Master of Puppets entered the National Recording Registry in 2015. The Library of Congress selected Metallica’s 1986 album as one of that year’s recordings deemed culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.
The honor was notable because Master of Puppets became the first metal album added to the registry. Released on March 3, 1986, it was Metallica’s third studio album and arrived before the band became a mainstream stadium act. Its songs explore manipulation, war, addiction, religion, and political power, giving the album influence beyond its technical musicianship.
The album’s registry selection is sometimes confused with the date of its release or with the public announcement and ceremony that followed. The album came out in 1986, while its induction belongs to the 2015 registry class. It was one of 25 recordings selected that year, alongside works from artists including Santana, Billy Joel, and John Coltrane. The Library of Congress preserves recordings that reflect important parts of the nation’s recorded-sound heritage.