Absolutely! It’s undeniable that Metallica‘s legendary track “Nothing Else Matters” stands as one of the most inspirational songs ever created. Interestingly, many fans of other genres, beyond rock and metal, also adore this song.
In compiling my list, I will strive to remain objective and set aside my personal favorites. This compilation is grounded in popularity metrics such as YouTube views, streaming statistics, critical acclaim, chart performance, and how often the song is referenced across music platforms and discussions.
I have prioritised versions from both well-known and indie artists, viral sensations, and contributions from significant tribute projects like The Metallica Blacklist (2021). The rankings are approximate and draw from various sources, including Wikipedia, Billboard, Reddit, etc. Each entry features the artist, year, key details, and its significance.
I hope this marks the beginning of a series celebrating the hits that have transformed our lives…
Lazywall, a Moroccan alternative rock band known for blending rock with traditional North African influences, released an Arabic cover of Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters” just two days ago (September 27, 2025). This version incorporates Arabic lyrics and instrumentation like the guembri (a traditional bass lute) alongside bass and vocals by band member Nao. It’s available on their official YouTube channel, with around 620 views and growing interest, including a reaction video from fans.
Apocalyptica (1998) An iconic cello-metal instrumental from Inquisition Symphony. As one of the earliest major covers, it’s a staple in classical-metal crossovers, with tens of millions of YouTube views.
Post Malone (2018) A stripped-down acoustic live cover performed on tour. Known for its heartfelt delivery, it bridges hip-hop and rock, amassing significant online buzz and views.
Gregorian (1999) A Gregorian chant-style version from Masters of Chant. This ethereal tribute transforms the ballad into a meditative piece, popular in ambient and crossover playlists.
Staind (2003) A heavy acoustic-rock cover performed for MTV Icon: Metallica. Aaron Lewis’s gritty vocals make it a staple in nu-metal tributes, with enduring popularity.
Bif Naked (2002) A punk-rock cover with raw energy, from her album Purge. It’s a high-energy tribute popular in alternative rock circles.
Die Krupps (1997) An industrial-metal version from The Final Remixes. One of the oldest covers, it adds electronic aggression, appealing to industrial fans.
First to Eleven (2020) A full-band rock cover with female vocals, gaining traction on YouTube for its faithful yet fresh energy. It’s frequently cited in fan lists of best modern takes.
My Morning Jacket (2021) A psychedelic-rock reworking from The Metallica Blacklist, with dreamy guitars and vocals. It’s highlighted for its creative deviation from the original.
Lucie Silvas (2005) A pop-acoustic single from Breathe In, which charted in Europe (e.g., top 40 in the Netherlands). It’s a softer, radio-friendly homage that emphasizes the song’s romantic lyrics.
Chris Stapleton (2021) A soulful country-acoustic take from The Metallica Blacklist, praised for its raw vocals and emotional depth. Fans often call it superior to the original in discussions, with strong streaming numbers.
Phoebe Bridgers (2021) An indie-folk reinterpretation from The Metallica Blacklist, featuring haunting vocals and minimal production. It’s celebrated for its introspective vibe and appeals to alternative audiences.
Steve’n’Seagulls (2015) A bluegrass-folk live cover with banjos and quirky instrumentation. Known for its humorous yet skillful viral appeal, it has millions of YouTube views.
Darius Rucker (2021) A country-rock version from The Metallica Blacklist, blending Rucker’s soulful voice with twangy guitars. It’s a fan favorite in country-metal crossovers.
Dave Gahan (2021) An electronic-tinged take from The Metallica Blacklist by the Depeche Mode frontman. It’s a dark, synth-driven homage that stands out for its new wave influence.
Macy Gray (2001) A soulful, jazzy rendition emphasizing emotional delivery. Featured in various compilations, it’s noted for its unique vocal stylings and R&B twist.
Mon Laferte (2021) A Latin-infused ballad from The Metallica Blacklist, sung in Spanish with passionate vocals. It brings cultural diversity to the tributes.
Dermot Kennedy (2021) An acoustic-folk cover from The Metallica Blacklist, focusing on intimate storytelling. Popular for its modern singer-songwriter approach.
Mickey Guyton (2021) A country-soul version from The Metallica Blacklist, with powerful vocals and emotional resonance. It’s a standout for its genre-blending tribute.
Shakira (2011) A live medley blending “Nothing Else Matters” with her song “Despedida” from The Sun Comes Out World Tour. The emotional, bilingual performance highlights her vocal range and has garnered millions of views.
Miley Cyrus feat. WATT, Elton John, Yo-Yo Ma, Robert Trujillo, Chad Smith (2021) From The Metallica Blacklist, this star-studded rock-pop rendition blends piano, cello, and orchestral elements for a dramatic reimagining. It’s one of the most high-profile tributes, with millions of streams and views.
- Can’t spot your ultimate cover of Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters” here? Give us a shout with your top pick!
