10 Things You Didn't Know About Metallica
2. Sad But True was originally supposed to be faster
Most fans who mock Metallica for selling out with the Black Album most likely haven’t heard “Sad But True.” For as much as songs like “The Unforgiven” or “Nothing Else Matters” seem poppy by comparison, this is one of the heaviest riffs of the band’s career, with a slow chugging tempo that makes it feel like a monster emerging from the depths of Hell.
In fact, the initial thrash version of the song would most likely be one of the biggest wastes of potential in the band’s career had it seen release.
Though the song didn’t find a home until the Black Album, the detuned riff that Hetfield plays has its origins all the way back in the time of Master of Puppets. When compiling material for the Black Album, Bob Rock was intrigued by the song, but couldn’t get over its tempo.
As opposed to the gargantuan sound we know today, the early demos are much faster, with the vocals being way too rushed and the song’s swagger getting neutered.
As the band toyed with it during the session, Rock suggested that the band slow it down to a midtempo groove, which made the entire riff much more meaty and Hetfield’s melody flowing in a more natural way. Millions of fans were not happy with the Black Album’s changes, but this is one of the few instances where change can be a very good thing.