Miley Cyrus and Metallica deliver an incredible rendition of “Nothing Else Matters.”
The magic unfolds when polar opposites merge to create something extraordinary. This was the case with Miley Cyrus’s rendition of Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters.” Miley, the progeny of the iconic country musician Billy Ray Cyrus, gained fame through her role in the teen series “Hannah Montana.”
Her career since has spanned across pop, country, and rock music. Metallica, conversely, has remained a stalwart in the heavy metal scene, recently gaining renewed attention with “Master of Puppets” featured in Netflix’s “Stranger Things.”
Despite the apparent mismatch, Miley Cyrus found a deep connection with “Nothing Else Matters,” incorporating it into her Glastonbury 2019 set amidst personal upheavals like her impending divorce and the loss of her home in the California wildfires.
She shared, “This song was my anchor, as nothing else mattered. My personal life was crumbling, yet my passion for music remained intact.”
Miley’s cover later featured on “The Blacklist,” a 2021 tribute album where various artists reimagined Metallica’s 1991 self-titled album, also known as “The Black Album.”
In her interpretation, Elton John’s piano accompaniment adds depth, while Miley’s gritty vocals bring a poignant emotion to the piece.
For those yet to experience Miley’s take on “Nothing Else Matters,” it’s a must-listen, regardless of your allegiance to Metallica or Miley. Her 2021 performance on The Howard Stern Show, despite the geographical separation due to Covid, showcases the song’s powerful rendition.
Metallica’s James Hetfield stepping back to support Miley’s lead vocals may seem unusual, but the performance was seamless. Hetfield also reflected on the song’s vulnerability, a departure from their “tough guy” image.
This collaboration highlights an unexpected but profound synergy, showcasing a softer side of Metallica and Miley’s ability to capture the song’s essence, making this rendition truly special.