Metallica's Bold New Direction: The Story Behind 'Until It Sleeps
Metallica took a bold new direction with their hit single, which became their best-selling track. Despite fans' expectations, the band's commercial peak did not come from their classic 80s songs or their mega-selling Black Album hits. The demand for new material after their extensive world tour for The Black Album led Metallica to explore a fresh sound influenced by alternative rock and other genres.
The band began work on their sixth album in 1994, embracing a changing rock scene and incorporating diverse musical influences. The recording sessions for what would become Load took place in 1995, resulting in a more rock-inspired and bluesier sound. The final song to be written and recorded, Until It Sleeps, showcased a new side of Metallica with its moody atmosphere and massive chorus.
Initially inspired by Soundgarden's Fell On Black Days, Until It Sleeps delved into more reflective and somber themes, influenced by frontman James Hetfield's personal experiences, including the passing of his father. The song's lyrics revealed a more introspective side of Hetfield, exploring themes of loss and introspection. The track's music video, directed by Samuel Bayer, brought a surreal concept to life, showcasing a new visual direction for the band.
Despite initial confusion among fans about the band's new sound and image, Until It Sleeps proved to be a commercial success, reaching high chart positions in the US, UK, Sweden, and Australia. The single's success paved the way for the release of Load, which marked a significant departure for Metallica. Until It Sleeps remains the band's most commercially successful single to date, setting the stage for their evolving musical journey.