The Enduring Power of “Nothing Else Matters”: William Joseph’s Cinematic Piano Tribute

William Joseph’s cinematic piano rendition of Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters,” released under the title Feels the Rain, has resonated with millions, surpassing 40 million views on YouTube. His arrangement preserves the emotional weight of the original while reshaping it into a deeply atmospheric and haunting piano piece that showcases both his expressive sensitivity and his refined musicality.

In the video, Joseph plays against a dark, rain-drenched visual setting that mirrors the contemplative nature of the piece. Every dynamic shift and lingering pause seems crafted to pull the listener deeper into the mood, creating a performance that feels simultaneously personal and cinematic.

What truly elevates this interpretation is Joseph’s remarkable control and tonal nuance. His right hand brings out fragile, floating melodies, while his left hand anchors the performance with rich, resonant harmonies—honoring Metallica’s foundation while expanding it with sweeping emotional color.

The widespread acclaim surrounding Feels the Rain reflects the timeless strength of “Nothing Else Matters.” Once a metal ballad that surprised the genre, the song has evolved into a universal musical language, inspiring pianists, orchestras, and instrumentalists to create versions that cross boundaries and styles.

When Metallica introduced “Nothing Else Matters” on their 1992 self-titled “Black Album,” it marked a turning point in their artistic identity. James Hetfield’s introspective lyrics and stripped-back vulnerability opened a new emotional space for the band, allowing the song to resonate far beyond the world of heavy metal.

Since then, performers from every corner of the musical spectrum have reimagined it. Covers by Miley Cyrus with Elton John, Phoebe Bridgers, Dave Gahan, and Chris Stapleton each bring unique character, proving how adaptable and emotionally elastic the song has become over the decades.

Instrumental albums such as Scott D. Davis’s Pianotarium further highlight the song’s versatility, presenting reflective piano arrangements that emphasize its lyrical simplicity and melodic strength within a classical and ambient framework.

With Feels the Rain, William Joseph offers not just a cover but a deeply felt tribute that connects the emotional worlds of rock and classical music. Metallica’s enduring influence shines through each note, as new generations continue to reinterpret the song’s message of openness and trust, securing its lasting presence in music history.