“Nothing Else Matters” Metallica Ukulele CHORDS

“Nothing Else Matters” is a song by the American heavy metal band Metallica.

It was written by the band’s lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, James Hetfield, and it was released as a single from their self-titled fifth studio album, commonly known as “The Black Album,” in 1992.

Ukulele Tutorial Video

Strumming Pattern

The strumming pattern for Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters” can be a bit challenging to describe precisely because it incorporates both fingerpicking and strumming. The song’s acoustic intro is fingerpicked, while the strumming pattern is introduced when the electric guitars kick in.

Here’s a basic strumming pattern you can use for the main part of the song once the electric guitars come in:

Down, Down, Up, Up, Down, Up

This pattern is repeated for each chord change in the song.

Official Music Video

Song Facts

Here are some interesting facts about Metallica’s song “Nothing Else Matters”:

1. Unusual for Metallica: “Nothing Else Matters” is considered unusual in Metallica’s discography because of its softer, more melodic sound. Metallica is known for their heavy and aggressive thrash metal music, but this song demonstrated their versatility and ability to explore different musical styles.
2. Originally a Personal Song: James Hetfield wrote the song primarily for himself and his then-girlfriend. It was an intimate and personal composition that later became one of Metallica’s most iconic songs. The lyrics reflect Hetfield’s feelings and a sense of vulnerability.
3. Bob Rock’s Influence: Producer Bob Rock had a significant influence on the song’s sound. He encouraged the band to explore their softer side and pushed for the inclusion of the orchestral arrangements that give the song its distinct texture.
4. Symphonic Elements: The song features symphonic elements, including strings, which were arranged by Michael Kamen. This added layer of orchestration contributes to the song’s grand and epic quality.
5. Commercial Success: “Nothing Else Matters” was a commercial success for Metallica. It reached high chart positions in several countries and received significant radio airplay, introducing the band to a broader audience.
6. Cover Versions: The song has been covered by numerous artists from various genres, including classical musicians, showcasing its universal appeal. Its emotional depth and beautiful melody make it a popular choice for reinterpretation.
7. Live Performances: Metallica has performed “Nothing Else Matters” at almost every one of their concerts since its release. It is often a standout moment in their live shows, with James Hetfield delivering an emotive vocal performance.
8. Acoustic Intro: The song is known for its iconic acoustic guitar intro, which is instantly recognizable. This intro is often played on the classical guitar and is considered one of the most famous guitar riffs in rock music.
9. Grammy Nominations: “Nothing Else Matters” received Grammy Award nominations for “Song of the Year” and “Best Rock Song” in 1992. Although it didn’t win, the nominations were a testament to the song’s impact.
10. Timeless Appeal: Despite being released in the early 1990s, “Nothing Else Matters” continues to be a beloved and enduring classic. It resonates with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, making it one of Metallica’s most timeless and universally acclaimed songs.

Text Version of Ukulele Chords

[Intro]
Em Am Am/B C
D Em D C Em
D C Em D C G B7
Em
 
 
[Verse 1]
Em                    D       C
  So close, no matter how far.
Em                      D              C
  Couldn't be much more from the heart.
Em                 D          C
  Forever trusting who we are,
G    B7           Em
 and nothing else matters.
 
 
[Verse 2]
               D             C
Never opened myself this way.
Em                         D       C
  Life is ours, we live it our way.
Em                        D        C
  All these words I don't just say,
G    B7           Em
 and nothing else matters.
 
 
[Verse 3]
Em                   D           C
  Trust I seek and I find in you.
Em                 D             C
  Every day for us something new.
Em                D              C
  Open mind for a different view,
G    B7           Em
 And nothing else matters.
 
 
[Chorus]
C A D                          C A
     Never cared for what they do
D                          C    A
 Never cared for what they know,
   D      Em
Oh, but I know.
 
 
[Verse 4]
Em                    D      C
  So close, no matter how far
Em                      D              C Em
  Couldn't be much more from the heart.
                 D          C
Forever trusting who we are,
G    B7           Em
 And nothing else matters.
 
 
[Chorus]
C A D                          C  A
     Never cared for what they do.
D                          C    A
 Never cared for what they know,
   D      Em
Oh, but I know.
 
 
[Break]
Em Am C D
Em Am C D
Em
 
 
[Verse 5]
Em                 D             C
  I never opened myself this way.
Em                        D        C
  Life is ours, we live it our way.
Em                        D        C
  All these words I don't just say,
G    B7           Em
 And nothing else matters.
 
 
[Verse 6]
                   D           C
Trust I seek and I find in you.
Em                 D             C
  Every day for us something new.
Em                D             C
  Open mind for a different view
G    B7           Em
 And nothing else matters.
 
 
[Chorus]
C A D                          C   A
     Never cared for what they say.
D                           C    A
 Never cared for games they play.
D                          C  A
 Never cared for what they do.
D                          C    A
 Never cared for what they know,
   D      Em
Oh, and I know.
 
 
[Guitar Solo]
Em D C Em D C
Em D C G B7 Em
 
 
[Verse 7]
Em                    D       C
  So close, no matter how far.
Em                     D               C
  Couldn't be much more from the heart.
Em                 D          C
  Forever trusting who we are.
G    B7           Em
 No, nothing else matters.
 
 
[Outro]
Em

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the basic ukulele chords used in “Nothing Else Matters” by Metallica?
   • The basic ukulele chords used in the song are E minor (Em), D major (D), C major (C), and G major (G).
2. What is the strumming pattern for “Nothing Else Matters” on the ukulele?
   • The strumming pattern for this song can vary, but a common pattern is down, down, up, up, down, up for each chord change.
3. What is the chord progression for the verse of “Nothing Else Matters” on the ukulele?
   • The chord progression for the verse is Em – D – Em – D.
4. Which Metallica album features “Nothing Else Matters”?
   • “Nothing Else Matters” is featured on Metallica’s self-titled album, often referred to as “The Black Album,” released in 1991.
5. What key is “Nothing Else Matters” in for ukulele players?
   • The song is in the key of E minor (Em) for ukulele players.
6. What is the bridge section of “Nothing Else Matters” on the ukulele?
   • The bridge section of the song features the chords C – G – Am – Am.
7. What technique can be used to create a more melodic and arpeggiated sound when playing “Nothing Else Matters” on the ukulele?
   • Fingerpicking or arpeggio picking can be used to create a more melodic and intricate sound when playing the song.
8. What is the significance of the song’s lyrics in “Nothing Else Matters”?
   • The lyrics express themes of love, trust, and commitment, and they reflect the personal nature of the song, written by James Hetfield for his then-girlfriend.
9. Can you play “Nothing Else Matters” using a capo on the ukulele?
   • Yes, you can use a capo to change the key and make it easier to play. Placing a capo on the 4th fret allows you to play the chords Am – G – F – F, which might be more comfortable for some players.
10. What is the overall mood and style of “Nothing Else Matters” on the ukulele?
    • “Nothing Else Matters” has a melancholic and introspective mood, with a blend of rock and ballad elements. On the ukulele, it retains its emotional depth and can be played with a soft, delicate touch to capture the song’s essence.
11. What is the duration of the song “Nothing Else Matters” by Metallica?
    • The song “Nothing Else Matters” has a duration of approximately 6 minutes and 29 seconds.
12. What is the signature guitar solo in “Nothing Else Matters,” and can it be played on the ukulele?
    • The song features a signature guitar solo, but it’s not typically played on the ukulele due to the instrument’s limitations for soloing.
13. Are there any alternative chord progressions for “Nothing Else Matters” on the ukulele?
    • While the basic chord progression is Em – D – Em – D, some players may choose to add variations or embellishments to make it more interesting.
14. What is the tempo of “Nothing Else Matters”?
    • The tempo of “Nothing Else Matters” is approximately 46-50 beats per minute (BPM).
15. Who wrote “Nothing Else Matters” in Metallica?
    • “Nothing Else Matters” was primarily written by James Hetfield, Metallica’s vocalist and rhythm guitarist.
16. What is the significance of the song’s title, “Nothing Else Matters”?
    • The title reflects the theme of prioritizing what truly matters in life, such as love and relationships, over other distractions or concerns.
17. Can the song be played on a soprano, concert, or tenor ukulele?
    • Yes, “Nothing Else Matters” can be played on soprano, concert, or tenor ukuleles with the same chord progressions and finger positions.
18. What are some common ukulele fingerpicking patterns that can be used for “Nothing Else Matters”?
    • Common fingerpicking patterns include alternating thumb and finger picking, as well as picking the individual strings of each chord to create a melodic arrangement.
19. What is the significance of “Nothing Else Matters” in Metallica’s discography?
    • The song is known for its departure from Metallica’s usual heavy metal sound, showcasing the band’s versatility and ability to create more melodic and introspective music.
20. Can you recommend any tutorials or resources for learning to play “Nothing Else Matters” on the ukulele?
    • There are many online tutorials and chord sheets available for learning to play “Nothing Else Matters” on the ukulele. Websites like Ultimate Guitar and YouTube tutorials can be helpful resources for beginners.

In a world of strings so small and bright,
I strum the chords to a song in the night.
With my ukulele, simple and sweet,
I find a melody, a rhythm, a beat.

The frets like islands under my hand,
I play the chords, I understand.
Gently I pluck, I make it sing,
A song of joy, of hope, of everything.

Ukulele, you’re my trusted friend,
With your four strings, you help me mend.
A bridge to emotions, both near and far,
You’re the vessel of music, like a guiding star.

As I play “Nothing Else Matters” today,
On this uke, in my own special way,
I feel the love, the passion, the art,
A song that’s etched deep in my heart.

With each strum, the world fades away,
In the chords and lyrics, I find my way.
Oh, ukulele, you bring me peace,
As my soul and music gently release.

In your tiny body, you hold the key,
To unlock the melodies inside of me.
So, I’ll keep playing, with all my might,
On this ukulele, through day and night.