger is amazing.
The most talented and absolutely the best person on the planet to evaluate anything anyone could or would sing. Elizabeth is a professional trained singer with a pedigree of education that is from the best of the best classical trained singers so we need to just pay attention to what she says
My late wife selected this as one of the songs to play at her funeral/ celebration at life. It was also one of the songs that was mellow enough to put our infant to sleep.
Thank you Elizabeth!! This song has been special to me for decades now, it’s nice to see it treated so honorably.
The S&M versions of Bleeding Me and The Outlaw Torn have phenomenal vocals.
bleeding me is one of their best songs
@@mrendere5825 it was part of my old bands setlist. Not their most difficult song to play but such a fun one.
Yessssss!
Agree
That recording of Bleeding Me is one of the best live performances of their entire career and catalogue. Second the recommendation.
Metallica has been a huge part of my life since 1986. They’ve saved me many times. This song was the song my daughter chose for our first dance at her wedding. Incredibly emotional.
So crazy how this came out 31 years ago, and they are still killing it!
"Cinematic"
Perfect description for Metallica's classic tracks. They were known for having long instrumental intros like this, which went so well with the music they wrote. They were so far ahead of their time it's actually ridiculous. The is one of the best songs ever written, in history, in my opinion.
Such a beautiful song. The opening riff has got to be one of the most famous guitar riffs of all time. Everyone who plays guitar learns it.
James' voice has so much power and emotion in this song too.
It's an exercise for fingerpicking. Thumb low E, middle G, ring B, pinky high e. Hetfield was working on the strumming pattern to improve his fingerpicking and that pattern gave him an idea.
Everyone plays it because it's the easiest thing in the world to play. The first couple of bars are all open notes. It sounds great, but you can literally never have touched a guitar before and be able to play it in 2 minutes.
Nothing Else Matters is the most defiant song they ever have done. It says I don't care what you do, say i am me and it doesn't matter what you say, nothing else matters but staying true to me.
James was on spot with his vocals abilities and they guys again are amazing. Not over doing a thing. Punctuation is spot on. Happy with whatever comes no matter what. This song speaks to the soul. It's metal yeah but it defines what was always there and most ignored. This is genius. Sadly most will never "hear" it. Keep diving.
I'm sure this has already been said (and also that it's likely very hard to do) but I think we need a Tea Time with James.
If I could like this comment 100k times I so effing would. Please make this happen!
Absolutely the best vocal analysis of songs in general. Love the amount of knowledge you have on the subject, and that you share it freely with the world making us all smarter. Bringing us all up. You are such a boon to this world. Never stop.
People don't get how musically beautiful hard rock and metal music truly is, especially when compared to the overproduced, radio friendly hip hop and pop genres. I fell in love with this music at a young age because the musicianship of it, the brilliant and deep writing, the raw emotion of it spoke to me like nothing else.
How do You do this?
The way you dissect and also appreciate a song. You have a very gifted ear and brain to evaluate music. That's why I keep coming back. Keep going!
For whatever reason, I haven’t heard this song in years, and you just reminded me of how beautiful a piece it is. Thank you, I’m going to add it into my regular playlist again…
Definitely give ‘unforgiven’ a listen, got some really cool vocals you would love to hear. Thank you for the video
That would be great one
Not only that the lyrics are just amazing metallica in their prime
I totally agree, you need to listen to this song
On the list.
31 years later, this song is still a masterpiece
62 years later and this song will still be a masterpiece!....🤘
More so