King Nothing

"King Nothing"
Song
B-side	"Ain't My Bitch (live)

"King Nothing" is a song by Metallica in their 1996 album Load. The lyrics refer to people who devote their whole lives to earning money, until one day they realize ("Then it all crashes down") that all the money has gotten them nothing worthwhile. A second meaning may refer to people who have spent their lives wishing ("Wish I might/Wish I may/You wish your life away") rather than earning the things they desire.

The song is an obvious change from Metallica's thrash metal style, switching into a more hard rock/metal style. The song starts on a bass riff which develops into the main riff of the song. A single of "King Nothing" was released in the United States. It included a live version of the song "Ain't My Bitch", which is also on the album Load. A music video also accompanied the song.

At the end of the song, the words "Off to never-never land" can be heard. This is a nod to one of Metallica's most famous songs, "Enter Sandman", which also features these words. The song also features a similar structure.

Demo

The demo of "King Nothing" was called "Load" (hence the title of Metallica's 6th album "Load") and was recorded in Lars' home studio 'Dungeon' by James and Lars on November 30, 1994. Possible origin : Nothing King was part of a lyric from a Pete Townshend song in 1981- " I am an animal" from his Empty Glass lp.

Track Listing

1. King Nothing
2. Ain't My Bitch (Live)