The Lasting Impact of “Nothing Else Matters”: William Joseph’s Cinematic Piano Rendition and Metallica’s Genre-Defying Influence
William Joseph’s cinematic piano rendition of Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters,” known as Feels the Rain, has captivated a global audience, climbing beyond 40 million views on YouTube. His arrangement reshapes the iconic rock ballad into a haunting piano performance that preserves the song’s emotional depth while highlighting Joseph’s expressive musicality.
The video places Joseph in a rain-drenched visual setting that reflects the reflective and atmospheric tone of the music. Each swell, pause, and shift in dynamics feels carefully crafted, pulling listeners into a world that feels both deeply personal and powerfully cinematic.
What truly distinguishes this version is Joseph’s balance of technical precision and emotional nuance. His right hand delivers soaring, fragile phrases while the left hand anchors the harmony with warm resonance, allowing the original melody to shine through in a fresh and visually striking context.
The success of Feels the Rain reflects the timelessness of “Nothing Else Matters.” Decades after its release, the song continues to transcend genres, inspiring countless piano adaptations, classical arrangements, and instrumental covers across the world.
When Metallica introduced “Nothing Else Matters” on their 1991 Black Album, it marked a new emotional direction for the band. James Hetfield’s vulnerable writing and heartfelt delivery opened the door to a wider audience, making the song one of the most celebrated ballads in rock history.
Its influence has only grown, inspiring genre-spanning covers from artists such as Miley Cyrus with Elton John, Phoebe Bridgers, Dave Gahan, and Chris Stapleton. Each interpretation brings new life to the song, proving its extraordinary adaptability and enduring cultural impact.
Albums like Scott D. Davis’s Pianotarium have further introduced the piece to classical and instrumental audiences, showcasing how seamlessly the composition translates into reflective, piano-driven soundscapes.
William Joseph’s Feels the Rain stands as a moving tribute that effortlessly bridges classical elegance with rock emotion. As new generations continue to rediscover and reinterpret the piece, the legacy of Metallica’s original remains firmly rooted in music history—timeless, adaptable, and endlessly inspiring.
