The Meaning Behind The Song: Fade To Black by Metallica
Metallica’s “Fade To Black” was the first ballad released by the band on their second studio album, Ride The Lightning. It was written by lead vocalist/rhythm guitarist James Hetfield, and those who know the song and the band can agree on one thing- it’s not just a song.
A Song Written Out Of Depression and Isolation
The song’s lyrics reflect a feeling of hopelessness and depression, and fans of the band and the song agree that those dark emotions are not just some poetic license used to enhance the story the song tells.
James Hetfield wrote the lyrics of “Fade To Black” when he was feeling isolated and depressed. He was 19 at the time and was struggling with his life and his musical career. He felt like he had nowhere to go, nobody to talk to, and was losing his mind. That’s when he picked up his pen and wrote the lyrics that would portray the dark thoughts that were taking over his mind.
The Storyline of “Fade to Black”
“Fade to Black” starts quietly, with a guitar riff that sets the tone for the song. It’s a somber and melancholic melody that prepares the listener for what’s to come. The lyrics start with the words “Life, it seems, will fade away,” and sets the stage for the dark story that unfolds.
The song tells the tale of a person who has come to a point in their life where nothing seems to make sense, and they are searching for a way out. They’ve lost all hope and feel like they have nothing left to live for. They question the reasons for why they’re alive and why they keep going.
The lyrics go on to describe how life has lost its joy and how feelings of happiness, love, and peace have faded away. The song’s chorus reflects on how the world around them seems to be fading away too, leaving them with nothing but darkness and despair.
Towards the end of the song, the music and the lyrics both become more intense, leading up to a final, powerful guitar solo. It’s a moment of cathartic release, as if the person telling the story has found a way to let go of their dark thoughts and emotions.
The Impact of “Fade to Black”
“Fade to Black” was a turning point for Metallica. It showed the world that they were not just a thrash metal band, but that they could also write and perform power ballads. The song made an impact on fans, as it spoke to a generation of young people who felt lost and alone. It was a song that gave people permission to feel their emotions and to express them in a way that was honest and raw.
The song’s lyrics have had a significant impact on people, and it’s an anthem for those who feel like they’ve hit their lowest point. There have been multiple accounts of people who have come forward and explained how the song helped them get through tough times in their lives. For instance, an article published by Metal Injection reports that several musicians have said that “Fade to Black” has had a profound impact on their lives and music.
Dave Mustaine, the founder of the band Megadeth, said that “Fade to Black” was a significant influence on his music. “It broke down a barrier for me,” he said. “It made me realize that you could be loud and heavy and aggressive, but you could also be poetic and emotional.”
Slash, the guitarist for Guns N’ Roses, also talked about the impact “Fade to Black” had on him. He said the song was “the perfect rock ballad,” and that it was one of the songs that helped him become a musician.
The Legacy of “Fade to Black”
“Fade to Black” has become one of the most significant songs in Metallica’s discography and has left a lasting legacy. It’s been covered by numerous other artists, including Machine Head, Disturbed, and Apocalyptica.
The song has also become a staple in Metallica’s live performances. When the opening riff of “Fade to Black” starts, the entire audience erupts in applause, showing just how significant this song has become in the world of rock music.
In conclusion, “Fade to Black” is not just a song- it’s a masterpiece. The emotions and darkness that were put into the song by James Hetfield have resonated with fans for over three decades. It tells a story of despair, isolation, and the search for a way out- a story that has touched millions of people worldwide. With its powerful lyrics and haunting guitar solo, it’s clear why “Fade to Black” is considered one of the most significant and influential songs of all time.
