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Metal · 1991 · Intermediate

Nothing Else Matters

by Metallica
Key of Em69 BPMIntermediate

Chord Sheet

Key of Em · Progression: i–iv–VI–VII–III

Em
chord 1
Am
chord 2
C
chord 3
D
chord 4
G
chord 5
Chord Loop
Em — Am — C — D — G — ...
Key
Em
Tempo
69 BPM
Chords
5
Genre
Metal

🎵 Practice Tips for Nothing Else Matters

  • →Start at 35 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the Em→Am transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 69 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Nothing Else Matters by Metallica

Nothing Else Matters (1991) is a intermediate-level metal song that uses 5 chords: Em, Am, C, D, G in the key of Em. The chord progression is i–iv–VI–VII–III.

Chord Breakdown

  • Em — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • Am — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • C — major chord, bright and stable
  • D — major chord, bright and stable
  • G — major chord, bright and stable

About Nothing Else Matters

"Nothing Else Matters" by Metallica (released 1991) is one of the most recognizable metal songs ever recorded. Its 5-chord structure demonstrates how a simple progression can create an emotionally powerful and memorable piece of music. The combination of Em, Am, C creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Nothing Else Matters as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Nothing Else Matters, start by getting comfortable with each chord individually before trying to switch between them. The goal is to make each chord change automatic — your fingers should know where to go without you having to think about it. Practice the chord loop slowly with a metronome, and you'll be playing the full song within a few weeks.

Similar Songs (Same Key or Chords)

Let It Be
The Beatles
C – G – Am – F
Beginner
C · 75 BPM
Wonderwall
Oasis
Em – G – D – A7sus4
Beginner
Em · 87 BPM
Knockin' on Heaven's Door
Bob Dylan
G – D – Am – C
Beginner
G · 72 BPM
Stand By Me
Ben E. King
A – F#m – D – E
Beginner
A · 76 BPM
Perfect
Ed Sheeran
G – Em – C – D
Beginner
G · 96 BPM
Hallelujah
Leonard Cohen
C – Am – F – G – E7
Intermediate
C · 68 BPM
🎵 Metronome
Practice at 69 BPM
🎼 Tuner
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🎹 Piano
Play on virtual piano
🎸 Guitar
Play on fretboard

FAQ

Nothing Else Matters by Metallica — FAQ

What chords are in Nothing Else Matters by Metallica?
Nothing Else Matters uses the chords Em, Am, C, D, G in the key of Em. The progression follows a i–iv–VI–VII–III pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.
What key is Nothing Else Matters in?
Nothing Else Matters by Metallica is in the key of Em. The primary chords are Em, Am, C.
What is the tempo of Nothing Else Matters?
Nothing Else Matters is played at approximately 69 BPM. This slow tempo is great for beginners to focus on chord transitions. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 69 BPM.
What strumming pattern does Nothing Else Matters use?
Nothing Else Matters is typically in 4/4 time. A common strumming pattern is down-down-up-up-down-up (DDUUDU) or simplified all-down for beginners. Focus on getting chord changes smooth before adding strumming complexity.
How do I play Em chord on guitar?
Em is the main chord in Nothing Else Matters. See our chord library for the Em chord diagram with exact fingering.
Can I play Nothing Else Matters on piano?
Yes! Nothing Else Matters sounds great on piano. Play the chords Em, Am, C, D, G in root position or inversions. Left hand plays bass notes (root of each chord), right hand plays chord voicings. This is a intermediate-level arrangement.
Is Nothing Else Matters beginner-friendly?
Nothing Else Matters is rated Intermediate difficulty. The chord changes and rhythm require some practice.
What is the chord progression in Nothing Else Matters?
The main progression in Nothing Else Matters is Em – Am – C – D – G (Roman numeral: i–iv–VI–VII–III). This 5-chord pattern repeats throughout most of the song.
Can I transpose Nothing Else Matters to a different key?
Yes! Nothing Else Matters is in Em. To make it easier, try transposing to G or D using a capo. A capo changes your effective key while keeping the same chord shapes. Use our Transpose Tool to convert all chord names automatically.
What genre is Nothing Else Matters?
Nothing Else Matters by Metallica is a Metal song from 1991. Its 5-chord progression (Em, Am, C, D, G) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.