Miley Cyrus and Metallica Deliver an Emotional Rendition of “Nothing Else Matters” on The Howard Stern Show: A Powerful, Unforgettable Moment Born from Personal Loss and Resilience

When two worlds as different as pop and heavy metal collide, something truly extraordinary can happen. That’s exactly what unfolded when Miley Cyrus, daughter of country legend Billy Ray Cyrus, ventured into Metallica’s fiercely iconic musical territory.

Miley shocked both her fans and rock audiences when she boldly decided to cover Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters.” Known for her energetic pop hits and country influences, few expected her to dive deep into one of heavy metal’s most emotionally charged anthems.

Metallica, formed in the early 1980s, had already cemented its place in music history. Songs like “Enter Sandman” and “Nothing Else Matters” became anthems for generations, and the band’s resurgence through shows like Stranger Things only magnified their legacy.

Miley’s choice wasn’t random—it came during one of the most difficult periods of her life. Amid a crumbling marriage and the devastating loss of her home in California’s wildfires, “Nothing Else Matters” resonated with her on a deeply personal level.

In 2019, Miley delivered a raw, emotional performance of the song at the Glastonbury Festival. Her powerful voice, combined with the song’s introspective lyrics, created a haunting atmosphere that showcased her deep emotional connection to the material.

Not stopping there, she further honored Metallica by recording a new version for the tribute album The Blacklist in 2021. On this project, Miley collaborated with none other than Elton John, adding even more gravitas to her interpretation.

Elton John, an icon in his own right, accompanied Miley on piano, bringing a new elegance to the already beloved Metallica classic. His involvement bridged yet another musical generation, further elevating the emotional power of the song.

Even during the isolating months of the COVID-19 pandemic, Miley continued her journey with the song. In a remarkable moment on The Howard Stern Show in 2021, she performed it live, this time with Metallica’s James Hetfield.

James Hetfield’s participation in the performance was significant. Known for his commanding, tough persona, he openly discussed how “Nothing Else Matters” captured Metallica’s vulnerable side, something rarely revealed during the band’s thrashing early years.

Miley’s version peeled back yet another layer of the song’s emotion. Her husky, impassioned voice carried the pain, resilience, and longing embedded within the lyrics, connecting with listeners across genres and backgrounds in a way few covers achieve.

The Howard Stern performance became a major talking point. Audiences praised how the collaboration highlighted the universality of human emotion, no matter whether it came through country, pop, or heavy metal traditions.

Fans of both artists found themselves united in admiration. Metallica’s hardcore base appreciated Miley’s authenticity, while her pop and country followers discovered a new respect for the rawness and lyrical depth of Metallica’s songwriting.

Miley didn’t just sing the song; she lived inside it. Every word and every note reflected her personal struggles, making the performance feel like an emotional confession delivered under the intense spotlight of public expectation.

By bringing her own pain and healing journey into “Nothing Else Matters,” Miley created a rendition that transcended genres. The song’s themes of trust, love, and surrender took on even greater meaning through her vulnerable delivery.

Today, Miley Cyrus’ cover of “Nothing Else Matters” stands as one of the most unexpected and genuine musical fusions of the past decade—a true reminder that when artists dare to cross boundaries, they often create something timeless.