A Pianist Turned Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters” Into a Cinematic Phenomenon

William Joseph’s sweeping piano reimagining of Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters,” released under the title Feels the Rain, has resonated deeply with audiences around the globe, surpassing 40 million views on YouTube. His interpretation preserves the emotional heart of the original while reshaping it into a haunting, cinematic piano piece that showcases his sensitivity, restraint, and refined musical expression.

In the accompanying visual, Joseph performs within a dim, rain-drenched setting that mirrors the song’s reflective mood. The imagery moves in quiet harmony with the music, where every rise in intensity and every moment of silence feels carefully considered, pulling the viewer into a space that feels both personal and expansive at the same time.

What truly distinguishes this version is Joseph’s mastery of dynamics and touch. His right hand traces fragile, floating melodies with precision, while his left hand anchors the piece with deep, resonant chords. The balance between the two honors Metallica’s original composition while expanding its emotional range through subtle classical textures.

The massive response to Feels the Rain highlights the enduring emotional reach of “Nothing Else Matters.” Once a surprising departure from traditional metal norms, the song has evolved into a universal expression of vulnerability, inviting countless reinterpretations from musicians across genres and generations.

When Metallica released “Nothing Else Matters” as part of their 1992 self-titled “Black Album,” it marked a pivotal moment in the band’s evolution. James Hetfield’s introspective lyrics and stripped-back arrangement revealed a raw honesty that allowed the song to transcend heavy metal and connect with a far broader audience.

Through the years, artists from dramatically different musical worlds have embraced the song’s emotional core. Performances by Miley Cyrus with Elton John, Phoebe Bridgers, Dave Gahan, and Chris Stapleton each bring a unique emotional perspective, proving the composition’s remarkable flexibility and timeless relevance.

Instrumental interpretations, including Scott D. Davis’s Pianotarium project, further demonstrate the song’s adaptability. These piano-focused arrangements strip the piece down to its melodic essence, allowing its emotional honesty and structural elegance to shine within a classical and ambient framework.

With Feels the Rain, William Joseph offers more than a cover — he creates a meaningful connection between rock and classical traditions. His performance ensures that Metallica’s influence continues to ripple outward, inviting new listeners to discover fresh emotional depth in a song built on trust, vulnerability, and sincerity.